Advice on Labor Induction

Updated on July 24, 2008
B.D. asks from Chicago, IL
84 answers

this is my first pregnancy......my due date is july 18th. my doctor told me this morning that at my next appt next week, which will make me 40 wks....that they might induce labor! im scared and they didnt explain what may happen. can someone explain to me about labor induction and any risks involved with it...i want to hear good and bad...risks and all....do i have the option to wait it out naturally?

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L.D.

answers from Chicago on

Both my pregnancies where induced. The first with a singleton and the second I had twins. No problems either time. You just get pitocin into you IV that will help bring on the contractions. It took awhile before I delivered though. No complications for either for me. Nothing to be afraid of! My first is 7 and the twins are 3 --- all healthy!

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S.D.

answers from Chicago on

I would only induce if medically necessary. If not, wait it out. The least amount of medical intervention is best.

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K.M.

answers from Chicago on

Hi B.,

I would wait on an induction if you could. My son (and my only child) was almost two weeks late and the doctor left the decision up to me. My appointment for an induction was on the last possible day, and my son started on his own the day before my appointment. That is not to say that you should wait and wait for the baby, but I'm glad that I waited. If there is some medical reason that the doctor wants to induce you, he should tell you and it should be considered. But if they just want to induce you so you'll have the baby sooner, you could end up with more interventions such as a c-section. One intervention (induction) usually leads to another.

Congratulations and best of luck to you!

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S.H.

answers from Chicago on

Take in all the advice, talk with your doctor, read what you can find....and then make the best decision for you. Every woman and every pregnancy are different. You are the best person to decide what's right for you...trust your instincts. I have two wonderful children; two different birthing experiences. Here are my stories:

For my first (daughter), my water broke but my labor wasn't progressing after waiting at home for 10 hours. I went to the hospital, got checked (at 1 cm) and because I was in an "alternative birthing center" (by choice), they tried all natural things to get my contractions going. They put me on a breat pump for a cycle (15 minutes I think) and then I walked the halls for 15 minutes - breast pump - walked. I thought putting me on a breast pump was weird, but apparently it stimulates the natural oxytocin that our bodies produce. I went from 3 to 10 cm in 45 minutes, pushed for 15 minutes and my daughter was born.

For my second child (son), I was miserable at the end of my pregnancy (I was HUGE!) and begged my doctor to induce me, thinking that I would have a similar experience to my first. At my due date, my doctor (same doc that delivered my first) finally relented and "stripped my membranes" and they tried some other stuff like with my daughter. My son was a bit more stubborn and my labor didn't progress so I went on pitocin. Because I had heard and read that pitocin can make contractions more painful, I also did an epidural. It took a little while to get going, but when it did, I progressed relatively quickly, although the epidural did not work (has anyone told you that can happen yet?). I pushed for a short time again and after about 10-12 hours after being induced, my son (all 9 lbs, 7 oz of him!) was born. I joke now (8.5 years later) that knowing his personality, stubborn but laid-back and can be VERY SLOW, if I had waited for him to be ready to be born, I would have been pushing out a 12-pounder!

Again, take all the advice in and make your own decision, but I recommend: try all the natural methods for getting labor going; do pitocin as an almost last resort and epidural as a really last resort. But also don't let anyone bully you into only going "natural". Everyone's body is different and if you need something to help you through the labor, trust yourself and get what you need.

Best wishes to you and your new baby! All will go well!!

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S.M.

answers from Kansas City on

Hi B., Hopefully you have had you baby, It looks like youve had a lot of responses. It isnt nice to know others care about a strangers situation. Im an acupuncturistand have used it numerous times to induce women without drugs. Thin painless sterile needle are inserted in your hands and feet . It has been proven to be safe,natural and effective. Dont know if youve already been told this. But good luck

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S.B.

answers from Chicago on

First, walk A LOT, have sex, eat spicy food -- all those things that might move things along! I was induced with my first b/c my water broke and labor wasn't progressing. I didn't want to be induced, but after hours of getting contractions going, but not dilation, I had to. The best thing that I did was ask for a slow drip, so that the changes were subtle. Also, I had it suspended from a mobile unit, so that I could continue to walk around and move freely during labor b/c I wanted a natural birth. It worked out fine for me. Best of luck!

S.
Mom of 6yo and 3yo

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T.C.

answers from Chicago on

Yes, you have the option to wait to 42 weeks if there is no risk to you or baby. There needs to be a medical reason to induce. Insist on a NST (non-stress test) and a biophysical profile at your visit next week if you haven't gone into labor and the doctor wants to induce. The biophysical profile measures the amniotic fluid, size of the baby and health of the placenta. That information will give you what you need to decide whether or not you want to be induced. It is very true that inductions have a very high correlation with c-sections. In addition, you'll have iv's and more monitoring, as well as no laboring at home. I highly recommend a doula. I had to be induced at 42 weeks after having those tests, and my ob used what is called an EASI procedure. No drugs, all natural. Talk to your doctor because there are options. Good luck, and let us know what you decide!

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M.A.

answers from Chicago on

i just had my baby on the 27th of june and i was induced. i was scared out of my mind of being induced. it really wasn't bad. my water was broken and we waited six hours for me to be completed dilated i was then given pitocin to speed up things and it did. the only REAL nightmare was when i refused to get the epidural during my first few hours of extreme pain and i was given a combination of drugs which the nurse claimed would help w/the pain. it did NOT if anything it made me so drowsy that when i did get the epidural and i gave birth to my baby boy i remember only seeing him for a few seconds and then i literally fell asleep b/c of how drugged i was. this was the most disappointing part b/c i wish i would've been awake those first few moments of my sons first day of life. so that was my experience, whatever you do DON'T take drugs they don't help w/the pain other than put you to sleep and yes you still do feel the pain. good luck and best wishes to you on that day and congrats on your baby.

p.s. just to let you know my baby was 8lbs 12&1/2oz. the doc. said that if we had waited past the 40 weeks he could've been a bigger baby which would've complicated labor since i'm petite. today he weighs 10lbs and 5oz.

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M.R.

answers from Chicago on

Some people have a dream delivery after being induced and some people have a nightmare delivery after being induced. You can find both good and bad stories no matter what you decide.

Be assertive with your doctor. Ask why he/she thinks you need an induction and ask him/her to share the pros and cons. Weigh it out and make your decision.

There could be a million reasons why a doctor would choose to induce you. Because we do not know your medical history (nor should we!) and we do not know the intricate details about your pregnancy (again, that's your own business unless you choose to share), there could be valid concerns or reasons why your doctor is wanting to do an induction. Some reasons are truly a convenience for the physician, while other reasons are legitimate medical concerns related to the mother or the baby.

The next time you see your doctor, insist on learning more about his or her decision-making process regarding the induction.

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E.H.

answers from Chicago on

There can be lots of risks involved with inductions that are not fully explained to moms. Please do some research about this before you go to your next apointment. Have you ever heard of the Ricky Lake documentary "The Buisness of Being Born". It has some really great information about birth in America. I had both my children in a hospital, but made sure that I had a birth plan and was informed about what I wanted and what would be offered. If you have had a normal pregnancy and the water levels in your uterus are fine and your baby is not in destress, there really isn't a reason to induce. Many women make the choice to do so if they are tired of being preganant or afraid "the baby is too big"...something that is often said to scare moms into induction. There are cases when babies are big, but fear is a manipulator. Often times doctors like to induce becuase labor and birth are unpredictable and if they are in control of drugs that "manage" your labor or cause the need for a c-section they are taking your experience into their hands and do things according to their schedule. It really depends on what type of birth you are looking for and if you want to let your body do what it is created to do or go the medical route. Both are your choice and only you can know what you want. (This is not to say that there are not things that happen in birth that require intervention, but if you start out with an intervention the risks for the need for more go up.) If you put your body in the hands of the medical industry, you can give up your options and find yourself undergoing procedures that you did not intend. This being said I had a friend who was induced just last month with her second child and she had a wonderful natural birth and a good experience. But education is the key!! There is a group called C.H.O.I.C.E.S. they have a yahoo group ____@____.com and a wealth of infromation and knowlege. They are decaded to helping women become educated and have the best birth experience possible. I wish you all the best! There is lots of information out there and utimately you have to do what your heart tells you. And my biggest advice to a new mom is to listen to yourself and your body...it does know what to do!!

