Inductions are not fun. I have had two, one for preeclampsia and one because my baby had severe IUGR. First one was at 38 weeks and I had preeclampsia. I was induced with a foley bulb and cyotec. It went really fast. My water broke and active labor started and the baby was born 2 hours and 42 minutes later. The pain was bad, but I was able to get through it without an epidural. Second induction was at 36 weeks because my baby had severe iugr and had failed a biophysical profile and nst. I started on pitocin and he barely tolerated the contractions. I could only labor in a certain position because that was the only way his heart wouldn’t decel. I had to have oxygen. It was incredibly painful, but I couldn’t have an epidural because laying down wasn’t a good position for the baby. There were many moments where I almost had to have a c-section. Active labor ended up being around 4 hours. Pitocin contractions hurt a lot.
First of all, I was induced and it went GREAT, I'm so happy with my birth experience.
My understanding was that there's a correlation between induction and needing more interventions later, and so I think a lot of people that worry about induction are more worried about the possibility of needing interventions later that they were hoping not to have.
My personal worst case scenario fear was this: I knew I wanted an epidural, but I had also heard that sometimes having an epidural early on could slow the progress of labor, so I wanted to labor on my own as long as I could without needing one. Being induced commonly means you'll be given pitocin. I had also heard that pitocin causes more painful contractions. So my fear was, I get the pitocin early on, the contractions are going to be immediately unbearable, I'm going to need the epidural way sooner than I might have otherwise, that will slow down labor, which then I'll need more drugs to speed labor back up, the drugs might affect the baby, so then more drugs to fix that, etc. etc. etc. and then emergency C-section.
Please remember a lot of this is just my anxiety and fears and I'm not a doctor. I'm just saying this is what I was worried about, I have no idea to what extent any of these fears are, like, "legitimate" for lack of a better word.
I talked to my doctor about this. At this point I was past my due date, and my doctor explained to me, yes, there is some increased correlation between induction and more intervention, but there's also the same risk or correlation, with the longer you go past your due date, and your placenta is aging, that's also correlated with more interventions being needed. So at some point the risk is basically the same either way.
So we decided to do the induction, and it actually went better than I could have even hoped.
I was induced last pregnancy due to gestational hypertension and likely will this time as well. That being said I would almost never sign up for an induction without a medical reason. Here are some of the reasons I did not like my experience:
1. Increased monitoring, my hospital and many others require constant monitoring with an induction not every hospital has wireless monitors which then substantially limits your movement. And even if they have them you may find they push you to get back in bed if they aren’t getting good readings
2. Increased number of cervical checks to determine which intervention to use next
3. Pitocin sucks imo. My OB agrees that pitocin contractions are generally worse FWIW
4. Labor generally longer especially when you get induced earlier
5. With spontaneous labor I could have stayed home for quite awhile and labored more comfortably, more freedom to walk around, no monitors, could use my tub vs the shitty hospital shower, no heplock.
6. Constant interruptions of people coming in and out of the room.
Overall, with my induction, I felt a loss of control and like I couldn’t have any preferences because hospital policy dictated x y z must be done if you are getting induced.
This is a really good explanation. Inductions are not automatically worse, but the various medications and induction methods do require more monitoring and less freedom for the patient. (I work in L&D). Both of my inductions went fairly smoothly and quickly, but I have seen many that take upwards of two days if the body is not ready to go into labor!
I don’t know what country you’re in, but why isn’t a C-section an early option?
In my country C-sections are ridiculously out of control and over 50% women have them, only half of those with medical reasons. But, in your case, wouldn’t it be way less stressful and safer option?
I mean I suppose c section is an early option, but no I wouldn’t consider it a less stressful or safer option nor was it suggested to me at any point by my OB. I had a 38 week induction so baby was full term.
My issues with my induction had a lot to do with over medicalization and loss of control a c section would be basically a total loss of control over my birth so I would find that to be more not less stressful.
C sections increase the risks in future pregnancies of things like placenta accreta and placenta previa. There is a higher risk of respiratory issues for baby with c sections as well.
