This post has been in the works for over 2 years! I was induced with my son at 39 weeks. I was "softening" and not even a one. My dr. told me nothing of the possible outcomes. She led me to believe that I'd be induced, the baby would come out no problems and we would all be happy and move on. It's a LIE! Yes, it works out this way for some. I have a dear friend that was induced for her 3 children (2 births) and everything went beautifully! But for that one friend I have that things worked out for, I have 5 that it didn't. Here are some things to think about before you consider inducing.
*God made our babies and our bodies to work together and signal when they are both ready for baby to come into the world. This allows time for our bodies to ready themselves and prepare for a quicker and less painful birth and also allows babies brains and lungs to fully develop so they are ready for life on the outside.
* Inductions where Pitocin and/or Cyotec are used are births that are more likely to -
- have issues with the baby's health during labor or birth (increased heart rate, shoulder dystocia, unfavorable positioning, fetal distress).
- have forceps/vacuum use during the pushing stage
- have baby admitted to the NICU since their bodies have not yet signaled to Mom's body that they are ready to be here.
- have jaundice or be premature
- end in a C-section.
* If you are still considering being induced, do your homework. There's something called a Bishop Score. It will help your provider decide if you would be a more or less successful induction. I wish I had known about this with L! I could've taken one look at it and realized that I was on the very bottom end of the scale and was in the most likely category to end up with an unnecessary C-section.
Always do your research and weigh your options with your healthcare provider. If you are told you must be induced ask why. Talk about the risks and benefits of both sides and decide what is right for you!!
