Scheduled delivery: when is it advisable?

Although nature is wise and we should always try for a spontaneous, natural birth, sometimes problems get in our way and mean that we need to take a different path.

We’re also at a point socially where some expectant mums decide to schedule their delivery without respecting each baby’s natural timetable.

Indeed, if it can be justified on medical grounds, there are times when a scheduled childbirth is inevitable. Do you know in what cases it’s recommended?

• If the mother or baby are at risk due to diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes or preeclampsia.
• If the baby is not gaining weight due to problems with the placenta.
• In case of preterm premature rupture of membranes, as this increases the risk of infection, which could affect mother and baby (chorioamnionitis).
• In case of rupture of membranes at term, but if labour fails to progress for the aforementioned reason.
• If the baby is too large.
• If the pregnancy goes beyond week 40, as the risk for the baby seems to increase considerably.
• A multiple pregnancy, although caesarean delivery is suggested in most cases.

A scheduled delivery also has certain drawbacks:

• The rate of caesarean sections is higher.
• Labour is longer.
• The contractions are more painful.
• Forceps are required more often.
• The medicalisation required for induction can result in side effects for the mother and baby.

The decision must be taken by the pregnant mum and her doctor depending on the circumstances of each pregnancy. Is this the case for you? Are you going to have a scheduled delivery? Tell us about your experience!