Let Labor begin on its Own -HBP 1-

"The six Lamaze Healthy Birth Practices below are supported by research studies that examine the benefits and risks of maternity care practices. Therefore, they represent "evidence-based care," which is the gold standard for maternity care worldwide. Evidence-based care means "using the best research about the effects of specific procedures, drugs, tests, and treatments, to help guide decision-making." http://www.lamaze.org/ChildbirthEducators/ResourcesforEducators/CarePracticePapers/tabid/90/Default.aspx

The first listed Healthy Birth Practice is to let labor begin on its own.
Please read the entire page that clarifies common reasons given for early induction. It also lists recommended reasons for induction including post 42 weeks but adds more useful information.

"It is important to know that “postterm” means you are 2 weeks past your due date. The ACOG and international obstetric associations define a normal pregnancy as lasting from 38 to 42 weeks. If you go past your due date, there is some controversy about whether it is safer for your baby to be born at 41 completed weeks of gestation or 42 completed weeks. Nevertheless, in a recent medical survey, researchers concluded that there is no significant difference in perinatal mortality (the number of babies who die) between induction of labor at 41 weeks and expectant management (allowing the pregnancy to continue) (Wennerholm, Hagberg, Brorsson, & Bergh, 2009)."

Please note that induction of labor after previous uterine surgery is controversial at best-
Please see ICAN's induction of labor page http://ican-online.org/pregnancy/induction-labor

Other resources-
http://www.injoyvideos.com/mothersadvocate/pdf/healthybirth_1.pdf
http://www.birthactivist.com/2009/11/labor-begins-on-its-own/
http://saffrondoula-coloradosprings.blogspot.com/2008/02/quick-reply-avoiding-labor-induction.html