Aa
Risks of Induction
I think with anything in life there are risks and benefits. But when it comes to your baby's well-being I think it is safe to say that we must take extra precaution. I just came across this article from the University of Rochester Medical Center and thought I would share and get a discussion going.
http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/index.cfm?id=3120
Obviously plenty of women have given birth via induction without a problem but studies have shown the vast majority do not. Induction taxes your body (and baby's body) and even if the outcome is positive (a live baby) it doesn't mean the road to getting that baby didn't have major risks.
I'll pull a few quotes to highlight some main points but definitely go take a read. It is important to educate yourself about the birth of your baby. Trusting your doctor is all well but you must remember that only you can be an advocate for your delivery and the care of baby afterward. Unfortunately there are hidden agendas and fear of litigation that drive physicians to do great harm to women (the opposite of the oath they took when becoming a medical professional). Anyway, on to my quotes:
"In the past decade, scheduled deliveries have become commonplace, with physicians making elective inductions part of their routine obstetric care.
“As a working professional and a mother, I know how tempting it can be to schedule a delivery to try to get your life in order, but there is a reason that babies stay in the womb for the full term,” said Loralei Thornburg, M.D., an assistant professor who specializes in maternal fetal medicine. “Why put you and your newborn at risk if you don’t have to?”
"Researchers found that approximately 34 percent of women who opted for elective induction of labor ultimately had a cesarean section, while only 20 percent of women who labored naturally underwent a cesarean delivery. Like elective induction, cesarean delivery naïvely may be seen as routine and risk-free, when in fact it is a major surgery and like all surgeries increases the risk of infection, respiratory complications, the need for additional surgeries, and results in longer recovery times.
"Though elective inductions are not outside the standard of care, physicians should be cognizant of the associated risks and communicate these risks to women considering the procedure. In an effort to better address this issue at the University of Rochester Medical Center, the department of Maternal Fetal Medicine is applying for a grant to help put procedures in place that will prevent elective induction of labor before 39 weeks.
http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/index.cfm?id=3120
Obviously plenty of women have given birth via induction without a problem but studies have shown the vast majority do not. Induction taxes your body (and baby's body) and even if the outcome is positive (a live baby) it doesn't mean the road to getting that baby didn't have major risks.
I'll pull a few quotes to highlight some main points but definitely go take a read. It is important to educate yourself about the birth of your baby. Trusting your doctor is all well but you must remember that only you can be an advocate for your delivery and the care of baby afterward. Unfortunately there are hidden agendas and fear of litigation that drive physicians to do great harm to women (the opposite of the oath they took when becoming a medical professional). Anyway, on to my quotes:
"In the past decade, scheduled deliveries have become commonplace, with physicians making elective inductions part of their routine obstetric care.
“As a working professional and a mother, I know how tempting it can be to schedule a delivery to try to get your life in order, but there is a reason that babies stay in the womb for the full term,” said Loralei Thornburg, M.D., an assistant professor who specializes in maternal fetal medicine. “Why put you and your newborn at risk if you don’t have to?”
"Researchers found that approximately 34 percent of women who opted for elective induction of labor ultimately had a cesarean section, while only 20 percent of women who labored naturally underwent a cesarean delivery. Like elective induction, cesarean delivery naïvely may be seen as routine and risk-free, when in fact it is a major surgery and like all surgeries increases the risk of infection, respiratory complications, the need for additional surgeries, and results in longer recovery times.
"Though elective inductions are not outside the standard of care, physicians should be cognizant of the associated risks and communicate these risks to women considering the procedure. In an effort to better address this issue at the University of Rochester Medical Center, the department of Maternal Fetal Medicine is applying for a grant to help put procedures in place that will prevent elective induction of labor before 39 weeks.
I agree with this.....although I did get induced myself and had an amazing labour and delivery...my sister who was also induced ended up having an emerg csection, and so did my bosses sister. Thats 2 out of 3 of us that had emerg c sections and were induced...
With my first i had a normal spontaintios labour, which went very well and we both are great. But with this pregnancy I have no choice but to induce. I live to far away from a hospital and with my first labour only being just 4 hours it is in my and my babies best interest to be inducted.
The reason behind this is the risks of having a baby on the side of the road with no cell phone service is alot less than the risks of an inducment.
The dr would like me to be induced at around 37 weeks and has allready set a date even though i am only 24 weeks into this pregnancy.
Im very scared i will end up having to have a c section but have to go with the dr decision as there is nothing else we can do.
Thanks for shairing this info. I found it very very helpful.
The reason behind this is the risks of having a baby on the side of the road with no cell phone service is alot less than the risks of an inducment.
The dr would like me to be induced at around 37 weeks and has allready set a date even though i am only 24 weeks into this pregnancy.
