Re: worried about induction

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I am not a doctor, so I'll just write my opinion and hope other people can help you out some more.

First of all, let me assure you that there is a sound medical reason for induction at this point. You really don't want to go over 42 weeks because the risk of placental failure and meconium in amniotic fluid really increases after that. You are being induced at 41 weeks 2 days, which gives you a couple of days for latitude. The following paragraphs only apply if you are trying to avoid a c-section.

I would really try and use those days to soften up your cervix. Mentally prepare yourself to be in a hospital for a while and ask your doctor not to hurry. It's OK to be in a hospital for 2-3 days before birth - bring your own pillow, a novel or two, a crafting project, and pick someone to relief your partner if things take long. You may be done in 5 hours, but don't count on it and don't stress. Slow progress after induction is NOT a sign that something is wrong, just a sign that you are taking your time and everything is well.

Ask your doctor about putting a gel into your cervix and leaving it there for 12 hours. If no change in the cervix is observed, ask for another gel application and just be patient. It will eventually work and give you at least a little bit of effacement/dialation. Then the doc can start you on pitocin. It may work right away, or you may get 12 hours of pitocin, 12 hours of rest, and then 12 hours more of pitocin. Do NOT let the doctor break your water until you are in the midst of very well established labor (5 cm or more). Breaking the water puts you on a 24 hour c-section clock (i.e. the baby has to come out one way or another 24 hours after the waters break). If your body is responding to pitocin sluggishly, see if you can hold off on the epidural until 5 cm or later because it tends to slow down labor.

I think if you stick to that plan, you will maximize your chances for vaginal birth.

Good luck to you,

--
Katya (not a doctor, just a biochemist)

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