Childbirth is supposed to be a natural process, and in many situations, it is. However, there are situations where modern medical interventions are needed to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and baby. One of the most common of these interventions is Pitocin, which is used to induce labor. Unfortunately, while the drug can be beneficial, its use also carries significant dangers and risks. An Illinois birth injury lawyer explains some of those risks below.
Reasons to Induce Labor
When a pregnant woman is ready to give birth, her body releases the hormone oxytocin, which stimulates the muscles of the uterus to contract. The hormone also increases the production of prostaglandins, which increases contractions of the uterus. There are situations where a doctor feels that the need to induce labor is necessary. Reasons can include: