Abstract

SANTOS, Inês  and  RAMALHO, Carla. Elective induction of labor at 39 weeks vs expectant management of pregnancy: a systematic review. Acta Obstet Ginecol Port [online]. 2016, vol.10, n.3, pp.215-227. ISSN 1646-5830.

Objective: We aimed to compare elective induction of labor at 39 weeks with expectant management of noncomplicated singleton pregnancies. Material and methods: We performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis with the articles which had the same methodology. Results: Regarding the cesarean section rate at 39 weeks, most studies reported an equal or lower frequency in the elective induction group. Overall, maternal and neonatal complications were not higher after elective induction, with studies associating it to a lower frequency of some adverse outcomes. However, elective induction was associated with a higher rate of shoulder dystocia, epidural use and an increase in labor duration and cost. Conclusion: Elective induction of labor at 39 weeks, when compared to expectant management, has not been associated with a significantly higher rate of caesarean sections. However, there's a lack of evidence to change the current recommendations on induction of labor.

Keywords : Elective; Labor, induced; Expectant management; 39 weeks, “Pregnancy Outcome”.

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