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K.H.

answers from Chicago on

Did you ask why your doctor is suggesting induction? Is your baby overly large or are there any complications or is your baby at risk? Those are good reasons for induction. I have had 2 induced births and though both produced healthy, happy daughters, if I had a choice I would let it happen naturally. With my first my water broke and though we waited a while my body did not kick into labor. (And she weighed 9 lbs,1 oz!) The baby was no longer protected so needed to come out. With my second I was 2 weeks overdue and though I tried every natural labor-inducing remedy I could find, still no labor. So I was induced a 2nd time. (9 lbs 4 oz!) I guess it also depends on your birth plan--are you wanting to try labor without an epidural, etc.? If so, then being induced is not for you. Induction throws your body into labor, without your natural endorphins kicking in to help with the pain, so it can be very painful. You are given an i.v. drip of pitocin, an artificial form of the hormone your body produces to start labor (oxytocin). This doesn't mean that labor will go quickly. Everyone is different. My labors were 18 hours and 10 hours. Again, though, if there is a medical reason that your doctor wants to induce, I would explore that with your doctor. The most important thing is to ASK QUESTIONS! Ask lots and lots of questions until you are comfortable with the answers. This is YOUR pregnancy, YOUR baby. I know it's scary the first time, but please remember YOU are the consumer in the doctor/patient relationship, which is still a business, and you have a right to know everything that's happening and why and to decide for yourself, barring complications, how you want your birth to go. Don't ever forget your own power in this! Best of luck to you. I'll send happy healthy baby thoughts your way. --K.

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H.G.

answers from Peoria on

Sorry I didn't take the time to read everyone's responses, so hopefully this isn't too redundant. I had this EXACT issue when I had my daughter.... My due date was actually July 8th and my dr said he simply would not allow any pregnancy to go more than 2 weeks over due to possible complications (slow leaks, dehydration in the baby, possibly tougher delivery, etc). The primary concerns are that the baby is ready at 40 weeks and they've found going more than 2 weeks past can cause issues. I fought so hard with my ob-gyn about this because I was petrified to "play God" and "pick" my due date. I was afraid of actually doing damage or something not being right because she didn't come when she wanted to. How it worked for me was at my next to last appt, he said let's go ahead and induce this week. I was not yet dilated AT ALL. I cried in the patient room and told him I really was not comfortable with that and I needed more assurance of why he wanted to intervene when nothing was happening yet. What if they miscalculated my due date!?? I was absolutely terrified. He said he would give me one more appointment that week and then I would schedule another for the following Tues. If nothing was still happening, he would then insist again. Nothing Thursday. Then on the Tuesday appointment, he told me I was dilated about a 1/2 centimeter. He told me I could pick, that night, Wed night or Thurs night to go to the hospital. I no longer had a choice. On that particular date, I was exactly 7 days over and he said he wanted her out before 7 more came and went. I went home, debated with myself, talked to everyone in my family, her dad, etc., cried some more and then decided if something was actually happening, to go ahead and do it. I went to the hospital on Wednesday. They used pitosin to try and induce that night and Thursday night. Not a big deal, other than the extreme annoyance of being hooked up to a bunch of stuff and having to call a nurse every 20 minutes to help you disconnect and go to the restroom. My first and 2nd night's the pitosin barely caused any effect and by Friday morning, I was only dilated barely to one. However, I was having minor contractions from the moment I walked in the hospital voluntarily. (this was very reassuring to me that there was actual activity occurring naturally). On that Friday morning, my dr told me they would try one more night and if I was not dilated enough by Saturday morning, I would be taken for a c-section. OMG. This in my mind caused complete panic. I thought I was scared about induction, but this prospect made me totally nuts....I knew nothing about c-sections and it couldn't have been further from the course I wanted to take. Luckily on Saturday AM, he was barely able to break my water, which btw is when REAL labor starts. The kind you feel that makes you ask for the drugs. That was about 10AM. At 1:30-2PM, they allowed me the epidural. At 6:19PM that evening, my baby girl arrived the old fashioned way! And the icing on the cake, it was my parent's 35th wedding anniversary (11 days total overdue). The nurse's marvelled at how long the induction took to take any effect. They said it was the longest they'd seen a dr keep trying, probably due to my objections and protests to various suggestions. You have to be adamant about what you want to do with your body and what your instinct tells you, but also, there are health reasons they want to induce if you get into the 41st or 42nd week. I hope this is at least a little consolation in knowing someone else was exactly where you were...the one huge positive to induction is no risk of labor starting in a peculiar or far from the hospital place =). Good luck to you! If you want any more details or have specific questions, feel free to email me at ____@____.com

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E.P.

answers from Chicago on

When they say induction - is he just scraping your membrane (which can be pretty quick) or are they giving you the drug - petosin? I would check with your dr. and find out from him what he is going to do. Sorry..my best advise would be to NEVER listen to scary pregnancy stories because it will be different with you. I know you asked for them but....I even walked away from people who just wanted to "share" their scary delivery stories (I made my husband walk away too - men LOVE to share those stories with other men). Go into it positively - gravity is your friend - walk as much as you can when you get to the hospital or rock in a rocking chair. I've had two children - 1st was with petosin at 38 weeks and the petosin was fine and 2nd child was 5 days late and no drugs-it was just so quick! . Both labors were 3 1/2 hours each. So...yes....it is your body - you can wait it out unless the dr. has any medical concerns. WOW...in less than a week, you are going to be a mommy! Keep positive - keep focused, love your husband and please be careful reading about other people's challenges - your story will be different from everyones!

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T.R.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced at 37 weeks with my first (due to preclampsia) and it went very well...delivered her naturally less than 12 hours after they started petosin (sp?) My dad is obgyn and strongly advises induction after 40 weeks b/c the placenta starts to get old and not work as well. They is really no advantage to leaving the baby in after 40 weeks but there could be some danger (although it's probably only slight but who wants to take chances). Congrats on your Cancer baby! :)

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J.E.

answers from Chicago on

I had it done, they gave you an iv with pitosin and then broke a the sack. i had an epidural so i didnt feel a thing once the contactions started. I thought it was great. they indced me at 35 weeks due to preeclampsia etc I was about to have a stroke. My twins are good. I was scared too an my husband said just imagine the worst pain and everythign I had planned like a vaginal birth etc not goig the way I wanted ti. So i was not let down when my expecations were not able to be what I wanted it to be. Well it ended up great, no pain , three pushes and they came out and I was healthy too and no c- section etc!
good luck and go with the flow! It will get you prepared for motherhood too! ugh!
J.

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H.W.

answers from Chicago on

Hello, I had pitocin to help me along with my delivery but I was contracting and had very high blood pressure. When we took our classes before delivery the nurse told us to only let them induce you if they can give you good medical reason to do it. My mother is also a nurse in the nursery and she says that a lot of inductions end up in c section. I don't know how scientific that is but that is what they notice. I think there is a lot to be said for just letting it happen. If your baby isn't ready to come out it can cause problems. Women have been doing this for years and the body knows when it is time. Try not to stress. This will be the best thing to ever happen to you!! Enjoy it!!

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K.

answers from Chicago on

Nature generally works. Unless there is a valid medical reason to induce (ie the baby is not doing well - and a "big" baby is NOT a valid reason) you should wait it out. Remember 40 weeks is not a deadline - it's an AVERAGE. That means that for every woman who has her baby before 40 wks there's another who has it later. Several studies show that avg FIRST pregs las 40+4 deays. You're not "overdue" until you're 42 weeks. Your doctor shouldn't have a problem letting you go 41 -42 weeks if you ask. The thing is that many women ask to be induced so your doc is probably expecting that you WANT that. My baby - born 3.5 weeks ago - was 9 days "late" (ie 41 weeks 2 days) and that was perfect for us.

Risks: mainly fetal distress from contractions that are much stronger than natural. Also very uncomfortable - havn't had it myself but if you were planning a natural birth I gather it's very though to deal with an induced labor. ecause of this you can end up with the whole "cascade of interventions " (induction -> pain so you get an epidural, they crank up the pit, baby goes into distress and you get a c-section). Inductions DO carry a higher risk of cesarean.

Risks of "waiting" are increased risk of still birth. The published risks of this are approx. 1/1000 at 40 weeks, 1.5/1000 at 41 weeks and 2/1000 at 42 weeks. So yes, the risk is doubled at 42 weeks, but it's only increased to 2/1000.

If you go beyond 41 weeks your doctor will send you in for a non-stress test (I had one of these). This is where they check on the baby's heartrate and check to make sure the placenta is still working well. As long as everything looks good with this testing there is no reason not to continue to wait it out. If something were non-reassuring that would be a good reason to induce.

Good luck with your decision! If it were me I would DEFINITELY wait it out. I'm sure your birth will be great!

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J.W.

answers from Chicago on

There was a post back on June 20th about this: You can read what others had to say including the mom's follow-up:

http://www.mamasource.com/request/14213852469930229761

I would wait and let nature take its course and you do have an option especially with your first. I was exactly one week late with my first and was fine with letting her decide when she was ready, don't get me wrong, I was ready, but knew the risks of being induced too. Remember, that is YOUR right as a patient, we often forget that... I think the posts on here will help you make your decision. Good luck!

