Can induction of labor be performed at 29 weeks?

Induced abortion is a method of terminating pregnancy using surgical procedures or medications. Generally, at 29 weeks of gestation, induction can usually be performed if there are no contraindications to labor induction. However, if contraindications exist, induction is not recommended to avoid potential complications. The details are as follows:

Induction is generally most suitable between 10 and 24 weeks of pregnancy—equivalent to 3–6 months. Although 29 weeks falls outside the optimal window for induction due to advanced gestational age, it remains feasible in the absence of contraindications. At this stage, the placenta is mature and the uterus is relatively sensitive; thus, labor-inducing medications can effectively stimulate uterine contractions to terminate the pregnancy. However, because the fetal tissue is larger at 29 weeks, retained products of conception may occur after induction. Therefore, some women may require a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure post-induction to remove residual placental or fetal membrane tissues from the uterine cavity and reduce the risk of infection.

For women with contraindications to induction, labor induction at 29 weeks is generally not advised. Conditions such as placenta previa, vasa previa, umbilical cord prolapse, relative or absolute cephalopelvic disproportion, or abnormal fetal presentation significantly increase risks. Attempting induction under these circumstances may lead to severe hemorrhage, birth canal injury, amniotic fluid embolism, and even endanger the mother's life. In such cases, emergency cesarean section may be considered to save the mother’s life.

Induced abortion carries inherent risks and should only be performed at正规 medical facilities under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals to minimize complications. After the procedure, regular monitoring is essential. If increased vaginal bleeding or severe abdominal pain occurs, immediate medical attention is required.