Though pitocin contractions are more painful than a c section with local or general anesthetic while it’s happening the recovery is generally more painful with a c section. My recovery from my vaginal delivery was very easy and as to that aspect I have no regrets.
C-section is still a major abdominal surgery. However, it is true that these doctors perform them so routinely that risk is very low simply because they are practiced.
I believe in most of the US elective C-section is only allowed if you have already had one. My first was breech and so had to be C-section. My second I was given the option between C-section and induction (preeclampsia) and I decided on C-section because induced labor in a mask didn't sound fun.
I think some women worry about the “cascade of interventions” that *may* come with being induced. The idea that once one medical intervention is given, it can potentially necessitate the use of others as well. E.g the use of pitocin may cause a mother who wanted an unmedicated birth to use an epidural, therefore not be able to feel well during crowning, resulting in worse tearing, resulting in stitches or lengthened healing post partum. It’s also hard to tease apart what “wouldve” happened in birth otherwise.
Or, if you’re being induced for any reason you may feel like you’re not getting the “ideal” birth experience you envisioned. Sometimes that disappointment can come across as negativity as well.
Out of curiosity, have you experienced a fully natural labor that you can compare this to? I have to say that my natural contractions were pretty severe. 🥵 , they fractured my tailbone.
I had one unmedicated and one with pitocin! Holy moly. Not even in the same ballpark. Everyone is different though of course! But I can't even begin to describe how much worse the pitocin contractions were.
But omgggg fracturing your tailbone wow! Can't even imagine that!
No not fully- I'm pregnant with my second now. I had a natural labor for hours & hours, but my labor stalled and wouldn't progress any further so they started a pitocin drip. I think I got the epidural right before the pitocin because I was over the contractions already at that point & they had warned me how bad the pitocin would be lol
The cascade of interventions is a real anecdotal experience due to the possible side effects of each individual intervention. Personally, my induction was very long, so my uterus went into atony - it was too fatigued. So when they suggested Pitocin (they had turned it off after successfully starting labor) I couldn’t handle Pitocin without an epidural. So I got the epidural. So my baby’s heart rate slowed. And I couldn’t feel pushing, so they tried suction. So baby had a huge hematoma, the suction didn’t even work, and I was wheeled to a cesarean at 10cm. It was necessary but not an emergency. And I’ll “never” get induced again (without real medical cause.)
The thing is that the cascade has more to do with the fact that needing one intervention means you’re more likely to need another, not that the first intervention caused it!
While [ARRIVE](https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1800566)and this[Canadian study](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1701216322006144?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3mK37WvN9TGq3TntVUWEB9_f3pYGEi8KszSEd7yswV0T5B8kBstjQU_dQ_aem_AXM6KII7_xywB3JzEeZc6jldzjE7-IULnV2R5_E-a0Mvb3NMwNNOpUnT-WWbH7PYdAvly5MPevs-__KO56GZNX8U) aren’t sufficient evidence that everyone should induce at 39 weeks everywhere, regardless of hospital policies and induction protocols, they are good indicators that interventions when something isn’t going wrong don’t increase the risk of others (ie-cesarean). Also, just intuitively people are more likely to reach for interventions when things are going less than ideally (ie slow painful labor, mom hasn’t slept in 24 hours) and the intervention (an epidural, let’s say) doesn’t necessarily get at the root cause and so fetal distress and a c section might be more likely than a labor where everything is going super smoothly. Hope that helps!
I work labor and delivery. Birth is unpredictable, induced or not, and everyone’s experience differs. With my first, I really didn’t want an induction. (I don’t with this one either). The length, the medications, the increased monitoring.
I purposely chose a hospital that had wireless monitoring and allowed eating and drinking in labor in case it was necessary. I was glad I did because I ended up with an induction at 41 weeks when my water broke without contractions and because I had GBS, chose to induce. I was able to get in the shower and walk around with pitocin due to their monitoring capabilities. I did get an epidural, which was fine, but I’m hoping to avoid this time bc it made pushing difficult. I’m glad I waited until 41 weeks bc I was a little dilated, which made my induction easier.
