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We activated our site in July and in Sept. 2007 I was contacted by a wonderful woman who came out to meet us in October. We all formed a great relationship and here we are with a beautiful baby boy who was born in early January. We are so grateful to her for giving us this beautiful son. We plan to see her and her family again and are thankful to ParentProfiles.com more ...
Inducing Labor
Labor induction is a common thing in the medical profession. In fact it is estimated that just over 20 percent of births today are induced for one reason or another. So, if you are one of these moms, don't worry. Below you will find information to help you become prepared for whatever lies ahead.
First, let's look at some of the reasons why labor would be induced. These include:
- Your bag of water breaks, and labor doesn't start on its own.- You are 1-2 weeks past your due date.
- There is some condition or reason that your baby is safer outside of your uterus than in- this could be too little fluid, irregular heartbeat, placenta problems, etc.
- Mom is in danger- such as with high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or preeclampsia.
- You have a history of full-term stillbirth.
Once you and your doctor decide that inducing labor is right for you, you have a few options as to which one will work best for your. Your doctor should be able to steer you in the right direction here. Some of the most popular choices include:
- Stripping of the membranes. Your doctor will manually separate your bag of waters from the lower part of your uterus. This action will help stimulate labor and get things moving.- Using prostaglandin medications- which can help ripen your cervix and stimulate contractions.
- A Foley Bulb- your doctor would insert a catheter into your cervix with a very small balloon at the end of it. The doctor would then inflate the balloon putting pressure on your cervix, causing it to ripen.
- Rupturing the membranes- your doctor will use a hooked instrument to nick your bag of waters causing it to rupture.
- Pitocin- a synthetic form of oxytocin which stimulates labor. They will adjust the amount as your labor progresses.
It is important to discuss all of your options with your health care provider. Some of these options result in stronger contractions and some pain, so research wisely. If inducing attempts fail, you are more likely to need a c-section to remove the baby safely.
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