Induction at 38 weeks for large-for-gestational-age or macrosomic fetuses decreases the incidence of cesarean delivery: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Induction of labor between 38 0/7 to 38 4/7 weeks for suspected LGA (EFW >90th percentile) or macrosomic fetuses may be a reasonable management option, as it is associated with significant reductions in cesarean delivery, and a potential reduction in shoulder dystocia, and neonatal fractures, compared to expectant management. As the strongest evidence derives from induction at 38 0/7 to 38 4/7 weeks, counseling should emphasize this gestational window. Approximately 25 inductions of labor for EFW >90th percentile at 38 0/7 to 38 4/7 weeks would be required to prevent 1 cesarean delivery.

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Publication Details

Journal
American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM
Published
2026-01-21
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajogmf.2026.101897
Primary Topic
Gestational Diabetes Research and Management
Type
article
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article

Induction at 38 weeks for large-for-gestational-age or macrosomic fetuses decreases the incidence of cesarean delivery: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Ilaria Paladino, Vincenzo Berghella
American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM
Gestational Diabetes Research and Management
article

Induction at 38 weeks for large-for-gestational-age or macrosomic fetuses decreases the incidence of cesarean delivery: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Ilaria Paladino, Vincenzo Berghella
article en

Abstract

Induction of labor between 38 0/7 to 38 4/7 weeks for suspected LGA (EFW >90th percentile) or macrosomic fetuses may be a reasonable management option, as it is associated with significant reductions in cesarean delivery, and a potential reduction in shoulder dystocia, and neonatal fractures, compared to expectant management. As the strongest evidence derives from induction at 38 0/7 to 38 4/7 weeks, counseling should emphasize this gestational window. Approximately 25 inductions of labor for EFW >90th percentile at 38 0/7 to 38 4/7 weeks would be required to prevent 1 cesarean delivery.

American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFMVol. 8(4)
Thomas Jefferson University (US), Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico (IT)
Decent work and economic growth
Openalex Percentile: Top 83%
Gestational Diabetes Research and Management
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