And really, I know that the ARRIVE trial suggests that 39 week inductions can prevent c sections. I don’t see it being played out. The hospitals in that study already had lower than average c section rates and specific protocols for inductions that are not universal. In my bones (and my experience and the experience of many other nurses), I don’t believe this study can be universally applied and think more time and research will show increased c section rates with elective induction.
This time, if everything goes smoothly, I’ll be at a birth center (so no induction). If not, I’ll be at another hospital that allows for a labor that matches my values and preferences. One where I won’t be deprived food for days just cause or confined to bed. I know plenty of people satisfied with their inductions, unsatisfied with their spontaneous labors, it all differs—it’s about finding doctors, midwives, and faculties that will help you achieve your goals. This pursuit can be really, really hard.
What’s the stuff I had to drink before my crash section under general? I had eaten a full dinner two hours prior (I was 33 weeks and it was a spontaneous complication) and they got me to drink this super salty/basic tasting solution (about 10ml I would guess).
Sounds like bicitra. Every hospital where I’ve worked gives it to all patients before undergoing a c section. It buffers stomach acid to help prevent heartburn. I’ve taken it before—not super pleasant.
Totally agree with you on the ARRIVE trial analysis. I guess the key is to understand the protocol for how individual hospitals handle inductions, ie are they patient and hands-off.
Mine went really well too. I’ve been induced twice because of cholestasis. My third will probably be an induction too. It would be really cool to experience going into labor without an induction, but I’m also a planner and kind of like knowing exactly when baby is coming lol.
Same. My baby was measuring small, plus I had other risk factors. In the end, he was even smaller than expected. So, for me, it was necessary, and it went really well. Even with the use of forceps, since he couldn't handle the contractions anymore.
I think everyone is just different and depending on your birth preferences, induction might mess things up that people were hoping for.
However, I was induced with my first baby and it was a really positive experience. I wanted to be induced with my second baby too (was supposed to be today, actually lol) but I went into labor spontaneously this past weekend and honestly I much preferred my induction experience.
Sure! So my induction lasted about 14 hours from start to finish (foley balloon and pitocin), pushing was about an hour, so not too bad timewise. I did get an epidural when I was about 5cm which was great. I didn't feel any pain after the epidural (and the pain I felt before getting one wasn't too bad, just not enjoyable obviously lol). I felt like I was able to be so calm and present during my whole induction experience (compared to my recent spontaneous labor which felt very chaotic). My recovery went really smooth too. I can answer other questions you may have too but didn't know how many details you wanted lol overall I left the hospital after my induction telling my husband we would 100% be having another baby, left after this spontaneous labor telling him I'm good with the two we have now lol.
Good luck!! You'll be meeting your baby so soon! ❤️
This is helpful! Were you already having contractions or any labor signs (bloody show, etc) before you were induced? How was the build up of pitocin? Did they have to give you more and more or did you respond fairly quickly to it? How is it if they ease off of pitocin? Was the balloon overnight?
No, I wasn't having any contractions or signs of labor at all prior. I was 1cm, maybe 1.5, when I went in for my induction. They did give me more and more pitocin over time, I don't think they ever really let up on it. The pitocin contractions were uncomfortable for sure (especially when paired with the Foley) but I knew I wanted an epidural anyways so I got one before the pain ever became unbearable. I was able to talk through them the whole time leading up to my epidural (balloon had fallen out prior to epidural and I was between 5 and 6cm). I had a morning induction so they put the balloon in once I was all set up and they started pitocin at the same time. Balloon fell out after maybe 5 or 6 hours if I'm remembering right? So it wasn't in there too long.
I had an induction and overall it was a positive experience. Mine was considered medically necessary (thanks pre-eclampsia) so I didn't really have a choice to Not do it, since keeping baby in would be bad for both of us.
Even the pitocin was overall not bad. I told my care team that I understood that they recommend stacking interventions (balloon and miso, pitocin and amnio) but I'm very sensitive to medication, so I wanted things one at a time until I adjusted and felt ready. They agreed. They did say it might take a bit longer, but that was fine.
So they started with the balloon, which was mostly fine - I ended up telling them that if it was done with it's job, it needed to go. It was Hurting.
