>This may seem like a contrived bf problem, but a women who is induced to
>bring on labor will be more likely to choose painrelievers, which can
>interfere with bf.
>Question: A women  is fullterm, slightly dialated (1cm.), engaged, has no
>contractions, but is slowly leaking amniotic fluids. If the fetus is not in
>distress, she is careful with hygiene, & is checking for temperature how
>long can she safely put off induction?

Women with prelabour rupture of membranes at gestational ages of 34 weeks
or more should be informed that their risk of having a caesarean section is
higher with oxytocin induction of labour than with expectant care. Because
of the potential for biased assessment in the trials that have been carried
out, there is still no clear evidence as to whether or not a policy of
induction will reduce the risk of neonatal infection. If there ARE signs of
intrauterine infection antibiotic treatment should be started and delivery
effected. The most important thing at this point is to avoid sources of
contamination, NO VAGINAL EXAMS SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT. She should not be
hospitalized. Her labour will most likely start within 48 hours.

Marie Tyndall, RN, Midwife, childbirth educator, Costa Rica