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J.B.

answers from Chicago on

You absolutely have the option to not be induced! It is your baby and delivery and you should choose whether you are induced or not. I have 4 children and my last one I had to be induced because my water broke and the labor didn't progress. The contractions from pitocin (sorry for misspelling it) were very strong and much harder than my previous three labors. I would strongly recommend not being induced. The baby will come when it's ready. Just tell your doctor you want to wait. Stripping your membranes(which doesn't hurt)might help things progress along as well. I would also recommend not having an epidural either. Natural child birth is the way to go. It is the most wonderful experience in the world. Good luck!

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L.G.

answers from Chicago on

Your doctor may want to induce if the baby is big, and he/she is concerned about the baby's size. Still, from my research during my pregnancy and conversations with my doctor, inducing labor is fine and safe. I'd go the route of having your OB strip the membranes first though... let things progress more naturally.

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A.

answers from Chicago on

I believe that unless there is a reason to think the baby is in distress you can wait. I was induced on my due date because I had gestational diabetes. This process resulted in a c-section, not something I would have chosen. If you can wait it out that would be ideal. You may want to look into a more natural induction (massage, accupressure) if you want to avoid the Pitocin. Good luck!

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J.K.

answers from Chicago on

From what I have heard, you want to avoid being induced. It puts your body into a fast hard labor that is h*** o* the baby. If the baby ends up in distress from the induction, then they will tell you that you need an "emergency" c-section. You can go all the way to 42 weeks before inducing is necessary unless something is wrong with the baby. A more natural way of inducing is to have the doctor break your water, but if the baby isn't ready to come out yet, then they will have to really induce you. Personally, I would tell the doctor to give the baby a chance to come out on its own.

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T.C.

answers from Bloomington on

Baby will come when they're ready and the first ones are very often "late". The problem with due dates is that they can be very inaccurate. If you're induced and the baby isn't ready to be born, you won't progress and you'll end up with a c-section. Some docs will tell you it's risky to let the pregnancy go past 40 weeks, but it's perfectly normal and safe for it to go to 42 weeks. You may be told that your baby is getting too big, but even size estimates based on ultrasounds can be way off.
Here are some articles about the risks of medical labor induction and natural methods to speed things along (which only work if baby is ready):
http://www.mothering.com/articles/pregnancy_birth/birth_p...
http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/pregnancy/...
http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/reasons-to-induce-lab...
http://www.maternitycorner.com/mcmag/articles/preg0007.html
http://www.lifepassages.net/NaturalInduction.html
I used some of these methods and my midwife was really surprised that I delivered as early as I did. Just a few days earlier, at my appointment, she thought I looked like I was going to go late. Because I used natural methods, I was able to keep a certain amount of control over my birthing experience (as much as anyone can) and I went 100% natural and loved it ;O) You can read my birth story at http://www.naturalbirthandbabycare.com/eleu.html
Best of luck & hang in there!

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A.F.

answers from Decatur on

I'm sure you'll hear this from a lot of women, but don't get induced unless you're planning to get an epidural. If not necessary, induction hurts a lot more than letting things go naturally. I can't guarantee you that if you did wait you'd not have to be induced eventually. With this being your first, you just never know. I've had four children. The first three went naturally. The doctor talked me into having the fourth induced because she was not moving around much and she was worried. She was a whole 3 days late. I don't regret it because I'd rather have a healthy baby than worry about pain. Its just that if everything is progressing normally and looks fine, why make things harder on you. Doctors like inductions because it puts them more in control, and often leads to more daytime babies. I don't know why, but when done naturally, babies like to come in the middle of the night. 3 of 4 of mine did (even the one that was induced). Just consider all your options. My second child barely hurt at all. You'd think my fourth should have been a breeze, but because of the induction (and I don't think my body or the baby was quite ready, so the pitocin pushed things along) the fourth was worst than the first.

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R.G.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced for both my pregnancies... my daughter was 2 weeks late and my doctor opted to wait the full 2 weeks, and was induced on my actual due date with my son. Same doctor, just different circumstances dictating whether to wait or induce.
Both inductions went extremely well...we were able to manage pain effectively. I'd hear the horror stories about pitocin, and had both cervidil & pitocin myself without any ill effects. I was extremely nervous about the first induction, but pretty relieved to be induced the second time.
I think since every labor & delivery is different, one never really knows how it's going to unfold. Plans fly out the window in a blink of an eye. Keep an open mind & talk with your doctor about your fears.

Best of luck to you!!

A.F.

answers from Chicago on

You do have the option to wait it out -- but only to a point. Back in 1978, my mother was 2.5 weeks overdue with me (of course they didn't do as many inductions back then). However, your amnio level can fall over time if "waiting it out" goes on too long -- also the protective coating on your baby starts to dissipate as time goes on and the baby CAN get burned from the fluids in the womb at that point (I know a mom who went almost a MONTH overdue and her baby's face was very burned). I would suggest you talk out the pros and cons with your obstetrics provider.

I have a 1 year old with which I had contractions for 14 hours 2 minutes apart and simply was not dilating -- I elected to have them break my water and give me pitocin to move things along...another 14.5 hours later my daughter was born. It was not pleasant (as the pitocin makes contractions LONGER and HARDER) and I am hoping to avoid it with baby No. 2 (due November 6th).

Good Luck!

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M.V.

answers from Chicago on

I have had three children...ages 6,3,&1. I want to let you know what happened with each of my deliveries so you know that I understand where you are coming from. With my first pregnancy, I went into labor on my own and they helped things along by breaking my water(after I had already been in labor for 12 hours and being stalled at 2cm. My first child was quite large for my body (8lbs.8oz. while I am only 5'3"!) and my 2nd was suppose to be larger. I choose induction for the 2nd child because the doctors thought it would be best for both of us if they induced me. He was born just over 39 weeks along and it was the best decision because I ended up having a shoulder dystocia with him. He was a wide shouldered boy! With my 3rd son, he was suppose to weigh 8lbs.13oz. I choose induction due to my fears of him being too large for me to deliver as well. He was born at just barel 38 weeks and he was 8lbs.2oz. I ended up wih a very bruised tailbone (still seeing a doctor for it a year later!)

Before you agree to be induced, I would evaluate a couple things. One, I would ask them if there is any reason why you shouldn't wait. They know what size of baby you can deliver (roughly). If they feel it is better health wise for you to deliver around 40 weeks, I would go for it. If it is of convenience for the doctor, then I would wait.

One of the most important things when you are induced is to make sure that you are either dialated a little or effaced some. If you are not effaced or dialated at all, I would suggest waiting a week. It will be harder on you and labor would be more difficult. There are risks involved (as there is with everything)...the baby might not tolerate labor well by the heart rate going down is the biggest risk that I know.

As far as the procedure goes, they started me on Pitocin. They contineud to increase the dose as my labor fell into a regular pattern. After they get into a regular pattern, then they want to make sure that the contractions are effective enough. If you are dialating on 'schedule', you'll stay at that same level of pitocin. If not, then they'll increase the dose again.

It may sound extremely scary to someone who's never been in labor before. My thought has always been (2 inductions later), my doctors did it for the well being of the baby and me. They did not do it for convenience. It was a risk for me and my baby if I ended up waiting for my body to go on its own. You always have an option on whether you want to be induced. If they tell you its for safety or health reasons, please pay attention. I have known moms who were told to be induced for the safety sake of the child, they choose not to be induced, and ended up with complications in labor.

I hope that I didn't scare you too bad and this helps. Good luck!

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B.T.

answers from Chicago on

Talk to your doctor - you typcially don't need to induce when just at 40weeks. They usually let you wait at least 1-2 weeks after due date.

I was almost 2 weeks late - got induced. have a healthy baby, but experience was less than ideal. Wait as long as is safe for your baby and body to do the process naturally - that's my advice.

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K.U.

answers from Chicago on

Why are they asking that you induce labor? My last daughter was 6 days late and they never talked about inducing. My first daughter though was induced two weeks before the due date. The drs. actually thought she was going to be a bigger baby than she actually was and felt that I wouldn't be able to deliver her naturally if we waited 2 more weeks. So she was induced, and would not budge. I went in on a Monday and had her c-section Thurs. a.m. after the dr.'s & nurses asked me if I wanted to get on the floor & try pushing, I was exhausted by then, not to mention that I hadn't eaten in 3 days.

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S.

answers from Chicago on

You always have an option and a choice. I would discuss it with my doctor about his reasons why he doesn't want to wait another week. I know that there are some dangers with waiting but I would like to know his reasoning first before deciding.

