The elective induction of labor is an acceptable practice providing all the proper conditions are met, but it does entail certain pitfalls and in some instances could be termed meddlesome obstetrics. The incidence of “induction of convenience” should be low. The place of oxytocics in many other situations is discussed, including the management of the third stage of labor, toxemia, placenta previa, breech presentation, diabetes, heart disease, desultory labor and postmaturity.