Re: Should I Be Induced?

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There is a whole host of variables involved in this question, the most important of which is, "How good are your dates?, and "What is your cervix like?" In general, I prefer to have the patient deliver on or before 41 weeks, as the complications begin to rise dramatically at that point, but that is a soft sign, and the cervix needs to be ripe. I begin testing (NSTs and AFIs) at 40 weeks anyway.

>
>*OR is it better to do the testing to see whether the placenta is still
>functioning optimally and labour start on its own?
>
>*One final question: is induction better when breaking of the waters
>(amniotomy) is NOT done at first because I understand that if the baby
>isn't born within 24 hrs. after an amniotomy a caesarean must be done?

There is no need to routinely perform a c/s after 24 hours of ruptured membranes. Amniotomy can be performed if the cervix is favorable, and that is frequently the only "induction" that is required, but should be avoided if the cervix is closed, hard, or the head is not firmly engaged to the cervix. >
>(I've had no health problems so far and the baby seems ok).
>Thanks for the advice.

Induction is another topic in OB that inspires more passion than science, and there are good reasons to go ahead now, wait a week, or whatever, and I have not doubt that you will get to hear them all. Do what you are most comfortable with after an indepth conversation with your doctor.

--
William D. McIntosh, MD
Clarksville, TN

This is for educational purposes only.  It is not intended
 to replace consultation and examination by your physician
 or other health care provider.

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