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Table 2-2

Induction of Labor: Indications and Contraindicationsa

IndicationsContraindications

  • Abruptio placentae, chorioamnionitis, gestational hypertension

  • Premature rupture of membranes, postterm pregnancy, preeclampsia, eclampsia

  • Maternal medical conditions (eg, diabetes mellitus, renal disease, chronic pulmonary disease, chronic hypertension)

  • Fetal compromise (eg, severe fetal growth restriction, isoimmunization)

  • Fetal demise

  • Elective inductions for gestational age >39 wk

  • Vasa previa or complete placenta previa

  • Transverse fetal lie

  • Infection—active genital HSV, high viral load HIV

  • Pelvic structural deformities

  • Umbilical cord prolapse

  • Advanced cervical cancer

Abbreviations: HIV, human immunodeficiency virus; HSV, herpes simplex virus.


aAdapted with permission from American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Practice Bulletins—Obstetrics. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 107: induction of labor. Obstet Gynecol. 2009;114(2):386-397. (Reaffirmed 2019). Copyright © 2009 by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.