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. 2004 Spring;13(2):6-10.
doi: 10.1624/105812404X109474.

#1: labor begins on its own

Debby Amis  1 , Ina May Gaskin
Affiliations

#1: labor begins on its own

Debby Amis et al. J Perinat Educ. 2004 Spring.

Abstract

In this position paper-one of six care practice papers published by Lamaze International and reprinted here with permission-the benefit of allowing labor to begin on its own is discussed and presented as an evidence-based practice that helps promote, protect, and support normal birth. The paper is written for childbearing women and their families. The accompanying commentary-written by a leading home-birth midwife and prominent national and international speaker on maternity care-describes further evidence of the disadvantages of inducing labor. The indications for and risks of induction are also explored. Lamaze International recommends that, unless there is a medical indication for induction, labor should be allowed to begin on its own.

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