For many women, the though of inducing labor is frightening. However, it is sometimes required to be sure the baby is born healthy or to prevent complications for the mother. When done correctly, an induced labor can relieve a lot of the stress and uncertainty caused by wondering when the baby will be born and whether he or she will be healthy upon delivery.
There are several reasons why labor is induced. Here are the most common:
- The pregnancy has gone past 42 weeks.
- After 42 weeks, the placenta will no longer supply enough oxygen and food to the unborn child, so the baby must be delivered.
- The mother has high blood pressure.
- This can lead to eclampsia, which is a condition that limits the blood supply to the unborn child. This can be a very serious condition, as the baby may not be developing correctly due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients.
- The mother’s water has broken, but the contractions haven’t started.
- This opens the womb and exposes the baby to the risk of infections. In these cases, labor must be induced to complete the delivery as quickly as possible.
- The mother’s health is not good.
- If a woman has diabetes or another life threatening condition, labor is often induced to prevent harm to the baby or to her.
These are only a few of the reasons why labor is induced. It’s important follow the advice of your doctor since, there’s probably a very viable reason if they suggest that your should be induced. However, if you have any questions or concerns about the procedure, be sure they’re answered appropriately before labor is induced.
There are four main ways in which labor is induced:
Stripping the Membranes.
This minor procedure can be done in your doctor’s office. The doctor uses a gloved finger to gently separate this membrane of the amniotic from the uterus, encouraging labor to begin. Although this is a relatively simple procedure, there may some cramping and spotting after it is done.
Ripening the Cervix.
This procedure involves placing a suppository in the vagina, up against the cervix. When the suppository melts, it will help to thin and soften the cervix. Most women will begin to feel the start of labor once the medication is administered.
Intravenous Drugs.
There are many drugs available nowadays to help induce labor, some of which have been available since the 1940’s. Ocytocin is one of the most common drugs used to jump start the labor process. Typically, these drugs are administered through an IV and can sometimes make labor contractions very strong.
Breaking the Water.
This is done by puncturing the membrane that surrounds the baby. The mother may feel a warm gush of water, but should feel no pain. This will usually help start labor.
Of course, there are some side effects and risks associated with inducing labor. Some of the drugs used to induce labor can lower the baby’s heart rate. There is also a higher risk of infection for the mother and the baby when labor is induced. Your doctor will weigh the benefits against the possible risks to determine which course of action is best for you and your baby.