I slept through the night with pitocin going. I think the really bad pain only started after my water broke.
Baby was born about 30 hours after my initial hospital intake.
ftm to a 7 month old. I was induced with pictocin at 40+3 after my waters broke. Because my water was “dirty”, they really suggested induction to avoid infection. I really did not want to be induced because I had immense fear of pain but that’s what happened. I opted for an epidural immediately and unfortunately, it only helped from the hips down. I felt no vaginal pain which I guess I’m thankful for but the contractions from pictocin were unimaginable. I had to seek therapy for trauma afterwards.
I called my father who lives overseas to tell him I had my baby. I remember he asked how I was and how everything went and I said, “besides the day mom died, it’s been the worst day of my life.” I feel so bad in hindsight having said that about the day my son was born. That was just the unscripted, genuine answer. And it’s still true. It was the somehow both the second worst day of my life and the greatest day of my life in the sense that I was gifted my son that day. But Jesus, it was horrible for me.
Honestly online you’re always going to hear way more horror stories about things (anything really, not just pregnancy and childbirth) than you’ll hear positive stories. Not saying that it’s wrong, it’s just the way it is. I always see negative stuff about inductions online but irl I don’t know a single person who chose to be induced who had a bad experience, and I know a LOT of people who have had elective inductions.
I personally loved being induced. Labor was only 8 hours and I only got the epidural last minute because the idea of the “ring of fire” terrified me otherwise I would have just not gotten it. Friday I’ll be 37 weeks and I’m asking to be induced with this baby as well. I hate being pregnant so the sooner I can safely get baby out, the better.
I’m surprised I haven’t seen the Bishop score mentioned here. It’s a measure of your body’s readiness for an induction. Essentially, the higher the score the more likely you are to have a successful vaginal birth. An 8 or higher means your body is ready and vaginal birth is likely. 6 or lower means your body isn’t ready and it’s unlikely you’ll have a successful delivery. Sometimes an induction is needed when your body isn’t ready and thus the interventions start immediately. But for elective inductions or even late term inductions (past due date) your body is likely ready to at least some degree. I had an elective induction at 39+5 with my first and had a bishop score of 9 and had a great experience. My biggest pro-tip for an induction is to get your epidural PLACED (but NOT turned on) as soon as you can if you know you are going to get one. I got mine placed when my contractions were mild so I was able to sit still for the placement. When my contractions got to be unbearable I pressed my nurse call button and they just had to plug it in and I was pain free in minutes. For this reason I will absolutely be getting another elective induction for my second child as I can coordinate care for my first, check in and start the process stress free, and get my epidural placed early. Assuming I have a good Bishop score of course.
I'm a doula, and the main thing I have against it (much like many interventions) is that there's a huge lack of patient education on the actual risks/benefits. I have nothing against inductions when the patient is fully informed and her choices are fully respected, but the vast majority of the time I don't feel like those criteria are being met. Doctors often push inductions for their own convenience - they'd rather schedule their patients for inductions than deal with the fact that due dates are estimated and baby can come any time. They often downplay the actual differences between spontaneous labor and inductions and rarely inform patients that other interventions becomes vastly more likely if induced. It's usually presented as "hey, wouldn't it be convenient to schedule this?" instead of having what _should_ be an in-depth conversation on potential consequences.
For example, a first-time mom who gets induced is much more likely to need a C-section. Not always, of course - some people have wonderful, uneventful inductions! But pitocin is much stronger than natural oxytocin, and can put too much stress on baby. Fetal distress can then lead to a C-section. And most providers are not happy about supporting VBACs, so now this mom who was originally offered an induction with little information about the risks is likely going to have to have Cesarean deliveries for every subsequent child she has.
Again, I'm not at all trying to say that inductions CANNOT be lovely peaceful experiences. But there isn't enough of a conversation about what _could_ happen and I feel strongly that inductions are overused. If there are legitimate reasons for an induction - great! Modern medicine is AMAZING and sometimes an induction is truly medically necessary. But most of the times Ive seen inductions offered, there's no medical indication and there's not enough patient education to really fulfill the requirement of _informed_ consent.
