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When do doctors insist on inducing labor?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 35 weeks a three days pregnant and my growth scan results are HC- 319.4, AC- 289.3, and FL-64.1. The doctor wants to induce it at 37 weeks. Please let me know your advice.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Obinna Ugwuoke

Education:

Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Professional Bio:

Dr. Obinna Ugwuoke is a dedicated Medical Professional who achieved a Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the West African College of Surgeons in 2022. With three years of clinical experience. He contributes his expertise to NAF Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria. Driven by passion and skill, he continues to make significant strides in women's healthcare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

37 weeks is a term, and over 90 percent of babies would not have any issues if delivered by then. So, if a pregnancy has any abnormality that is under control, it is not advisable for the pregnancy to go beyond 37 weeks. That means labor should be induced at 37 weeks as the chances of the baby coming out healthy are very high.

Your case is a case of fetal growth restriction. Most fetal growth restriction (FGR) is caused by placental abnormalities (occasionally a failing placenta) and this can lead to intrauterine fetal death. This is why, if the cause of FGR is under control, delivery should be effected at the earliest safe period which is 37 weeks for pregnancy. However, if it is out of control, delivery can be effected earlier than 37 weeks and appropriate neonatal support can be given to the baby.

So, I strongly recommend induction at 37 weeks as there is nothing additional significant to benefit going beyond 37 weeks, but there is a possibility of losing everything. Your baby will be fine.

The Probable causes: FGR secondary to uteroplacental insufficiency.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At February 11, 2025
Reviewed At February 11, 2025

Education:

Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Professional Bio:

Dr. Obinna Ugwuoke is a dedicated Medical Professional who achieved a Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the West African College of Surgeons in 2022. With three years of clinical experience. He contributes his expertise to NAF Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria. Driven by passion and skill, he continues to make significant strides in women's healthcare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Professional Bio:

Dr. Obinna Ugwuoke is a dedicated Medical Professional who achieved a Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the West African College of Surgeons in 2022. With three years of clinical experience. He contributes his expertise to NAF Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria. Driven by passion and skill, he continues to make significant strides in women's healthcare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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