How to Avoid Induced Labor
Monday June 5, 2006
Women's Health Forums: I am 39 weeks pregnant with my second child. My first was born at 41 weeks and I was induced. I had an overall horrible experience with the pitocin
and I ended up needing a c/s. I want to try a vbac this time around, and I'm really hoping that I will go into labor on my own. Are there any natural ways I can help progress things? I don't mind going over my due date, but I really don't want to be induced this time around. I have been doing some squats which have helped the baby engage, but still no dialation or effacement. My cervix has softened...but that's not much progress. I don't want to try anything that is potentially harmful, but my doctor seems to think that if I need to be induced that it shouldn't be a big deal. It's really just a personal preference, and I would like to go naturally without any type of meds. I was also wondering, since I went overdue with my daughter...does that increase my odds of going over 40 weeks this time? And since I never went into labor on my own, will my body react to labor and delivery with this pregnancy as a first? Funny how I feel so clueless with my second pregnancy. Have you ever had induced labor? Do you have advice on how to avoid induced labor?
Comments
Having all 4 of my children with a midwife and not having medical intervention (and being ‘late’ with 2 of my 4), I can only repeat what I was told. What got that baby in there will get the baby out - sex! Also walking, lots of walking. The most important thing is a healthy baby and mommy!
Try sex first, then take castor oil-1 oz. You can mix it with grape juise and baking soda for a cocktail that really works (but it makes you go to the bathroom. Some times you can buy tasteless/odorless castor oil (Walmart). It will usually get you into labor in about 24 hours.
I was induced with both my boys because of preclampsia. While neither birth was ideal, I did have a good experience with both. I can’t help you in avoiding being induced, but if you don’t have a choice I do have a word for you - DOULA! Get one! I can’t even begin to express how grateful I was to the doulas who were there for the births of my boys and how much better they made the experience! They helped keep me calm, comfortable and I think eased much of the pain without drugs.