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Labor induction in adolescent pregnancies - A scoping review
Jakub Staniczek1, Maisa Manasar-Dyrbuś1, Magda Rybak-Krzyszkowska2
1Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
Summary
Labor induction is less common in adolescent pregnancies but shows higher success rates. Despite risks like low birth weight, adolescents have more vaginal births and fewer C-sections, highlighting the need for tailored induction guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Adolescent pregnancies present unique challenges impacting maternal and neonatal outcomes.
- Understanding the role and implications of labor induction in this demographic is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the need for labor induction in pregnancies among individuals aged 19 years and younger.
- To identify and synthesize existing evidence on labor induction in adolescent pregnancies.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review adhering to PRISMA-ScR guidelines was conducted.
- A comprehensive search identified 8 eligible studies involving 119,153 participants.
- Data on maternal characteristics, delivery mode, and neonatal outcomes were extracted and synthesized qualitatively and quantitatively.
Main Results:
- Labor induction was less frequent in adolescents (18.1%) compared to adults (24.4%) but demonstrated higher success rates.
- Adolescents had higher rates of spontaneous vaginal delivery (85.0%) and lower rates of cesarean sections (13.8%).
- However, adolescent pregnancies showed increased risks of low birth weight and stillbirth, alongside higher maternal anemia prevalence.
Conclusions:
- Labor induction in adolescent pregnancies is associated with favorable delivery outcomes but carries higher risks for complications.
- Further research is essential to establish evidence-based timing and indications for labor induction in adolescents.
- Tailored approaches are needed to optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes in this population.
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