Induction of labor is a medical procedure used to stimulate contractions in a pregnant person’s uterus before natural labor begins. This can be necessary for various reasons, such as when the pregnancy has gone past the due date, if there are health concerns for the mother or baby, or if the water has broken without contractions starting. Methods of induction may include the use of medications like oxytocin or prostaglandins, or physical methods such as membrane stripping or breaking the water. The goal is to ensure a safe delivery while minimizing risks to both the mother and the baby.