Why Maryland Hospitals Are Saying 'No' To Mothers Who Want Early Deliveries

The number of babies delivered early in Maryland hospitals because their parents or doctor elected to induce for convenience rather than a medical reason hit a landmark recently.

Zero.

In December, the most recent month for which data is available, Maryland hospitals recorded zero early-elective deliveries before 39 weeks and came close to no elective caesarean sections before full gestation, according to the Maryland Patient Safety Center. The center and the Maryland Hospital Association had called late last year for hospitals to stop early-elective deliveries before 39 weeks.

“It’s so much safer for infants,” said Dr. Ann Burke, medical director of obstetrics and gynecology at Holy Cross Hospital. “Elective deliveries prior to 39 weeks gestational age are linked to increased complications for both mother and baby.”
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