I had 3 of my children without induction and my 4th with. I found it no different from natural induction except that labor started instantly, there was no gradual going into it. Now, don't be scared because everyone is different and everyones body reacts a different way. I was induced because I didn't want to have my baby on Christmas day (my due date) and wanted her birthday as far away from Christmas as possible. The hospital was full - if you can believe that one!!!!- and I ended up getting induced on Dec. 22 instead of the 19th.

Just don't be scared, ask lots of questions and take everything in stride and you will have a beautiful baby at the end!

Good Luck!

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D.N.

answers from Chicago on

Wow are you getting the advice today. It seems that the bottom line is that every labor is different. I'm hearing positive and negative stories. Mine is positive. With both my children I was induced. With both of my children, I was dialated to two for about a week. For the first child, my labor was nonexistant thanks to the epidural. I pushed for about forty five minutes but that is because I was pushing from the wrong "spot". Make sure you're pushing like you're having a bowel movement. Noone told me that. For my second little one, it's a funny story. My sister in law and I were both pregnant at the same time. Her babies (twins) were due a month after my baby. Well, every Monday her twins were getting tested to see if their lungs were well enough developed for a C-section. We were so afraid that our girls would be born on the same day that I asked my doctor if I could be induced the Friday before her Monday test. I, of course, was dilated to two for the week but no other symptoms. My labor was again nonexistant thanks to the epidural and I pushed four times and poof she was here. I would do it again in a heartbeat. My doctor believes that no woman in this day and age should be in pain over labor. Check the risks because with everything there is a risk but go with your gut. Good luck and let us all know how it went. God Bless.

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L.M.

answers from Chicago on

Dear B.,
I have had six children - and my dr induced the last two - why? no one stays pregnant forever - i let them do it because the dr knows best, right? well, i wish i hadn't! There was no risk to me or my babies - just 'pregnant enough' - 40 weeks. I guess they think we are done after 40 weeks - but if you want to go when the baby says so - well, tell your doctor that. The only reason to be induced is if there are risks for either of you,that would be my advice. Good luck to you. And Congratulations!

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S.S.

answers from Chicago on

I was given piocin when my labor wasn't progressing with my daughter and it made the contractions very strong. It is a good idea to educate yourself about induction and these moms have some great advice!

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L.C.

answers from Chicago on

B.,
I was induced with my son 6 years ago. I was a week from my due date but my blood pressure had slowly been going up during the last couple of weeks of my pregnancy. I was nervous to be induced but looking back now it was really no big deal. They started Pitocin at 9pm and I delivered my son at 220am. I did get an epidural, but other than that it was a pretty uneventful labor and delivery. I would have to say remember you choose this ob/gyne for a reason hopefully b/c you really trusted he/she with your life and your babies. Good Luck.

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J.K.

answers from Chicago on

B.,

Many women have a positive experience with induction, but statistically, inductions lead to more interventions, fetal distress and c-sections. Be sure that there is a sound medical reason for induction at 40 weeks. Again, a "big baby" is not a legitimate reason. Also, the 40 weeks is arbitrary. Research shows first babies of healthy moms are born closer to 41 weeks - average. As others have pointed out, there is no "law" you have to take your OB's advice. You can negotiate with him/her or simply say no. You are his client. A good read is by Henci Goer who reviewed all the research and summarizes it in her book The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth. She has a chapter on induction. You may be able to find parts of it on line. Best of luck for your birth and your new baby!

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D.G.

answers from Chicago on

All they will do is give you an IV of pitocin....it just makes the labor progress quicker. I had it done with both of my daughters, and there were no problems. There is a danger in waiting to go into labor naturally....after 40 weeks the placenta begins to deteriorate and the baby can be cut off from nutrients and can lead to a stillborn birth, so I would definately follow the recommendations from your doctors.

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T.P.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced both times with my children, and every thing was great. My longest labor was 4 hours. I wouldn't be scared.

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N.S.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced with my 1st and it was wonderful!! They had to break my water for me, which didn't hurt at all, they give you Pitocin to bring on contractions but then you know you have plenty of time to get the epidural. They broke my water just after 8am and my daughter was born before noon, it wasn't bad at all. I don't know about any risks but nowadays I don't think doctors do it unless it is necessary. I started getting high blood pressure so he let me go to my due date and then induced me. I would just follow whatever the doctor says. Good luck and congrats!!

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A.M.

answers from Chicago on

I too have had inductions, allwere very uneventful. My best advice to you though is DO NOT BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS! This is true of any doctor in any health situation. You and/or your insurance company are paying this doctor alot of money, so he/she works for you, so make them earn it. I don't mean be rude or anything, just ask the questions that are on your mind. If you find yourself asking/thinking of alot of questions after you leave the office, call back and tell them you need to speak to the doctor. That is also part of their job and they won't be offended. Once you ask your questions and have anwers you will be better able to make a decision, which you always have the right to make.
I'm sure everything will turn out just fine. Good luck and congratulations.

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J.

answers from Chicago on

They induced labor with my daughter. It was my due date and the doctor was not happy with the results of the non-stress test. I was completely freaked out and unprepared. As it turned out, the umbilical cord was wrapped around my daughter's neck three times, so it was a very good thing she was born when she was.

My husband's daughter was induced with her daughter becuase they thought the baby was too big. As it turned out she was not, but everything went well.

It all depends on how your doctor handles induction. I would call and talk to a nurse to find out what their policies and procedures are. They give you an IV (which is what I was most scared of but turned out to be nothing). They can adjust how strong your contractions are and how far apart. My doctor wouldn't give me an epidural until I had reached a certain point (which was about 9 hours later, but that varies by doctor). I only have one child, so I don't have a comparison, but my labor and delivery were difficult. But my mom was given an inducing agent when she was in labor with me. Her labor was quick and uneventful, but more painful than my three sisters.

Good luck. And remember...at the end of it all, you'll have a beautiful baby as a reward.

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O.L.

answers from Chicago on

You always have the option to do what you feel is best. Talk to your doctor. Ask how long he or she would be willing to wait for a natural delivery. Some doctors like to induce labor in order to tailor their patients delivery to their schedule.

I have five children. I have done natural delivery three times and induced delivery the last two times. One by doctor suggetion(I wish I had asked more questions). The second time the doctor suggested inducing and I said no. However, about two weeks later we found out it was necessary due to a low amount of fluid left to protect the baby. The induced delivery causes a bit more pain. The effects on the baby....? My sons both had minor medical issues, but there is no way to tell if the issues are related to the medicine or not and there are no studies on the side effects of inducing.

I would recommend your FIRST labor experience begin naturally, but remember it is totally your decision(your body).

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K.B.

answers from Chicago on

I just had my second child who is sixteen months younger than her sister. With my first, I was given pitocin (sp?) to get things going. It is intense, but if you are using an epidural (as I did) you will have absolutely nothing to worry about in the pain department as your body prepares baby for pushing. In fact, you can lay back, relax, and enjoy this major event. As you go through labor, you may realize that you just need to get through it, and the less time may be the better. My friends advised me, "Don't fear the pitocin!" My first was 19 hrs. and my second was 14 hrs. Either way, it is going to hurt and take everything you've got - I opt for a shorter marathon!

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C.D.

answers from Springfield on

You absolutely have the right to wait it out up to two weeks post due date (in most cases). After that the placenta does start to deteriorate (sp). My opinion on child birth is to let your body do what it was designed to do. In most cases labor will start on it's own. During my second child last year, they tried to do an induction but I refused because of the risks...many times you won't fully dialate because they are forcing your body into doing something it's not ready for an end up with a c-section. Luckily, my daughter came on her own 4 days past my due date. Remember this...your due date is NOT the end all be all when it comes to delivery, it's just a guess. Good luck with your little one...I hope you have a great delivery no matter how it comes about!

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D.N.

answers from Chicago on

My daughter, 3 months now, was born at 41 weeks. They told me they would induce if needed if I went far beyond that. If I had made it to my dr appt, they were going to do an ultrasound to check her and check the amniotic fluid levels which can start to decrease. Usually they will want to induce if you go too long or if the baby is very big. I would ask why they want to do it. Inducing does have risks becaues it can cause some very strong contractions. they did give me a little push to get it finished but I had no problems with it. My first pregnancy I was induced for not progressing but ended up with a c-section for infant distress (not related to the induction). Definitely find out if they want to induce for a specific reason or just because you have reached 40 weeks.

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K.T.

answers from Appleton on

You absolutely have the option to wait, just be keep an open conversation with your doctor. You will probably have to have a non-stress test (an ultrasound and heartbeat/kick monitoring) to be sure the baby has enough fluid and responding/moving well. Once you are having contractions, I highly recommend drinking Yogi Mother-to-be tea (Whole foods and other health food stores sell it) if you want to speed up your natural labor a little bit. It worked wonders when I was puttering along at home waiting to call my doula. Good luck!