Im very scared i will end up having to have a c section but have to go with the dr decision as there is nothing else we can do.
Thanks for shairing this info. I found it very very helpful.
I agree. How much have they truly studied the drugs they give to women to induce labor? We may not know the effects it could have on the body and baby until many years from now. Why risk it?? I understand, there is a small percentage who may need this and who need c-sections, but far too many elect to be induced for convenience and end up putting themselves and their baby at risk.
I'm sorry but 37 weeks is still early to induce. Do you have any risks which make him think you should be induced at 37 weeks? Is he going to be out-of-town during your 38th, 39th or even 40th week? I don't mean to question you or your doctor but I am just curious as to why he felt 37 weeks was the magical time to do it since baby's lungs can still be immature at 37 weeks. There is discussion about making 38 weeks+ full term because of this.
I definitely believe that there are cases for induction and I'm NOT saying you're making a bad call. Sometimes distance can be a safety issue. I just would question the 37-week mark if you have no risks or reasons for having baby before 38 weeks. If you don't mind my unsolicited advice I'd ask the doctor about inducing during the 39th week. You may have an easier induction the further along you are and the more prepared your body is to go into labor. And if you do want a more natural birth you can see if they'll break your water and allow you to labor before introducing Pitocin. I understand not everyone is into natural birth but I am throwing that out there in case you were interested in natural birth.
You ultimately need to go with what you feel is the best route and I wish you many blessings.
I definitely believe that there are cases for induction and I'm NOT saying you're making a bad call. Sometimes distance can be a safety issue. I just would question the 37-week mark if you have no risks or reasons for having baby before 38 weeks. If you don't mind my unsolicited advice I'd ask the doctor about inducing during the 39th week. You may have an easier induction the further along you are and the more prepared your body is to go into labor. And if you do want a more natural birth you can see if they'll break your water and allow you to labor before introducing Pitocin. I understand not everyone is into natural birth but I am throwing that out there in case you were interested in natural birth.
You ultimately need to go with what you feel is the best route and I wish you many blessings.
Well, I didn't read the article, but trust my doctor with my life. He has been my dr. since I was 15 (I am now 35) and has delivered all 6 of my kids. And he will deliver this one as well. I have been induced twice by my own choice to make sure he was present at the birth. I didn't want a dr. I had never met delivering my baby. And I am sure my dr.'s colleagues are just fine. He wouldn't work with them if they weren't but that is just my preference.
My worst experience was with my 3rd child and I WAS NOT induced. I labored mostly by myself at home all day. I was 8 cm by the time I got to the hospital and that IS NOT what I wanted. Why did this happen?? Because I went into labor on a Sunday and my dr. was not on call so I was sent home after one hour with no progression. This was my 3rd child and only 2 days from my due date. I KNEW I was in labor. Thus doing most of the work at home, and again, that is not what I wanted. Anyone that wants to go naturally and experience all that pain, well more power to them. And I mean that with all my heart. No sarcasm intended, but I don't want to feel all that pain. It just isn't necessary, in my book, when there are other options. I don't feel like less of a woman for preferring an epidural and my husband sure doesn't look at me as less of one. Heck, I wouldn't care if he did but he is SUPER proud of me for giving birth to all of these children. All of my children have been very healthy, etc. And Pitocin is something our body produces naturally anyway. In fact, it won't show up on an autopsy because of that very reason. I saw that on a documentary.
As I said, I did not read the article, but there will always be studies on both sides. If it weren't considered safe to induce, it wouldn't be done. Are there risks?? Yes, there are risks to anything; even walking to check the mail. There are also risks to home births, etc. Not something I would do, but many people do. What I am trying to say is that as much research that is out there that might say inductions are bad or risky, there will be just as much to say otherwise.
In the end, you have to do what you feel is best for yourself, your baby, and your family. That answer will be different for everyone. It is also important to trust your health care provider.
My worst experience was with my 3rd child and I WAS NOT induced. I labored mostly by myself at home all day. I was 8 cm by the time I got to the hospital and that IS NOT what I wanted. Why did this happen?? Because I went into labor on a Sunday and my dr. was not on call so I was sent home after one hour with no progression. This was my 3rd child and only 2 days from my due date. I KNEW I was in labor. Thus doing most of the work at home, and again, that is not what I wanted. Anyone that wants to go naturally and experience all that pain, well more power to them. And I mean that with all my heart. No sarcasm intended, but I don't want to feel all that pain. It just isn't necessary, in my book, when there are other options. I don't feel like less of a woman for preferring an epidural and my husband sure doesn't look at me as less of one. Heck, I wouldn't care if he did but he is SUPER proud of me for giving birth to all of these children. All of my children have been very healthy, etc. And Pitocin is something our body produces naturally anyway. In fact, it won't show up on an autopsy because of that very reason. I saw that on a documentary.
