At What Week of Pregnancy Can Induction of Labor Be Considered?

Due to the varying conditions of each pregnant woman and fetus, the entire process from the cervix dilation to full dilation and the subsequent smooth delivery of the baby takes a relatively long time, greatly testing the endurance and physical strength of the pregnant woman. Normally, a pregnancy is considered full-term at 37 weeks and oxytocin can be administered for delivery. However, the decision to use oxytocin depends on the condition of the fetus, pregnant woman, and amniotic fluid. The duration after oxytocin administration before natural birth varies from person to person, and not every woman will deliver smoothly on the same day after oxytocin administration. Some may take two or three days.

The best approach to delivery is to let nature take its course and not to rush it, as this can be detrimental to the health of the child. Methods for inducing labor in pregnant women include:

During showering, use warm water to shower, especially rinsing the protruding abdomen repeatedly from the upper part of the stomach. While rinsing, gently stroke the abdomen with the palm of your hand and talk to the fetus. Adjust the bathroom temperature to be comfortable and increase the frequency of showers to two or three times a day as appropriate. However, ensure that the water temperature is not too hot or too cold, and keep each shower to no more than 15 minutes.

Stimulating the nipples and areolas can trigger the release of endogenous oxytocin, leading to uterine contractions and serving as an alternative to oxytocin administration for inducing labor. This method can be started at 39 weeks of pregnancy to prevent delayed pregnancy. The technique involves gently stimulating the nipples and areolas with a warm, damp towel for one hour, alternating sides every 15 minutes, three times a day. Stimulation should be paused during contractions and resumed when they disappear.

Select a comfortable time in the morning and afternoon each day to walk briskly in a garden or other outdoor environment with fresh air for about 30 minutes. Gradually increase the frequency of walks as tolerated, without causing fatigue.

Labor-inducing injections or oxytocin drugs usually have no side effects on generally healthy pregnant women. However, they should be avoided in cases of significant cephalopelvic disproportion, abnormal fetal position (such as transverse lie), history of cesarean section, or previous myomectomy to prevent uterine rupture. The effects of oxytocin on the organs of pregnant women are minimal at typical dosages and can be negligible. However, if oxytocin is used in large dosages, it may cause elevated blood pressure, accelerated pulse, and water retention. Therefore, it is crucial for doctors to conduct a comprehensive examination to determine whether a pregnant woman can safely use labor-inducing medications.