American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
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Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. · Oct 2019
Meta Analysis Comparative StudyElective induction of labor at 39 weeks compared with expectant management: a meta-analysis of cohort studies.
Elective induction of labor at 39 weeks among low-risk nulliparous women has reduced the chance of cesarean and other adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in a randomized trial, although its clinical effectiveness in nonresearch settings remains uncertain. ⋯ This meta-analysis of 6 cohort studies demonstrates that elective induction of labor at 39 weeks, compared with expectant management beyond that gestational age, was associated with a significantly lower risk of cesarean delivery, maternal peripartum infection, and perinatal adverse outcomes, including respiratory morbidity, intensive care unit admission, and mortality.