As I said, I did not read the article, but there will always be studies on both sides. If it weren't considered safe to induce, it wouldn't be done. Are there risks?? Yes, there are risks to anything; even walking to check the mail. There are also risks to home births, etc. Not something I would do, but many people do. What I am trying to say is that as much research that is out there that might say inductions are bad or risky, there will be just as much to say otherwise.
In the end, you have to do what you feel is best for yourself, your baby, and your family. That answer will be different for everyone. It is also important to trust your health care provider.
I haven't read the article either as i'm in the middle of cooking dinner at the same time, but I think that it's the mothers choice too whether to be induce, i wasn't with my first but due to having diabetes this time around i'm sure i will be as much as i would like a spontaneous labour it's just not going to happen also, i live quite a distance from the hospital where i'll be delivering so knowing that i'm going to be there the whole time is of comfort too, also another note being in australia too we have the midwifes do all the inducing well mainly and the ob is either there when a person has private health insurance or there is a problem during the labour.
I apreciate the concern and absolutly love the fact i have someone other than myself to dicuss this with.
It has been a major worry this whole pregnancy. As i said my first labour was great and i was very upset io couldnt do the same again, but we have to do whats best in the long run.
where i live its very much a farmer town. I live and work on a HUGE property and will be due right in the middle of the biggest harvest we have had in over 20 years. ( great timing i know). My husband and family will have to leave me to do harvest when im 39 weeks.
I know to most people it sound like a very far out thing to go but it is the life we choose.
I will always do whats best for my baby ( even if it happenes to hinder me).
I absolutly would love a natural birth.. Hate the fact i have to get medical interventions to help me along the way and will be airing all this to my midwife.
Another thing they are worryied about is the fact of a still birth. I really have no idea why as its not hereditory at all but my mother has had two and both aunties have had a still birth each...
i will certainly ask to get my waters broken before any other action is taken ..
I will be satying in the hospital for about 8 days before had to insure i get all the tests needed to make sure my boy s lungs are developing..
Just to let you know im due 1st july but getting induced 17th june..
2 early. So i correct myself a bit as ill be 38 weeks...
It has been a major worry this whole pregnancy. As i said my first labour was great and i was very upset io couldnt do the same again, but we have to do whats best in the long run.
where i live its very much a farmer town. I live and work on a HUGE property and will be due right in the middle of the biggest harvest we have had in over 20 years. ( great timing i know). My husband and family will have to leave me to do harvest when im 39 weeks.
I know to most people it sound like a very far out thing to go but it is the life we choose.
I will always do whats best for my baby ( even if it happenes to hinder me).
I absolutly would love a natural birth.. Hate the fact i have to get medical interventions to help me along the way and will be airing all this to my midwife.
Another thing they are worryied about is the fact of a still birth. I really have no idea why as its not hereditory at all but my mother has had two and both aunties have had a still birth each...
i will certainly ask to get my waters broken before any other action is taken ..
I will be satying in the hospital for about 8 days before had to insure i get all the tests needed to make sure my boy s lungs are developing..
Just to let you know im due 1st july but getting induced 17th june..
2 early. So i correct myself a bit as ill be 38 weeks...
I have to say I am on the side of induction too as I have had one for my own health at 38 weeks. I lived far from the hospital...1.5 hours and have never made it to term with any of my children. I also had a lot of complications throughout my pregnancy. Last pregnancy I had 7 ultrasounds, bleeding, 2 cardiac monitors, 2 ambulance rides, passed out at work, hypotension, kidney stones that got me a nice MRI and 3 days hospital stay, etc. I think getting him born was the best thing for him! He ended up being 8lbs 8 ounces at 14 days early. They said I probably wouldn't have had him vaginally at term, so it saved me from a c-section. Also since I saw people advocating home birth and midwives I must say that my first two children would have died if born at home. I believe the hospital is there to help us. It is every woman's choice, but I trust everyone will consider the risks of at home birth as much as this topic. I am pregnant again with very different issues this time (crazy I know). I wish everyone out there a happy and healthy pregnancy!
I'm not really for or against induction, for whatever the reason may be for it. I think if it's an elective induction at 38+ weeks, and the doctor and patient agree it's safe to do and want it to be done, then go for it.
I have two kids and both of my labors were induced. My first labor was induced at 39 weeks for nothing more than the sake of convenience, as my son was due the week before finals and I was a college student. I didn't want to miss that week because getting the notes and studies for the finals were critical to me. I had a low to no risk pregnancy and I did not want to be taking finals that were rescheduled over my winter break. Sorry if that sounds selfish, but I didn't want any extra moment of my time taken away from my baby in his first four weeks of life because I was setting him aside to study for finals and rescheduling extra hours to get back to school to take them. I was induced on a Wednesday and was back in school on Monday. The following week I took the finals and I had my full three weeks of winter break totally uniterrupted to bond with my baby. I wouldn't change a thing.