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L.B.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced for my second because my first came so quickly that I was afraid I wouldn't make it to the hospital in time. It went really well. I was having contractions when I arrived at the hospital (didn't know it) and they began giving me pitocin. As time went on the contractions increased in frequency and pain level (like normal labor). I was able to get an epidural (I wasn't with my first because she was so quick) and that was wonderful! Good luck to you!

The only bad thing I've heard is that induction has a higher risk of c-section because your body may not be ready to have a baby yet(meaning you don't dialate). I was always dialated and I carried my babies very low so I was always ready to go when they were.

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L.B.

answers from Chicago on

Induced labor can be much more intense & YES you have the option to wait it out naturally. Your due date is an estimate. Doctors appear to be making births happen according to their own schedules.
Do whatever you can to feel as relaxed as possible. I recommend using a relaxation recording that you can find at most bookstores. Use it starting ASAP & during labor. The more relaxed you are the more you will allow your body to operate as nature intended.
Have your family members be your advocates to express your wants & needs.
If you learned breathing exercises like in Lamaze class you will be better able to control your the level of your relaxation.
Wishing you a peaceful birth.

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D.S.

answers from Chicago on

Hi, B.--my pregnancy was always planned as an induction (Lucca is 7 now), because of my specific needs, but I don't know of any dangers or risks with induction. In fact, it's kind of nice because you can pack, plan your trip--much more calm. For me, I was given the drug Pitosen (sp?)intravenously that would induce labor--I believe the practice is to get it at night-I want to say around 8 pm? We 'checked in' at 8 or so on Sunday, presumably to start the induction and be ready to go for Monday morning. You're not allowed to eat after that in case you need a C-section, although I don't know that there's any correllation between inducing and C-section--I had a vaginal birth. (I'm pro painkiller, by the way) If anything, it's kind of nice--you're already in the hospital in your room when your water breaks, you're already being monitored, you get a chance to chat with some of the nurses who might be attending you, etc. Are you still in your pregnancy class? Your group leader could probably give good insight as well.

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C.C.

answers from Chicago on

Hi B.,
Congratulations on becoming a mom! My first child was allowed to arrive 3 weeks late. The other two followed completely different timetables. I was very active with my first child and believe that this is why the 2nd one arrived early.
Pitosin can be used which intensifies the contractions to speed things along. Ask your doctor what steps are taken to induce labor and the reasons for the steps taken.
With my first labor and delivery, they did break my bag of water and it did help.
The better informed that you are before labor and delivery will let you understand your choices and the reasons for the steps taken.

Information about birthing is also available at www.birthlink.net (this is one way to link up with a doula - someone to give you emotional support during the birthing process).

C.
mom of 3 and prenatal yoga teacher

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M.M.

answers from Chicago on

My experience with being induced was totally fine (bordering on wonderful). I went in around 6:00 p.m. and started pitocen around 7:00 p.m. I was already dilated to a 3 I think, when I went in. They broke my water around 8:30 p.m. At 10:00 p.m. I asked for the epidural (which I thought hurt the most out of the whole process, but was worth the minute of pain). I was feeling the contractions, but they said they would start coming harder and faster so I should get the epidural when I was still fairly comfortable and could stay still. I started pushing at 4:00 a.m. and had my daughter at 4:55 a.m. (not too bad for a first, I didn't think).

One drawback for me was MAJOR swelling (particularly the ankles--more than when I was actually pregnant) from the pitocen for a week or two after having the baby. I hear the frequency and intensity of contractions after the pitocen/epidural combo can be severe, although that wasn't true in my case. Also, I think they say being induced increases the chance of having a C-section. You can look up more information on being induced on websites like babysource.com or probably even webMD or Mayo clinic.

I hope this little bit of my experience was helpful. I would definitely talk to your dr. about your options. Best of luck to you! Congrats!!

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D.G.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced with my second child and was not induced with my first. MY daughter came three weeks early and I had her with no drugs,yes all natural. It was tough but I made it through. So I decided to do the same for the second child. Well my son was very late and we were forced to induce. If you wait too long there are many complications that may occur, one of them is jaundice and there are many more but I do not remember them all, therfore inducing is a good thing. They hooked me up to an IV and started the induction. I was dialated 10 within 5 hours of it starting. I regret to say that this time I did use the drugs. Inducing increases the pain and it made the contractions closer together for a longer period of time. Therefore I reccomend doing the drugs. It was the same delivery as my daughter, accept this time I had pain meds. There really is no extra risk other than the pain being a little more intense. I wish you luck and enjoy every moment with your new baby because it goes by fast.

A.S.

answers from Bloomington on

I just had my fourth baby in May. We decided to be induced at 39 weeks because my previous baby was huge for my body. I was nervous too because I had heard about the long labors and intense contractions. My first three babies, I went to the hospital on my own and delivered each one within 5-7 hours. However, this time with the induction, it took me 15 hours! It was a long process. I wish I would have just waited, especially because my daughter ended up being average size. If you have the choice to wait it out and it is healthy for you and the baby, I would!

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J.B.

answers from Chicago on

Hi B.,
Congratulations in advance. I was induced for my first pregnancy because of various reasons. They used pitocin and broke my water. There are some risks involved, but it is your decision to decide if it is right for you, the best thing is to talk with your doc and have them explain what they are going to do. My doctor was very kind and understanding, and calmed my nerves. I checked into the hospital at 1 p.m. and at 5 they broke my water and by 8:55 p.m. my little girl was born. I know there are risks with epiderals, but if you are being induced, I highly reccommend getting one because the labor comes on fast. My little girl is 10 months old now, and appears to have no problems! The down side, my cousin was induced, after being in labor for 20 hours and ended up with a c-section because she didn't progress past a 7, so make sure you ask what proceure is if you can't deliver naturally, and be prepared to make the call if you have to, she wishes she was a little more informed so that she didn't have such a difficult time.
The best advice, is ask questions, and be as prepared as you can, make sure you discuss your plan with your birthing partner so they can help keep things going your way!
Good luck!

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S.W.

answers from Chicago on

Yes, just say no, if you do not want an induction. You are paying this doctor to deliver your child. You are the customer. If you don't deliver naturally by 40 weeks (many first time moms go past 41 weeks), ask your doctor for evidence based reasons why you need an induction. If your baby is passing non stress tests just fine, then there is no reason to induce.

For me personally, my induction labor was very painful and pretty much hell the entire time. I was forced to remain in bed the entire time and ended up with a c-section. My natural VBAC labor was very manageable and in fact I kept shrugging the contrax off because they never got as bad as the pitocin ones I had. I arrived at the hospital ready to push and it was a much better experience and recovery overall.

Also, and this may seem harsh, but OB's are trained to be surgeons, not baby deliverers. Not to say you will have a c-section, but surgery is what they like to do best. I used a midwife the second time around and the quality of care was night and day difference. If you can have an adovocate or someone who has been through this before there with you while you labor, that will really help you.

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M.P.

answers from Chicago on

As so many women have told you, there is usually no reason to be induced other than the convenience for your doctor. That's just practicing bad medicine. Your risk of a c-section goes up trememdously and your baby isn't ready to be born yet. Simple as that. Babies know when they are ready.

Of course you have the option to wait!!!! It's your body and your baby. DON'T let your doctor convince you that it's his or her decision, not yours. A lot of doctors try to run the show and women are made to feel that they have no control over their bodies. I was lucky, both my babies came on their own at 38 weeks. For the second, I had no meds and had a water birth and it was phenomenal. I recuperated quickly and didn't tear or anything. It was definitely the best decision I ever made. Good luck with your birth and stay strong!

M.H.

answers from Chicago on

Hi, B.. You always have the option to wait it out. I was induced when I had my daughter. My sister-in-law was induced with her son. Her induction didn't take the first try, so she felt it was a bad experience. I felt it was a good one. When I had my daughter, 2 other women in the neighborhood were all having babies around the same time. One had hers in April, and she was induced. Her labor lasted 12 hours. So when it was my turn to be induced (I was 9 days late when I was induced), I used her labor time as my measure. I figured I would probably be in labor about the same amount of time. Well, I was in labor for about 8 hours, and then I pushed for about 22 minutes. All done! The worst part of labor for me was the IV. I hate needles! I didn't use any painkillers at all. Induced labors increase a lot faster than a natural labor, but you get it over with a lot sooner, too. I didn't find it unbearable at all, though. When inductions were first brought up to me, I spoke with one of my mom's cousin's wives about it. She was induced (what, 30-some years ago?) for one of her sons, and the other she had naturally. She said she would have preferred both of them induced, because the labor was a lot easier to deal with (because it's so fast). She asked me, "If you had the flu, would you rather have it really bad for a day and be done with it, or have it spread over a few days but be mild?" Of course, I would rather have it really bad and be completely fine the next day (if only it worked like that in real life).