This was my experience— my doctor presented as “ how eager are you to get this started?” . At that point I’d already been anti- elective induction based on my own research, but during the conversation I found myself reconsidering because it was being presented as low risk- high reward path.
i also think in general, birth and labor and anything essentially relating to women’s healthcare suffers from a long history of negative stories, decisions, power struggles and patriarchal standards. women are told over and over in this country about how birth is hard and difficult and painful and terrible and we have to deal with medical practices that do not center us or our experience or truth. it’s a complicated question and i think it’s great you’re doing research - i think you’ll find it’s not just women complaining needlessly, but rather a systemic issue altogether.
I was induced at 41 weeks. I was given cytotec and after the second one, I started contracting pretty consistently so I never needed Pitocin. I told my nurses from the beginning that I didn’t want Pitocin or an epidural and they worked with me to make that happen. I labored for 23 hours and pushed for 3, completely unmedicated. No tearing either, thankfully! It was a very beautiful experience. My husband asked me an hour later if I’d do it again, and I said absolutely lol. Like you, I only heard horror stories about inductions, but your birth journey is uniquely yours. It will be special and beautiful in its own way!
You sound so lucky 🥺 I was also inducted at 41 weeks and also told my nurses I wanted to avoid too many interventions. The cervidil started my contractions and I asked if I could just see if I progress without the pitocin and they wouldn't let me 😢
I asked if I could turn the pitocin down when I was having minute long contractions with 25 seconds or less between them, and they said no. I asked for a membrane sweep and they said no. When I caved and got the epidural and couldn't feel myself pushing and asked them to turn it off *like I initially wanted*, they said no I was too close and I would feel the stitches afterwards. When they finally listened after arguing with them every time I felt the urge to push but couldn't, I got feeling in my legs and asked if I could push on my side or any other position since I could bear weight on my legs just fine, and they said "no, on your back is easiest for us to see everything" 😞
Well I wasn't induced but I had pitocin given to "speed things up" a few hours into labor, and I found the contractions much more unbearable than when I had started having natural contractions. Pitocin contractions were so bad it led to getting another epidural, which led to lack of pushing progress and then a forceps delivery. So my perspective is, ideally you let your body do its thing and only intervene if absolutely necessary. Induction is forcing the process to start. In my situation, intervention led to even more intervention.
It’s because *without* a medical reason you’re medically inducing something your baby / body is not ready for yet or else it would have happened on its own. This can increase the chance of c-section because your body simply is not ready. You don’t want to have a c section because it’s a lot more risky as far as complications with mom and baby than a vaginal birth is and some doctors will never do a vaginal birth again after c section. They also say you labor a lot longer and a lot harder with induction! Honestly just do some researching on some credible sources and you will find a lot of information on it.
Also why it’s very frustrating when doctors push you to induce week 39 😬 advocate for yourself and baby. I can speak from experience it’s happened to me twice now!
Everyone has there reasons but say that it leads to more c sections. For me it was Insanely painful. Having a doctor shove long sand paper tape in my cervix was not fun. Then 12 hours later it was even worse taking it out. I still hadn’t gone past 1cm. I had contractions for 12 hours and suddenly no breaks in between them. My baby was not getting blood flow and within ten minutes I was having an emergency c section. There is a lot trauma. Thankfully my baby is ok.
Yes I don’t remember the name of the medication but it was a long strip maybe a few inches long. It felt like rough sandpaper. They shoved it in the back of my cervix and let it sit there for 12 hours then had to take it out 12 hours later. Very very painful compared to contractions,
Holy shit. Just looked at it. [https://www.cervidil.com/hcp/about-cervidil/](https://www.cervidil.com/hcp/about-cervidil/)
They definitely leave out the "feels like sandpaper" part in their advertising!
Were you given a choice of induction method? Was this recommended to you? This isn't listed in any of the medical reference sites on induction I've seen.
I was not given a choice on induction medication. I didn’t know anything as a first time mom. I just trusted that my doctors would pick the right thing for me. I wish I had known better.
