Induce at 41 weeks, NHS told

PREGNANT women should be induced at 41 weeks and not 42 to cut the risks to themselves and their baby, according to new draft guidelines.

Induction is offered on the NHS between 41 and 42 weeks, but recent evidence shows babies are more likely to die at 42 weeks or beyond. The average pregnancy lasts 40 weeks.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has published draft guidelines saying women should be induced once they reach 41 weeks.

Nice looked at a range of evidence including one large study that was stopped early as more babies were dying at 42 weeks. Complications can include placenta breakdown and womb infections.

Nice spokesman Dr Paul Chrisp said: “It’s vitally important that women are offered advice based on the latest evidence.”