What are potential complications of induction of labor?

Induction of labor can indeed lead to chorioamnionitis, which is an infection of the membranes surrounding the fetus and the amniotic fluid. This complication can arise due to various factors associated with labor induction, including the use of internal monitoring devices, prolonged rupture of membranes, or the administration of certain medications used to induce labor. The risk increases because the process can create pathways for bacteria to enter the sterile environment of the uterus, especially if induction is expedited or if there is any delay in the progress of labor.

Chorioamnionitis is significant because it can impact both maternal and neonatal outcomes, potentially leading to increased rates of cesarean delivery, neonatal infection, or respiratory problems in the newborn. Proper monitoring and management during labor induction are crucial to minimize the risk of this and other associated complications.

While other potential complications like uterine tachysystole, hypotension, and water toxicity can occur during labor induction, the association with chorioamnionitis and the potential severity of its consequences make it a critical consideration in the context of labor induction.