With my second, I went into preterm labor at 33 weeks and was hospitalized three times and put on bed rest between then and my induction at 38 weeks. By the time I was 37 weeks, I was in so much pain that I could barely get up to walk. To be honest, I wanted to induce at 37 weeks, but my OB required me to wait until 38 weeks unless I went naturally from the preterm labor. By the time I got to 38 weeks, I needed help walking at some points because that's how much pain I was in, and I wasn't lucky enough to get any prescription pain killers, so I was depending on Tylenol, which was doing nothing for me. An induction at this point was more than welcome. And because I'd been in preterm labor for five weeks, my labor was really fast. My baby was also eight pounds when he was born, so I wonder how much he would've weighed if I'd gone past 38 weeks. Again, with that experience, I wouldn't change and don't regret a thing.
I do, however, hope and pray that I can have a completely natural labor if I get a third chance. I'd love to have that experience and, even though I know I've made the right decisions for myself and my family with my last two labors, I feel like I'd miss out on something wonderful and extraordinary if I don't get a natural labor at some point.
I have two kids and both of my labors were induced. My first labor was induced at 39 weeks for nothing more than the sake of convenience, as my son was due the week before finals and I was a college student. I didn't want to miss that week because getting the notes and studies for the finals were critical to me. I had a low to no risk pregnancy and I did not want to be taking finals that were rescheduled over my winter break. Sorry if that sounds selfish, but I didn't want any extra moment of my time taken away from my baby in his first four weeks of life because I was setting him aside to study for finals and rescheduling extra hours to get back to school to take them. I was induced on a Wednesday and was back in school on Monday. The following week I took the finals and I had my full three weeks of winter break totally uniterrupted to bond with my baby. I wouldn't change a thing.
With my second, I went into preterm labor at 33 weeks and was hospitalized three times and put on bed rest between then and my induction at 38 weeks. By the time I was 37 weeks, I was in so much pain that I could barely get up to walk. To be honest, I wanted to induce at 37 weeks, but my OB required me to wait until 38 weeks unless I went naturally from the preterm labor. By the time I got to 38 weeks, I needed help walking at some points because that's how much pain I was in, and I wasn't lucky enough to get any prescription pain killers, so I was depending on Tylenol, which was doing nothing for me. An induction at this point was more than welcome. And because I'd been in preterm labor for five weeks, my labor was really fast. My baby was also eight pounds when he was born, so I wonder how much he would've weighed if I'd gone past 38 weeks. Again, with that experience, I wouldn't change and don't regret a thing.
I do, however, hope and pray that I can have a completely natural labor if I get a third chance. I'd love to have that experience and, even though I know I've made the right decisions for myself and my family with my last two labors, I feel like I'd miss out on something wonderful and extraordinary if I don't get a natural labor at some point.
My mother was induced for me over 21 years ago, obviously not having as good of medical care as they do today and never had any problems. I was born vaginally after 6 hours of labor. I think if the woman knows the risks involved and has done her own research, then she can make that decision for herself. There are risks involved with child birth no matter what, so it's going to come down to what the mother is most comfortable with. I do think there are circumstances where induction is better than waiting for natural delivery in some cases and would never tell a woman to not have an induction.
I have to say I agree with the risks associated with inductions. But I also have to say that I was induced at almost 38 wks.. (37.5 to be exact) My labor was awfully painful but only lasted 10 hrs long. The reason to my induction was preeclampsia.... While I wish I couldve been given the chance to go naturally. But I still wouldnt change anything, bc it was out of my control. That being said... I want a natural delivery with my son, but if my husband is going to be away for days at a time, it would be best to deliver the baby with his by my side, yes "planned" bc I wouldnt want anyone else to be there in place of him. I wouldnt do it any earlier then 39 wks. And If he wont be working away for days at a time, then If I get to my due date I wouldnt go any farther then 41 wks bc I DO NOT want to push out a 10 lb child. Yes induction has its own risks, but to each thier own i guess.
Thank you all for sharing your stories and experiences without getting upset with one thing or another! Induction ultimately is not safe for mother or baby but there are definitely instances when the benefits outweigh the risks. I think the problem I have with it is that most OBs schedule inductions with absolutely no medical reasons whatsoever which puts unnecessary risk on mom and baby. Hard to discuss it if people don't read the article to see where I'm coming from. Induction of a low-risk woman with no prior issues could lead to a birth that is not favorable for her or baby when she may have had a great birth had she been allowed to wait. This is just what the studies and statistics show. The truth is the truth no matter who is writing the article.
