A randomized control trial of elective induction at 40 weeks and 41 weeks to prevent prolonged pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Prolonged pregnancy is a major cause of perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality and also a source of significant anxiety to the pregnant woman and family. Data has shown that the lowest incidence of perinatal morbidity and mortality is between 39 and 40 weeks gestation. A policy of routine induction of labour at 40 weeks could further reduce perinatal mortality and morbidity without increasing maternal anxiety and cesarean section rate . OBJECTIVES: The overall objective of the study is to compare obstetrics and perinatal outcomes of induction of labour at 40 weeks versus 41 weeks in healthy woman with low risk singleton pregnancy.