A Comparative Study of Induction of Labour Vs Expectant Management in Pregnant Females from 39 weeks to 41 weeks of Pregnancy

Background: The present study assessed the maternal and foetal outcomes of both induced and spontaneous labour in 39 to 41 weeks pregnant women. Material & Methods: A comparative study was conducted among 200 women including 100 women in spontaneous labour group and 100 women in induced labour group. Maternal and fetal outcomes like antenatal complications, duration of labour, mode of delivery, indication for caesarean delivery, maternal complications, meconium staining of liquor, birth weight, APGAR score and NICU admissions were studied. Results: Mean maternal age was similar among both study groups. Majority of patients in both groups had gestational age between 39 to 40 weeks. Antenatal complications like PROM, oligohydroamnios etc. were more prevalent in induced women. Caesarean section rate was significantly high among the induced group in both nulliparous and multiparous women as compared to spontaneous labour group. Most common indication of caesarean section was fetal distress in both groups. Birth weights of babies were similar in the study groups. Induction was not found to affect meconium staining of liquor and APGAR score of babies and NICU admission rates. Conclusion: Although induction of labour increases the odds of caesarean section, it has no adverse effects on mother or baby. Hence induction of labour can be recommended as a safe technique for pregnant women with delayed gestation.