There will always be two sides of the fence in any issue; those who have inductions that end up well and those who do not (and studies show there are far more of the latter).
Lemena - home birth has been proven to be safer than hospital birth for low-risk women who have a medical professional present (in those cases a CNM or CPM). Hospitals and OBs are very good to have on hand for those who are high-risk or have complications or just for women who feel safer under the care of one. No one is denying that. But I think people should do some research and gain information before making blanket statements that home birth is not safe. It is not for everyone, like Michele said above, and that is fine. It sounds like you do have complicated pregnancies and births so induction can be very right for you; I'm not saying it isn't right EVER. I'm just stating it is risky, especially for those who are scheduled for it for no medical reason.
I have never given birth at home. But my last birth was with midwives at a hospital. My husband wanted the safety net of the hospital and I wanted the care of midwives for my birth and this was the perfect compromise. I didn't mind being at the hospital though I would LOVE to give birth at home or at a freestanding birth center this time if we are able. We're looking into our options now. Otherwise I think I'll be fine sticking with my midwives at the hospital.
AHP- If natural birth is what you want then I desperately hope it for you as well. Are you pregnant or trying? Natural birth is always possible. And I want to encourage you that even 10-lb babies can be born vaginally and safely. It has more to do with what position you're pushing in. If you're on your back in bed pushing it narrows the pelvis about 25-30%. I like many of the points you made.
Kelli- If you're there for 8 days before the induction perhaps they can do a membrane sweep about 5-6 days into your stay (if baby's lungs are well of course). This may begin natural labor for you as well. Breaking your water can also help that along. The more "natural" the induction techniques the better off for you. Ultimately there are still risks but I'm sure you know all of that. Don't feel like you're making a bad choice because I brought this up. I definitely do not judge you (or anyone else for that matter).
There will always be two sides of the fence in any issue; those who have inductions that end up well and those who do not (and studies show there are far more of the latter).
Lemena - home birth has been proven to be safer than hospital birth for low-risk women who have a medical professional present (in those cases a CNM or CPM). Hospitals and OBs are very good to have on hand for those who are high-risk or have complications or just for women who feel safer under the care of one. No one is denying that. But I think people should do some research and gain information before making blanket statements that home birth is not safe. It is not for everyone, like Michele said above, and that is fine. It sounds like you do have complicated pregnancies and births so induction can be very right for you; I'm not saying it isn't right EVER. I'm just stating it is risky, especially for those who are scheduled for it for no medical reason.
I have never given birth at home. But my last birth was with midwives at a hospital. My husband wanted the safety net of the hospital and I wanted the care of midwives for my birth and this was the perfect compromise. I didn't mind being at the hospital though I would LOVE to give birth at home or at a freestanding birth center this time if we are able. We're looking into our options now. Otherwise I think I'll be fine sticking with my midwives at the hospital.
AHP- If natural birth is what you want then I desperately hope it for you as well. Are you pregnant or trying? Natural birth is always possible. And I want to encourage you that even 10-lb babies can be born vaginally and safely. It has more to do with what position you're pushing in. If you're on your back in bed pushing it narrows the pelvis about 25-30%. I like many of the points you made.
Kelli- If you're there for 8 days before the induction perhaps they can do a membrane sweep about 5-6 days into your stay (if baby's lungs are well of course). This may begin natural labor for you as well. Breaking your water can also help that along. The more "natural" the induction techniques the better off for you. Ultimately there are still risks but I'm sure you know all of that. Don't feel like you're making a bad choice because I brought this up. I definitely do not judge you (or anyone else for that matter).
Julia- now THAT is a necessary, medical reason to induce (pre-eclampsia). Thank you for sharing your story! I pray you get to have your natural birth next time around if at all possible. You can still have a "natural" induction. That's kind of an oxymoron, LOL! But if you have your water broken or membranes swept and they leave you alone to go into labor you just may be able to have that natural birth and avoid drugs.
My last was a natural birth and while it was painful it was the most amazing experience. My two epidural births I regret. I wish I had gone natural with them; it would have been best for me and for them. However I can't live in regret. I cherish their births for the positive moments and strive to work toward advocating natural birth for others and strive to continue to have natural births myself. But I want to encourage women who DO get epidurals or inductions that they can still make choices and have a great experience (if it isn't what they want).
Michele, so long as you are happy and satisfied with your births is what matters. ;-) Anyone who judges you for loving your induction births and epidurals is not a very kind person and I apologize on behalf of natural birth advocates, some of whom DO make women feel guilty and like crud for the choices they make. It's like with any mom issue (breast versus bottle, for example) we need to support one another in our decisions. My only point is to educate those interested in natural birth; not force it on others or make others feel guilty for not wanting/liking it.
