Researchers discovered that inducing labor after 37 weeks of pregnancy can reduce the risk of perinatal death without increasing the probability of caesarean section. Babies delivered to induced moms, on the other hand, are more likely to be admitted to a special-care infant unit. They also find that induction increases the chances of requiring a blood transfusion and receiving a pain medication during delivery. Inducing labor may also increase your baby's risk of respiratory problems at birth. For example, babies born by induction are more likely to require oxygen therapy at birth. They also have a higher rate of jaundice and low blood sugar levels than infants born spontaneously. Induction of labor can be useful in cases where there is evidence of fetal distress or maternal medical complications such as hemorrhage. It can also be an option for pregnant women who want to postpone the birth of their child for a few days or months. However, induction carries with it its own set of risks. It can be successful even when used electively, which means that many women have labor induced when not necessary. This adds to the risks associated with the procedure. The benefits of delaying childbirth until after 37 weeks of pregnancy usually outweigh the risks of induction. If you decide to induce labor, make sure you discuss this decision with your doctor. He or she will be able to help you determine whether induction is right for you.