O60-O75: Complications of labour and delivery

O61: Failed induction of labour

Failed induction of labour is a medical condition that occurs when attempts to stimulate the onset of labour artificially do not result in the progression to active labour, despite adequate stimulation. This can be due to various factors, which may include the cervix not effacing (thinning) or dilating (opening) as expected, the baby not descending into the pelvis, or contractions not becoming regular or strong enough. Women experiencing failed induction of labour may not exhibit any symptoms different from a normal labour induction, however, the lack of progression to active labour over an extended time can indicate this issue. It primarily affects the reproductive system in females who are at term or post-term in their pregnancy. It's important to understand that the disease progression can vary, depending largely on the individual's health conditions and the nature of the pregnancy. However, failed induction of labour is predominantly characterized by unsuccessful attempts to initiate and/or sustain labour using medication or mechanical methods.