BACKGROUND:

Induction of labor is a maneuver indicated when there is a greater risk of continuing the pregnancy, than interrupting it. The induction of labor faces new pressures that make it necessary for the doctor to be permanently updated. In recent years, clinical protocols of greater efficiency and safety have been developed, which have made this procedure more accessible.

OBJECTIVE:

To present an updated consensus and to analyze the different aspects related to the labor induction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

A Delphi-type of consensus was conducted with participation of active obstetricians and gynecologists specialists from thirteen national institutions. Major clinical-oriented topics of induction of labor were addressed.

CONCLUSIONS:

To induce labor, it is necessary that at least the following situations coexist: to establish with certainty that the procedure offers the best outcome for the mother and her child, to confirm the gestational age, to make a complete obstetric evaluation and to have the infrastructure Necessary to deal with possible complications. There are several options to induce labor, although in recent years the indication of prostaglandin analogues (misoprostol) has become the most common option worldwide. The specialist must make an individualized evaluation of the patient and the fetus, in order to rule out situations that may endanger the health of any of them. The most common complication of labor induction is tachysystole, which can be complicated by premature placental abruption, uterine rupture and acute fetal distress, requiring urgent attention. Controlled-release vaginal ovules are the only option available to withdraw the stimulus with dinoprostone or misoprostol in the presence of adverse effects.