My last was a natural birth and while it was painful it was the most amazing experience. My two epidural births I regret. I wish I had gone natural with them; it would have been best for me and for them. However I can't live in regret. I cherish their births for the positive moments and strive to work toward advocating natural birth for others and strive to continue to have natural births myself. But I want to encourage women who DO get epidurals or inductions that they can still make choices and have a great experience (if it isn't what they want).
Michele, so long as you are happy and satisfied with your births is what matters. ;-) Anyone who judges you for loving your induction births and epidurals is not a very kind person and I apologize on behalf of natural birth advocates, some of whom DO make women feel guilty and like crud for the choices they make. It's like with any mom issue (breast versus bottle, for example) we need to support one another in our decisions. My only point is to educate those interested in natural birth; not force it on others or make others feel guilty for not wanting/liking it.
Thank You Joy!!! I sure hope so too! I want to try to "naturally" induce... walking, BD, pineapple, spicy foods... lol.
Thanks Joy. ☺
No, I'm not pregnant and not actively ttc right now either, lol. We're not quite ready for another baby just yet, financially and otherwise. We are most likely going to start trying for our third child in about three years, when my husband is well established into a career (he hasn't graduated college yet) and we're able to move into a bigger house. Right now we're living in a home that's less than 1000 sq ft, lol...I don't even know where we'd put another baby right now, lol!
I really wanted to have a natural birth with my second son, but I didn't expect the preterm labor. That changed everything. Going through five weeks of labor that ranged from very strong and needing to be hospitalized three times to fairly mild while on bedrest but still uncomfortable and painful is an experience I'd wish on no one. I never in my wildest dreams thought labor could last for five weeks. It was miserable, especially the hospitalizations. When I was taken off the Procardia at 36 weeks, my OB and everyone else thought I'd deliver before 37 weeks, but my little guy stayed put--and the pain got worse by the day. By 37 weeks, I just could not mentally handle any more. I was a miserable wreck. I did want to have a drug free, naturaly birth...but my delivery was so fast and I didn't really have anyone to coach me through it. Although my epidural never had a chance to kick in and I basically had a natural birth, it wasn't what I wanted. They made my lie on my back even though I was screaming that it hurt and I wanted to sit up. I think that's the reason I got a 2nd degree tear. I still don't regret the induction, though. I just regret that I didn't have more understanding medical staff during my delivery who would work with me to give me what I wanted.
With my first induction, I just had very little knowledge about labor and delivery. I think back on it now and I wonder how things would've turned out if I had waited to naturally deliver. I don't regret the induction, but I do wonder how different things may have gone.
If and/or when I have my third, I want to get a midwife and try to do everything as naturally as possible.
No, I'm not pregnant and not actively ttc right now either, lol. We're not quite ready for another baby just yet, financially and otherwise. We are most likely going to start trying for our third child in about three years, when my husband is well established into a career (he hasn't graduated college yet) and we're able to move into a bigger house. Right now we're living in a home that's less than 1000 sq ft, lol...I don't even know where we'd put another baby right now, lol!
I really wanted to have a natural birth with my second son, but I didn't expect the preterm labor. That changed everything. Going through five weeks of labor that ranged from very strong and needing to be hospitalized three times to fairly mild while on bedrest but still uncomfortable and painful is an experience I'd wish on no one. I never in my wildest dreams thought labor could last for five weeks. It was miserable, especially the hospitalizations. When I was taken off the Procardia at 36 weeks, my OB and everyone else thought I'd deliver before 37 weeks, but my little guy stayed put--and the pain got worse by the day. By 37 weeks, I just could not mentally handle any more. I was a miserable wreck. I did want to have a drug free, naturaly birth...but my delivery was so fast and I didn't really have anyone to coach me through it. Although my epidural never had a chance to kick in and I basically had a natural birth, it wasn't what I wanted. They made my lie on my back even though I was screaming that it hurt and I wanted to sit up. I think that's the reason I got a 2nd degree tear. I still don't regret the induction, though. I just regret that I didn't have more understanding medical staff during my delivery who would work with me to give me what I wanted.
With my first induction, I just had very little knowledge about labor and delivery. I think back on it now and I wonder how things would've turned out if I had waited to naturally deliver. I don't regret the induction, but I do wonder how different things may have gone.
If and/or when I have my third, I want to get a midwife and try to do everything as naturally as possible.
Joy, it's great that you want people to be informed and that you think it's best to do everything natural(want a home birth, no drugs, etc), but I don't think you should be pushing women to do as you think is right. Let women decide for themselves on what they want to do with their pregnancies. You are in a position of "higher power" on this board and can influence other women, so you need to think about that before talking about how natural birth is the best way to go for the mother and her baby. Some people want to be induced and others want to deliver by c-section. That is their choice to make and they can do just that. My mother chose to be induced for me to be born before her OB left for a week, as she only wanted him for her doctor, not for any medical reason. And this was years and years ago, which had no complications. If induction was not safe, it would not be done at all. It's passed through clinical trials and all of that long ago to be considered safe for women to do. It's great that you love to do things naturally, but other women want to be induced and they can certainly do that, without needing a reason to prove why.
