Final answer:
The most commonly used method for inducing labor following artificial rupture of the membranes is oxytocin infusion. This method utilizes the synthetic form of oxytocin, known as Pitocin, to stimulate uterine contractions for childbirth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Following artificial rupture of the membranes, the most commonly used method for inducing labor is oxytocin infusion. Oxytocin is a hormone released by the posterior pituitary gland that stimulates the contractions of labor. As labor approaches, the myometrium (uterine muscle) becomes more sensitive to oxytocin, intensifying the contractions necessary for childbirth. This hormone's natural role in labor is the reason why its synthetic form, known as Pitocin, is typically used to medically induce labor when necessary. When the rupture of the membrane occurs naturally, it often happens toward the end of the dilation stage due to pressure from the fetal head entering the birth canal, stimulating oxytocin release and subsequent contractions.