Before you decide to go ahead with an induction or hold off, find out why your doctor is suggesting it. My daughter was overdue. There was the threat that she would get too big and not have enough room or amniotic fluid, which is dangerous. She ended up being 6lbs 3oz and 18.5" long. Are you diabetic or have gestational diabetes, which increases your risks of having a large baby? Do you have problems with your blood pressure? If the doctor is just suggesting it because it's your due date and it's convenient, don't do it. If you don't have any health problems, let your doctor know you'll consider an induction if you haven't gone into labor by your 41st week. You really don't want to wait longer than that for reasons I mentioned above. Inductions aren't scary. Regardless of how your labor happens, it's going to be as bad or as good as you expect. Expect good! At the end, you get to meet your baby! Going through labor and delivery are worth it! And don't forget, there are a lot of risks and bad things that can happen even with a natural labor. Bringing a child into the world is never risk-free, regardless of how it occurs! Good luck and congratulations now!

M.
www.spiceglamup.com

PS ~ Just thought I would let you know, if I ever decided to have another child, I would opt for the induction. Even if labor began by itself, I would opt for the pitocin to speed it up.

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J.L.

answers from Springfield on

All the responses so far have been good advice. What I can tell you is listen to your body and know that you have the choice.

During my 1st and only labor I was induced 2 weeks early because of low fluid levels. It took 3 days and I still don't think my body was ready. The doctor had to break my water to start labor. After all that, we discovered I had plenty of fluid. I should have listened to my body because I was VERY comfortable and had no complications during my pregnancy(I LOVED being pregnant). Overall, I had an easy birth, but I don't recommend induction. It is no fun because you can't eat and can't move very much because you must be monitored.

Your body will start when it is ready. If there are no complications with your pregnancy and you are comfortable I would wait as long as possible. It is YOUR CHOICE and I really think that most inductions are done for the conveniance of the doctor.

Just a side note I was SO excited to be induced because I couldn't wait to see my baby. After all I had to go through being induced I would wait forever. Also, if you plan on having a natural birth, like I did, it is hard to follow through with when induced. My body fought the meds pushing me into labor and it was painful!

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R.C.

answers from Chicago on

You're getting a TON of replies! :)
Use what is best for you & your baby.
I myself had my first baby induced, and will never, EVER recommend that to anyone. It was horrible. Breaking the water is easy, you don't feel a thing, but the pitocin works incredibly fast & puts you directly into hard labor. No gradual slow build up as nature intended, so it's an incredible amount of stress on you & the baby.
My first only took 4 1/2 hours, and there wasn't even time for the epidural. (The Dr refused to order it until I was at 7 cm. I was stuck at 2.5 for 2 weeks prior, and even with pitocin, it didn't change for the first 2 hours. Then it changed - FAST!) Her head was already crowning when the anestiologist (spelling?) showed up. So no go. :(

Be careful that the Dr isn't doing this to have you fit into his schedule. That's what mine did, and since it was my first, didn't even think of questioning it. (I also never used that Dr again, and I've had 2 more kids!)
And if you do some research on it, you'll see that one of the reasons the number of C-sections has increased is due to complications with induced labors. Keep that in mind.

Good luck!

If you & the baby are right now both doing fine, chances are your little one isn't done "cooking" yet.

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D.W.

answers from Chicago on

Don't panic. You actually, unless baby is big already, could wait and see if you go on your own. As far as induction, they usually admit you, induce you with petocin to get things going (for dilation). The contractions can be a little more intense. I have gone early (3 weeks) both of my pregnancies, but on my first because her heart rate would drop, they had to use petocin to speed things along a little. I went naturally even with that. No drugs for delivery. Like I said, you may find the contractions more intense and sometimes closer together, but the breathing works. First thing is relax and go with the contractions, breathe and focus. Remember you know your body, listen to it. Don't be scared, it is an awesome experience. God bless and many blessings!

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P.P.

answers from Chicago on

B.,
You ALWAYS have the final say as to what happens with your medical treatment. Don't let any doctor tell you otherwise. If your intuition is telling you to give the baby more time to start the labor process naturally, than wait. Due dates are on, the majority, incorrect. I've known mothers who have been induced on their "due date" only to deliver an underweight baby who needs to be on a respirator for two weeks.
First babies are usually a few days to two weeks late. There is hardly any risk for keeping your bun in the oven a bit longer. Doctors like to induce because it covers their butts in an emergency, and it fits better into their daily schedules.
Inductions have a much higher instance of the labor ending in the operating room with a c-section. If you're up for six weeks of painful recovery instead of a week of soreness, then no worries.
Overall B., whatever you decide, make sure it is YOUR decision. Don't get strong-armed by a doctor because you think they know what's best. They know what is medically and statistically probable, but no one knows your feelings but you. Listen to your heart. Listen to your baby. Baby will let you know when it is time to come out.
Good luck, and God bless!
P.S. If they send you for one of those ultrasounds that measure your amniotic fluid, drink a lot of water before the ultrasound. It ups the amount of fluid in your body and fills out the amniotic fluid for the test. Actually, make sure you're drinking a lot of water anyway, but I'm sure you've heard that already!

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D.B.

answers from Decatur on

You ABSOLUTELY have a choice!! It is your body and your baby. Unless there is a medical reason (high blood pressure, baby in destress, ges. diabetes, etc.) to do so you do not need to be induced. In most cases it will make your labor harder and longer if you are induced. Unless your doctor can give you a GOOD reason for inducing you DO NOT DO IT!!

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K.B.

answers from Chicago on

I delivered my first child 10 days late without being induced. I believe my doctor let me go that long because I was measuring small and they wanted the baby to put on a few extra ounces. Unfortunately, I had meconium in my amniotic fluid because they let me go so long past my due date. It was really scary during the delivery. They had a neonatologist, a pediatrician, several nurses, and 2 OB/GYNs. Immediately upon delivery they wisked the baby away. I barely got a glimps of her. For my second two children, I was induced a few days past my due date. It was a great experience for me. They gave me pitocin to induce labor. I got an epidural before I had any painful contractions, and the delivery was a piece of cake. Of course there are some risks to being induced, but after the meconium scare with the first baby, I had no interest in going through that again! I would do what your doctor is recommending. They deliver a lot of babies and know what is best for you.

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A.B.

answers from Chicago on

YOU HAVE COMPLETE CONTROL OVER YOUR BODY, YOUR PREGNANCY, YOUR BABY. DO NOT FORGET IT. Doctors and medical staff love to play God in people's life. GIVING BIRTH IS A NATURAL HUMAN EXPERIENCE. It can become a medical procedure, but birthing itself is not a medical procedure. Sometimes doctors want to induce becuase the baby is feared too big to be delivered and they want to prevent c-section. Sometimes induced due to stress test or medical condition with mother, i.e. preclampsia or gestational diabetes. Other than those reasons, I firmly do not believe in induction for labor. A woman goes into labor when the baby is ready to be born. The baby's brain releases a hormone that is then released into the mother's bloodstream to start the labor process. Anytime the baby is born prior to labor naturally starting, the baby may not be ready. Of course the doctors will say the baby is ready because all the physical things may be working, but your labor experience will not be a good one if you are on drugs to make your body do what it would do on its on if it were ready. Many times the drugs used to induce prevent complete dialation. Many times the drugs make the labor come too fast, then the mother freaks outand sometimes, it actually slows down labor and either way, a c-section is what the end result is. I had both of my children 100% natural, no drugs, epidural, etc. My labors went very fast and there were no complications and the babies came out very alert. I understand that is not the best option for everyone, but I highly recommend you communicate with your doctor and understand exactly why he/she is doing what they want to do and do some research on your own before agreeing to it.

And I do believe you have until 42 weeeks to induce unless the placenta is detached.

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A.P.

answers from Chicago on

it's no big deal but get the epidural because being induced makes the contractions more painful. good luck. you'll just lay there as the baby moves down the birth canal. rest as much as you can until it's time to push.

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C.F.

answers from Chicago on

Yes! It's YOUR birth experience...of course you have a choice! Unless you have some crazy condition, you SHOULD wait it out and do it naturally! If you read up on what the induction is really all about, it is unnatural and can cause more damage than good. What's the rush? 40 weeks is just a guesstimate. So...you may be uncomfortable, but seriously... it's much safer to wait. And the incidence of unnecessary c-section is HUGE when you introduce drugs. Your body releases necessary, natural chemicals into your body (and therefore to the body) when you go into labor naturally. It actually relaxes the baby as you enter into a physically stressful experience for yourself and the little babe. My vote is to skip the induction and wait it out. You'll be glad you did. Good luck!