I had DD 3 months ago and we were planning on inducing at 39 weeks so that DH could be there and bc she was afraid that DD was going to be too big. Then she was worried bc I had SPD to the point I could barely walk and was going into preterm labor. She had to reschedule my 38w appt and that night I went into labor on my own and had my baby the following morning. She was 7 pounds and I labored for 18 hours and she got stuck. My pelvis didn't widen enough until I was in labor and I was in excruciating pain even with the epidural. I'm afraid that if I would have had to wait until the following week to deliver her that I would have had to have an emergency c section as she would have been too big for my body to deliver her vaginally. As it was, I had a painful and long delivery, but I am thankful that she came before the induction. My midwife didn't even want to schedule one as she had a feeling she wouldn't make it to the date and neither did I. I had a gut feeling the entire pregnancy that she would be born around the 10th of Dec, and she came on the 9th. Mother's intuition?
I also live an hour away from the hospital. I have been induced with all 3 of my pregnancies and they were all at 39 weeks.I had no complications, my labors werent long at all. I have seen my doctor since i was 14 and couldnt imagine some stranger i didnt know or trust delivering my baby. I will take an induction if offered one this time as well. My longest labor was my first 7 hours. I wouldnt change my labor experiences for the world. Epidurals have risks and women still have them.
sweetpea, thank you for expressing your opinion. I am not pushing any beliefs on anyone. I am merely sharing medical information and people are definitely free to choose the best route for them. If you actually READ everything I've written you will know that I always tell women to educate themselves and make the choices that are right for them. I am not on any higher level of power here except to make sure people follow the rules; that's it. I am a member just like everyone else and I'm free to express my personal opinions. I am not a MedHelp staff member, I am not paid. Just a regular member with the same membership as you.
I do favor natural birth but I am not opposed to other options whatsoever. I honestly do not think you've read everything I've written here as I just said I have never had a home birth and probably won't have one this time. My midwives are at a *hospital*. I do advocate natural birth and I am not going to stop advocating the safest route for mother and baby. Neither will I judge anyone for the choices they make for THEIR birth. I only provide the data and women can make their own choice. As long as mommy and daddy are satisfied and at peace with their choices I'm so very happy for them. Please do re-read everything I wrote above so you understand that as I do not want to be taken out-of-context or misunderstood. And actually, in America, unsafe practices are done every single solitary day and not just on the maternity ward. Just because someone was in a car wreck and survived without wearing their seat belt doesn't mean seat belts don't save lives. Just because a few people have perfectly safe inductions doesn't mean women are put through emergency cesareans that could have otherwise been prevented. I highly recommend the book Pushed by Jennifer Block.
NicoleW- I definitely believe in mother's intuition, LOL! When I was pregnant with my firstborn we got out a calendar and everyone put their guesses on which day my daughter would be born. Whoever won would get a gift card. Guess who won? That's right - ME! I guessed the time of day and the date. Didn't plan it, actually forgot about the contest until I realized I won and got the gift card. Hubby and I had our first date after her birth using that gift card!
mamaof4410 - yes, epidurals are risky and women still get them. I only ask that women weigh the risks and make the right choices for themselves. I have had two epidural births and THANKFULLY didn't end up needing a cesarean and was able to push them out without forceps or vacuum. Putting evidence-based studies out there doesn't mean I am telling you that the choices you make are *wrong* but to weigh the risks with the benefits. Good luck with your upcoming birth!
I do favor natural birth but I am not opposed to other options whatsoever. I honestly do not think you've read everything I've written here as I just said I have never had a home birth and probably won't have one this time. My midwives are at a *hospital*. I do advocate natural birth and I am not going to stop advocating the safest route for mother and baby. Neither will I judge anyone for the choices they make for THEIR birth. I only provide the data and women can make their own choice. As long as mommy and daddy are satisfied and at peace with their choices I'm so very happy for them. Please do re-read everything I wrote above so you understand that as I do not want to be taken out-of-context or misunderstood. And actually, in America, unsafe practices are done every single solitary day and not just on the maternity ward. Just because someone was in a car wreck and survived without wearing their seat belt doesn't mean seat belts don't save lives. Just because a few people have perfectly safe inductions doesn't mean women are put through emergency cesareans that could have otherwise been prevented. I highly recommend the book Pushed by Jennifer Block.
