Induction of labor means the artificial initiation of labor after the period of viability.  In the well-dated pregnancy past 41 weeks gestation, induction of labor provides the safest alternatives for the woman and fetus to reduce the potential for fetal compromise and decrease the incidence of fetal macrosomia.  Other complications of pregnancy that may require induction include pregnancy-induced hypertension, diabetes, hemolytic disease, and postmaturity.

Nearly 40 years ago (1964), Bishop (Bishop, E. Pelvic scoring for elective induction.  Obstetrics and Gynecology 24(2), 266-268) developed a pelvic scoring system to predict inducibility by evaluating the position of the cervix as it relates to the vagina, the cervical consistency, dilation, effacement and station of the presenting part.

The higher the score, the more favorable the cervix with a clinical trial showing a score of 6-7 or more associated with successful inductions.

But the cervix should not be the only item considered in determining readiness of an induction.  The baby's readiness to survive on the outside should also be considered, as well as how well the baby will tolerate the cascade of medications he/she is about to endure.

Bishop Scoring System
Criteria	Scores
	0	1	2	3
Dilation (cms)	0	1-2	3-4	5-6
Effacement (%)	0-30	40-50	60-70	80
Station	-3	-2	-1	+1, +2
Consistency	Firm	Med	Soft	---
Position	Posterior	Mid	Anterior	---