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C.S.

answers from Chicago on

This is your baby and your body. You totally have the right to the birthing experience you want. I suggest talking about the pro's and con's at the apointment. Then say you want to have a day to think about it. Generally it's not reccomended to go more than two weeks over due. Of course if there is medical emergency do the induction. But make them explain why your case is different, and why you can't wait a week or two. Don't just let them bully you into it because of protocol :) They are service providers, you have the final say!

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L.D.

answers from Chicago on

Hi! I went through labor induction myself. From what I understand, it is actually very common and low risk.

When my daughter was born, my water broke at home - very uncommon, but when this happens you MUST deliver the baby within 24 hours because of the extreme risk of infection. I was admitted to the hospital immediately, but I wasn't having any contractions, so they induced them. It is a very simple process. You are basically given an IV with pitocin, a drug that will induce your contractions. Every 15 minutes, they increase the amount of pitocin traveling through the IV - this increases your contractions and the rate at which they occur.

I have to say that I found being induced was great from the standpoint that I had complete control over the management of my pain. Because I wasn't laboring at home, but rather only in the hospital, I didn't have to wait until my contractions were a certain time apart - and I was able to get the epidural as soon as I felt like I wanted it. The whole process was easy/breezy.

I will say that before this had happened, at what turned out to be my final doc appt, they were concerned about my baby's size and said if I didn't go into labor on my own within the next week, they would recommend inducing. This sounds similar to your situation. They probably don't want to leave the baby in beyond 40 weeks because if the baby gets too big, your risk of c-section greatly increases. And in the last month of pregnancy, your baby can grow up to a pound a week. Yikes! A 7 pounder can turn into a 10 pounder before the month is up. Pretty crazy.

Anyway, I hope this helps to calm some of your fears! Don't worry - your docs have probably done this a million times before. Most likely you will be thanking them for it later : )

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C.N.

answers from Chicago on

I haven't read all of the responses but my doc has wanted to induce me the first time and this time as well. Both times it has been because I walk around dialated to 5 cm and very effaced which can cause very fast labor. Basically my body is completely ready for the baby to be ready. My first labor was 2 hours so he does have me totally freaked out for this labor. Also, they might induce because they are afraid of the baby getting too big. Do you take warm baths? walk a lot? A girl that works in L&D recommended that I have sex or take warm baths to bring on labor... I also find walking helps. I told my Doc that I do not want pitocin BUT would consider allowing him to break my water- the risk is that if the baby does not come on his own that pitocin may have to be used. I personally don't want an epidural or pitocin but you have to decide for yourself.

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L.B.

answers from Chicago on

I just love it how the medical establishment always threatens an induction even before your 40 weeks! If you and your baby are healthy, going past your due date a little bit is no big deal. Unless your OB was in the room when your baby was conceived there's no way to pin down the absolute exact date you're "supposed" to give birth anyway.

But like the others said, you don't want to go too long. My OB said the exact same thing about induction and two days after my due date I went into labor w/o meds. Best of luck to you! And just think - your pregnancy will be over before the summer gets too unbearably hot! Yay!

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B.N.

answers from Chicago on

B.- Induction is very common. With both of my pregnancy's i had to be induced. What happens is they will check you out to see if you are dialated etc. Then they will give you a medication called petocian which brings on the labor. It will be slow at first and they may choose to give more at a later time to bring it on more.

For my daughter which was my first pregnancy i was 40 weeks as well. When i went in, i was already in labor. So they let me go for an hour to see how far into labor i was. I ended up getting petician and had her in 6 1/2 hours.

With my 2nd pregnancy i was having twins. So i was being monitored really carefully. Anyway, same thing as with my daughter, i was contracting before i went into to be induced.

Just ask as many questions as possible and they should explain it to you. What hospital are you delivering at?

Hope this helps!
B.

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E.H.

answers from Chicago on

Hi B.,

I can certainly understand your concern about being induced, but not to worry! I was induced at 40 weeks and everything went fine. When they induce you, they will probably give you pitocin which is the synthetic form of the hormone that your body naturally puts out when you go into labor. The pitocin will cause contractions to begin. They may also break your water to get things moving faster. Some people say that the contractions feel stronger when you are induced, but I wouldn't know any different since it was my first pregnancy. Don't be afraid to get an epidural if the pain gets too intense. I wasn't sure I wanted "drugs" but was definitely glad I did it because I instantly felt so much more comfortable and was able to save my energy for pushing later.

Some of the risk with induction is that your body just may not be ready to be induced. If the baby has not dropped low enough, or you don't dilate fast enough, they may end up having to do a c-section if the risks to you and the baby increase (the longer you are in labor and not "progressing" the more likely it is that you might have to have a c-section) Many of my friends have had c-sections and they say it isn't all that bad, the recovery is just a little longer. In any case, your doctor and nurses will want to do what is best for you and your baby and that is the most important thing. It is true what they say about the fact that you kind of forget about the uncomfortable parts about having a baby and it really doesn't matter how they "get here".

I hope things go smoothly for you and that you will soon have a sweet newborn in your arms!

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C.B.

answers from Chicago on

Hi and Congrats!!! I have had 4 children and 3 out of four were induced. With my first I was 10 days overdue and she was getting big (8lbs 7oz) my dr said she was fine but they grow alot the last weeks and she was gaining weight very quickly, so it was best. There were no complications and it was nice because if the contractions were too severe the nurse would turn down the pitocin and give me a break. I was started at 10A and my daughter was her by 5:43P. The one thing that helped me go faster was the dr. would break my waters and start the epidural. Some people it slows down labor and some people (like me) it helped to speed things up. My second was not induced and I was in hard labor (with no way to ease it up) for 12 hours. The drs. appologized that they didn't induce but he wasn't late, he was just 10lbs 5 oz and 2 days overdue. My next 2 were induced because the drs. didn't want me to have big babies. They still let me go past my due date by and week and just watched the weight. They were still good sized. (9lbs 11oz and 9lbs 2oz) Ask if there is a good reason they want to induce, such as size or low amniotic fluid. Otherwise, I would try to go natural, but like I said I had no problems with mine. Good Luck!!!

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M.E.

answers from Chicago on

My second child was induced and it was pure heaven compared to the completely natural way with the first child. I chose to have an epidural, so it was given to me as soon as the labor pains started to become severe. With my first child, I was in severe pain for a couple of hours before I was able to drive to the hospital, check in, go through triage and finally get an epidural. I would definitely be induced for the third child.

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A.G.

answers from Chicago on

I would wait so long as both you and the baby are not in any danger. Sometimes doctors like to induce so they can be the ones to deliver your baby not someone else...which is nice for sure, but all in all. Also sometimes they induce at the parents request so they can "accomodate their schedule/lifestyle. I had to have both of my kids induced. My first one almost six weeks early because my blood pressure shot up ans they did not want to risk preeclampsia, and my second one because I was almost two weeks late, and my amniotic fluid was low. I can give you two unique scenarios about induction.

With my first, it did not speed up my labor at all. It took 12 hours for me to go from 0 -3 cm., and it was very intense for me. They broke my water and it still took another 12 hours to deliver. From 3-6 cm. it was so excruciatingly painful (I had back labor), and I also understand that induction is to be more intense and painful, especially once they break your water that at 16 hours in I had the epidural. We kept loosing his heart rate, my blood pressure would spike and then go down. The baby was facing the wrong way...I beleive they they are supposed to come out face down, not face up (which he was) The epidural did at least allow me some rest. I got to 9 cm. fairly quickly, but at 5 pm my son did not want to come down the way he was supposed to. They gave me an hour to get to a ten and deliver him or it was c-section time...thankfully I was able to do it on my own, and everybody was happy, and healthy, although my son was only 5lbs. 12 oz. The whole process took about 24 hours. I am sure that him being eraly had a lot to do with this though.

My daughter on the other hand was almost two weeks late. I was miserable, hot (August will do that to you when your preggers LOL), and my amniotic fluid was becoming low. Everyone was so sure I was going to have her early (at 37 weeks I already 4cm). By 39 weeks I was at 5 cm. I spent nearly 5 weeks half way through the process, and very uncomfortable as you might imagine. Well at nearly 42 weeks I was relieved to be induced, and obviously it was a safety issue as well. I decided to get the epidural about an hour into the induction because I went from a 5 -6 cm quickly and the labor pains were becoming a little bit uncomfortable. I was at the point of no return and after having had a 24 hour labor, I did not want to risk the pain I was in the last time. HOnestly if I had known how quickly the whole thing was going to go I would have skipped it. I got the induced around 10 p.m., and by 3:50 a.m I had had my duaghter. It was a piece of cake. Everyone was happy healthy (she was 7lbs. 10 oz).

