Study: Induced at 39 weeks lowers complications avoids C-section

A recently published study suggests that health first-time mothers who are induced at 39 weeks can lower the risk of several complications, including helping avoid a cesarean section.

The study reverses the common belief that induction may increase the chance of a C-section.

“We find that at 39 weeks is when the baby is at optimal health,” said Dr. Daniel Aronson, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Del Sol Medical Center.

Aronson said the study showed that after 39 weeks, some of the factors that lead to a c-section; such as fetal stress, fetal distress during labor, can be caused by decreased fluid that is around the baby.

The fluid meant to protect the baby decreases at 39 weeks.

“Babies gain a half pound per week after 39 weeks, so we have a smaller baby, easier to deliver naturally and with decreased stress,” Aronson said.

“In avoiding a c-section, you’re avoiding a major surgery. We’ve taking a physiologic event, which is having a baby, and exchanging that for a major surgical operation.”

To read the entire study, click here.