NicoleW- I definitely believe in mother's intuition, LOL! When I was pregnant with my firstborn we got out a calendar and everyone put their guesses on which day my daughter would be born. Whoever won would get a gift card. Guess who won? That's right - ME! I guessed the time of day and the date. Didn't plan it, actually forgot about the contest until I realized I won and got the gift card. Hubby and I had our first date after her birth using that gift card!
mamaof4410 - yes, epidurals are risky and women still get them. I only ask that women weigh the risks and make the right choices for themselves. I have had two epidural births and THANKFULLY didn't end up needing a cesarean and was able to push them out without forceps or vacuum. Putting evidence-based studies out there doesn't mean I am telling you that the choices you make are *wrong* but to weigh the risks with the benefits. Good luck with your upcoming birth!
AHP- I'm glad you don't regret it and that everything turned out alright. Do you have a different medical team this time? Perhaps one that is more sensitive to your needs and history? Sometimes induction truly is necessary. Being in labor for 5 weeks is just too hard on mom and baby. It truly is. If a mom is losing it and she needs help it's okay to ask for it. I couldn't handle the pain my first two births and got epidurals. Does it make me weak? No, it doesn't. I just didn't know what to expect or how to cope (and none of the staff seemed to care to help me cope more naturally). My firstborn I didn't get to hold right away because they gave me Morphine the night before to induce labor and it caused her to poop in utero. Meconium can be dangerous if baby aspirates it (they can actually die or become very ill; luckily she didn't aspirate it). My second daughter's collarbone broke during her birth because I was on my back AND the doctor was pulling on her even though her report later showed no indication of shoulder dystocia (being stuck). She had been waiting around all day for me to give birth and I think she was just tired and ready to go home by that point so she pulled the baby out of me instead of letting me push.
So anyway that is my story on the first two and why I didn't appreciate others taking my labors and deliveries into their own hands. My baby got hurt (we didn't even know her collarbone was broken until the next day when the pediatrician came to check her out- and he was TICKED that it had happened in the first place) and that is just inexcusable what the doctor did during her birth.
So anyway that is my story on the first two and why I didn't appreciate others taking my labors and deliveries into their own hands. My baby got hurt (we didn't even know her collarbone was broken until the next day when the pediatrician came to check her out- and he was TICKED that it had happened in the first place) and that is just inexcusable what the doctor did during her birth.
And the risks are there. i would rather have taken the risk than risk having my baby in the middle of rush hour traffic alone.That was my point. Everything we do ultimately has risks, I feel very comfortable with the choice I made as should you. I would never get an epidural because of the risks and Im afraid of that needle.lol But thank you for putting the risks out there with the inductions.
And thank YOU for understanding where I am coming from. I care so much for the women on this board that I literally just think of all of you all day and pray for safe deliveries (however those deliveries come about). I care about the women here and I care about their babies. I share this out of love, not out of a feeling of superiority or wanting to control anyone or tell them what to do.
If I NEEDED an induction I would get one especially if it meant avoiding a cesarean. While I might still end up with a cesarean during an induction at least I TRIED a vaginal delivery. I definitely understand. I think people are misunderstanding me and that I'm totally anti-hospital, anti-doctor, anti-drugs and the truth is that I only want women to understand the risks. Doctors are supposed to give you information about both risk and benefit but they rarely ever do. No one told me ANY risks for a cesarean and I was expected to sign a consent form (in the event of emergency) while in the throes of labor?
Anyway yes, I do understand that all things in life carry risk. I believe that was in the very first sentence I wrote when I posted this. ;-) But knowing there are risks and knowing what the actual risks may be are two very different things.
Thank you again for sharing your insight and experiences!
If I NEEDED an induction I would get one especially if it meant avoiding a cesarean. While I might still end up with a cesarean during an induction at least I TRIED a vaginal delivery. I definitely understand. I think people are misunderstanding me and that I'm totally anti-hospital, anti-doctor, anti-drugs and the truth is that I only want women to understand the risks. Doctors are supposed to give you information about both risk and benefit but they rarely ever do. No one told me ANY risks for a cesarean and I was expected to sign a consent form (in the event of emergency) while in the throes of labor?
Anyway yes, I do understand that all things in life carry risk. I believe that was in the very first sentence I wrote when I posted this. ;-) But knowing there are risks and knowing what the actual risks may be are two very different things.
Thank you again for sharing your insight and experiences!
Have an Answer?
You are reading content posted in the Pregnancy Community
Get information and tips on how to help you choose the right place to deliver your baby.
Get the facts on how twins and multiples are formed and your chance of carrying more than one baby at a time.
Learn about the risks and benefits of circumcision.
What to expect during the first hours after delivery.
Learn about early screening and test options for your pregnancy.
Learn about testing and treatment for GBS bacterium.
