Maternal obesity and induction of labor

Abstract

Due to the short-term and long-term implications of an unsuccessful induction in an obese primigravida, we recommend that induction of labor should only be undertaken for strict obstetric indications after careful consideration by an experienced clinician.

Influence of maternal obesity on Bishop Score and failed induction of labour: A retrospective cohort study in a regional tertiary centre

“…Despite this, there is still a significantly increased risk of failed IOL associated with maternal obesity. No previous work exploring BMI and BS considering failed IOL has controlled for confounding factors in the maternal history or IOL process …”

“…This study further confirms that a low BS (<5) is associated with an increased need for multiple methods of IOL, use of epidural anaesthesia and increased CS rates . However, this study is the first to show that BS <5 is associated with an increase in failed IOL in obese women.…”

“…Consistent with previous literature, obese women were found to have a lower mean BS and increased rates of BS <5, compared to normal BMI women . However when adjusting for confounding factors like parity, gestation and indication for IOL, obesity did not independently increase the risk of a low BS.…”

“…Two studies have evaluated IOL in normal weight, overweight and obese women, concluding a more difficult IOL process and higher rate of CS in obese women . One of these studies noted that a BS >5 was most predictive of a successful IOL, regardless of weight class .…”

Management of prolonged pregnancy by induction with a Foley catheter

“…Nulliparity and obesity increase the risk for prolongation of pregnancy, but they are also independent risk factors for cesarean delivery after induced labor . Low Bishop scores are associated with high rates of induction failure and operative delivery , also seen in our study.…”