Elective induction prior to 39 weeks has been shown to increase the length of labor, complications of labor and cesarean section and operative delivery rates compared to women in spontaneous labor. Substantial data exist showing that infants born by scheduled cesarean section have higher rates of respiratory problems and other complications. In addition, elective deliveries (either by CS or induction) between 37 0/7 and 38 6/7 weeks have been shown to increase neonatal admissions to special care nurseries. Lastly, induction of labor is typically less efficient than spontaneous labor, tying up labor and delivery schedules.
