To induce or not to induce... That is the question

[sherwins.girl]

So I have 9 days until my due date.. I had an appt today and am only 2 cm dialated and having very irregluar contractions..

The doctor offered to schedule an induction if I wanted and I was hesitant.. So she said lets see you back in a week and if nothing has changed we can induce you the next day..

There are benefits to being induced this time around.. 1) We can tell Robbys mom when to be here to watch the boys  2) Robby can let his work know exactly when he will need to be out 3) There isnt the worry that it will happen in the middle of the night when I look like poo  lol

But then theres the part of induction that scares me.. I had both the boys naturally.. I mean, they came on their own time and I had no pain meds of any kind..  My fear with an induction is is that it will take longer to progress and be more painful, which in turn will lead to an epidural.. 

Im not sure what it is about an epidural that scares me so much.. The giant needle in your back or whether or not it will indeed work..

Robby says I should opt for the induction based on the convenience.. I see his point but at the same time Im not sure what to do...  Anyone have any advice???

[busywithkids]

Apr. 28, 2009 at 8:51 PM

I was induced with my first son (I had preeclamsia).  Going from nothing to hard contractions was rough.  I have heard that the contractions are vastly different when on pitocin.

My second was more natural--I labored at home most of the day,  and went into the hospital just a few hours before I delivered.  The pain was more manageable at home.  Once in the hospital for my induction,  I was on the belly band, they put a probe into my sons scalp,  bottom line is you can't move at all.

As for the epidural,  I was a fan of them. I was very glad that I was able to rest until it was time to push,  I was able to push efficiently and didn't have any problems with either epidural that I had.

Regardless of what everyone else says, you make the choices that feel comfortable for you.  Happy pushing, momma!

[KTMOM]

Apr. 28, 2009 at 9:10 PM You definitely need to go wit your gut and what you feel is best and safest for you and the baby. I personally would wait for natural labor but that is just me.... I just want you and this little one to be safe and healthy.

[Collegevillemom]

Apr. 28, 2009 at 9:56 PM

Tough decision. I was offered to be induced with my son and had it scheduled. I never ended up needing to be induced though because he came on his own before that appointment. I was going to have them do it though. I guess do what feels right and if you are unsure of it-trust your instincts although anymore it is so routine and safe. I admire the bravery of no epidural, but for me I wanted one right away and was thankful for it. I don't think I am very helpful on this, but I understand your worry. So close now mama-you must be very excited. Can't wait to see some pics.