An analytical review of published domestic and foreign scientific studies is presented concerning methods for assessing the degree of maturity of the cervix (the main method is palpation, ultrasound measurement of the length of the cervical canal, a new method is static and dynamic elastography) and methods of labor pre-induction (mechanical and pharmacological). At present stage, it is necessary to standardize methods of pre-induction of labor and introduce into practice new methods for assessing the degree of maturity of the cervix to increase the efficiency of preparation for childbirth.