I will say I was little dissapointed that I had to be induced on the second one after having to have been induced on the first. There was no waking in the middle of the night to poke my husband and say "I think it is time." If I were to have I third I would hope I could experience that one without the help of drugs, but all in all I am thankful for them, otherwise I may not have had such a happy ending with my children.

I don't think I would be induced just for the sake of being induced, for conveinence, etc., but I do think it is a wonderful thing to have if the situation merits it.

Best wishes, congrats, and good luck. Use your heart, and you'll never go wrong.

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C.G.

answers from Chicago on

B.,
I understand being scared, I was induced with my first pregnancy and to be honest, it was not that bad. I got to the hospital and they got me all set up, started my IV. After a few hours I was only dialated to a 3 so they discussed breaking my water. They asked if I wanted the epidural before or after they broke my water. I opted for before because I knew once the water bag was broken I would feel the contractions. They gave me the epidural (it was nothing) then my doctor broke my water and about 3 hrs after they broke my water my daughter was born. I actually liked that I knew when I was going to have my baby. I was more scared of my water breaking at home and not making it to the hospital in time to get the epidural. Once you get to the hospital the nurses will go over everything with you in detail.
I also know that now doctors will not let you go more than one week past your due date because the placenta breaks down and the baby does not get what it needs. I would definitly talk to your docor about your options and tell him/her how you feel. Most of my friends were induced also and no one had any bad experiences. The worst part is not being able to eat, you will be hungry, but right after the baby is born they feed you.

Good Luck!

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D.K.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced with both of my kids because I was high risk and I liked it because I had control of when I needed to get to the hospital and then they can give you the epideral if you chose to before the pain gets really bad. My neighbor was just induced but they waited until the actual due date and the baby wound up being 9 lbs. 15 ounces and she was a tiny girl so they had to do a c-section. My thought would be if the dr. thinks it should be done because the baby is big then I would go for it so that you don't have a 10 lb baby. Ask your dr. why he wants to do it, if there is a good reason then I would trust their judgement. Hope this helps.
Mother of a beautiful 2 1/2 year old girl and a handsome 7 month hold boy.

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L.S.

answers from Chicago on

I wouldn't recommend being induced. I was induced when i had my daughter. I was was sent to the hospital to get checked out because it was my due date. After getting a stress test i was told by the nurse that i was having contraction. They were so mild that i couldn't even feel them. Well to make a long story short, they would let me leave the hospital. I was checked in about noon on friday and I didn't end up having him until 12:07 the next day. It was very painful and uncomfortable. They gave me petocin right away. When my ob came in to do the first exam I was only 1cm dilated. So she decide to break my water and that is well all hell broke loose. It was so painful. It was the worst pain I had ever felt! The contractions weren't that bad before she broke my water, but afterwards they uped the petocin i think i could have killed somebody. At around midnight the baby went into distress. Once they took me of the pitocin, they were able to find the babies heart beat again. I have never been so scare in my life. At my exam at 6:30 the next morning, my ob said that I wasn't progressing fast enough. Eventually, I had to have an emergency c-section. I was so exhausted and hungary by this time that I didn't even care. I just wanted the delivery to be over with. I wouldn't recommend being induced unless you need it for medical reasons. I hope everything works out for you. Good luck!

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T.K.

answers from Chicago on

Of course you should trust your doctor's decision because he is the professional but make sure that you ask the reasoning behind the decision. Firstly I have three children and all of them had to be induced. My first one was induced at 37wks due to my blood pressure being elevated, my second was because he was 1 week late and the amniotic fluid had started to decrease, my third one was induced at 38 weeks due to decreased movement even after stimulation from the doctor. Since your baby has passed the 37wk premature mark I wouldn't worry at all. My first child which was my daughter was born at 37wks and weighed in at 5lbs 9ozs. Eventhough I had several complications after her birth, my little one was just fine. My son, my second child, induced at 41 wks was also fine. I just had my third child three months ago. she was induced at 38wks. Of course as you get older and become pregnant your body doesn't adjust as well to pregnancy. Because of my Gestational Diabetes when my daughter was born she had a low glucose level and wasn't able to regulate her temperature immediately. After being treated by the doctors she was able to do so. She is now a 9lb healthy child. don't worry at all, everything will turn out okay. Another piece of advice is for you to ask as many questions as possible so that you can relax yourself and please eat before evvery doctor's visit. Trust this advice because I know from experience :-} .

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D.Y.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced a few days before my due date with my son (they had wanted to do it 4 days earlier than that but I felt like I was less of a mother if I didn't at least try over the weekend to go naturally). I wish I had induced earlier. I had a 2 day process. First day they did the pitocin thing hoping my body would kick into gear...it didn't. The next day they broke my water. The contractions started pretty quick after that. Go for the drugs. I'm scared of needles and wanted to do it naturally but I'm glad I didn't. The drugs were the best. In the middle of contractions you don't think about the needle. It made life so easy...I took naps, watched t.v., talked on the phone. It was great. My experience with induction was great. Good luck and congrats.

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J.A.

answers from Chicago on

The doctors induced me when I had my daughter last summer. All they did for me was give me an IV of potossin(sp?) which is a hormone to get the contractions started. When they were initially thinking about inducing, I was only dialated about 1-2 cm, but by the time the big day came along, I was at around 3-5cm. Sometimes there are complications if you are not dialated to certain point when they start giving you the hormones. That would be one thing to ask your doctor about (I don't remember the exact numbers). But everything went really well for us. I was at Delnor hospital in Geneva and they asked me what I was planning on doing for pain management. So you still get to do what you want. I had an epidural and it was wonderful. From my experience, all it really did was give the whole process a "kick start."

I know they don't like to you go too long after your due date because the placenta starts to work less efficiently. I think my doctors said they try to go no more than 2 weeks past your due date.

All in all, I had a really good experience with it, and Allison is my first child.

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G.M.

answers from Chicago on

I know you got a lot of advice already, so I'll keep it brief. There is a normal range in pregnancy... look on the mothering magazine website for more info, but the 40 weeks is just an average. We do not always fall into the average, and the fact that the baby is still in the womb at 40 weeks is not really something to be concerned about. You are healthy, and the baby is not desperate to get out! Your body knows what to do. Inducing labor ignores your bodies natural and gradual labor process, and sends you into transition phase immediately. That is not a pleasant way to experience the labor and birth process. The contractions are not "natural", they are forced. I have had 4 children, and they will come when they are ready, trust yourself and your body. There are more natural ways of starting the process- one of them being the way this beautiful baby began it's new little life. :) Hope you can wait. You are in charge.

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S.L.

answers from Chicago on

I was induced on my due date. My water broke but I didn't progress. Everything went well. The contractions started not long after I was given the pitocin. I was in lobor for 10 hours. I was able to have a natural birth too. It sounds scary but it's not. Who knows you might go on time and the doctor might not have to induce. For me it wasn't a big deal. My baby was healthy, I was too. I had the perfect birthing experience and everything I wanted from the start. But you cen choose to wait. Good luck.

S.

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A.B.

answers from Chicago on

My doctor induced my labor with my second child and I really wish he would have with my first. My first child was almost 10 pounds and he didn't want the second one to be as big. The experience was so much better. Because the labor was gradual I was able to sit up ALOT in the rocking chair and that helped so much with the pain and how fast I dialated. I actually felt like I could enjoy the process because everything happened a little at a time. And then when it came time to push I wasn't so exhausted. I would recommend it to anyone because you don't want to wait until the child is so big that you have a really hard time pushing. Congratuaions and good luck.

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S.B.

answers from Chicago on

I've never been induced, but I have had a baby 12 days and 8 days past my due date. Both babies were extremely healthy and 8 1/2 lbs, the same size as my baby born 2 days early.

Usually they will let you go up to 42 weeks. So you don't HAVE to have the baby then if you don't want to. Call them and let them know if you want to wait. I had stress tests after my due date to make sure the baby was ok. Sounds worse than it is - basically relaxing while they monitor you and the baby.

Some natural methods you can use: red raspberry leaf tea (get the real stuff, not just raspberry flavored)and drink at least once a day, evening primrose oil (I think you take a dose a day, but you can probably find on a google search) and walking, walking, walking, walking. Oh yeah, and of course s*x is great for that too.

Try to keep it a conversation (and not just his direction!) between you and your doctor. If there's nothing wrong with you or the baby, the timer doesn't need to go off exactly at 40 weeks.

Good luck!

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