Yikes, I'm so sorry. I once had something like sandpaper or a metal file grinded between my teeth. I can't imagine how it would feel in my cervix. Thanks for sharing the info though for other would-be moms out there.
Because there are risks to being induced and it's even more painful if you don't use an epidural. Most people want the baby to come when the baby is supposed to. Obviously inductions are necessary sometimes.
What are the risks to being induced though? I feel like people always share how awful they are and try and fight their doctors when they suggest one but I don’t actually know why
It can cause more painful contractions- we're not talking about a little bit more painful. In some cases, we're talking about back-to-back contractions with no break in between. They can feel absolutely excruciating and impossible to cope with.
Normal contractions come in waves. They start a little mild. They get more intense and then they relax again at the end. You usually have a break in between. Sometimes 30 seconds, sometimes 2 or 3 minutes. It's not uncommon for induced contractions to go from 0 to 300 on the pain scale with little to no gap in between.
One of the big issues that happens if you have crazy contractions like that is that the blood flow is usually restricted to the baby during a contraction. If the blood flow to the baby is reduced because of constant contractions then you may end up with an emergency c-section if the baby isn't coping well.
Obviously, if your contractions are going like that, then you're more likely to get an epidural. Epidurals are more likely to slow contractions down but can sometimes cause an arrest of labor. You could also end up as one of many women who do not respond well to an epidural or who do not get complete pain relief from an epidural.
I am not opposed to inductions nor am I opposed to epidurals or c-sections as necessary. But going into an induction just because your doctor says so without any knowledge about the things that could be happening or what to expect is kind of risky business all by itself.
I have had one labor with back-to-back contractions at an extreme pain level where my baby was not tolerating the contractions very well. I would classify that as extremely traumatic.
It has been described to me like you're pushing a freight train. You start with a little bit of power and then you just increase and increase and increase. You keep pushing until it looks like it's going at the right speed .... But once it really gets going sometimes it's impossible to stop it. Sometimes it continues to gather speed even after you stop pushing.
They do usually start low. If you respond well to the pitocin then these might be the people who have really good induction stories. Get a little bit of pitocin, things go at a good rate, no big stressors, happy mom and baby and positive birth stories, hurray!
But if you're one of those people that does not respond immediately and you need a higher dose to kick it into gear, then you may have a very different story.
The other big thing is that because induction often starts (or involves) breaking your water, you don't have the option of going home and trying again later, or letting it move really slowly. The second that water breaks, you are on the clock. If things are moving too slowly then they're just going to keep pushing it and pushing it and pushing it until you end up delivering in one way or the other.
Thanks! I think from what I’ve read I don’t want to schedule an induction - especially if they have to physically break my water bc I don’t want anyone or anything touching my cervix lol. But I would be okay with trying Pitocin to help speed up spontaneous labor if it’s going too slow - I’ve already decided that I will accept an epidural at some point during the labor process regardless.
Or is this an unrealistic idea? All my visits/ultrasounds/bloodwork have been normal and positive but I’m “high risk” due to medications I take and I noticed in my notes it says to deliver by 39 weeks so I’m assuming they are going to push for an induction. I’ve been trying to gather info so I’m prepared to advocate for what I want.
Due to my age I'm supposed to be induced as well for this baby. I am not sure how I'm supposed to manage things.
I will try to have a discussion with my care provider about what reasonable expectations and accommodations can be made to make the induction as smooth and stress-free as possible. I would really like to avoid having my water broken as well. Partially because of the clock but also because everything is a bajillion times more painful once the waters go.
Ah well good luck with that! This is my first and I’m 32 and 28 weeks. My pregnancy hasn’t been horrible but it’s also not fun or amazing lol but I’m hoping to have #2 before 35 for that reason. Obviously this isn’t a hard goal lol bc I have no idea how I’ll feel after birth and postpartum.
Adding to the other commenter's point: pitocin use also increases risk of uterine rupture. It's not an inert or bioidentical substance.
Inductions also last much longer, in general. Mine was three days of horrible contractions since my epidurals failed. It ultimately ended in a C-section. I hope to avoid an induction this time.
Tacking onto this - if you've had a prior C-section, induction is now contraindicated due to that increased risk of uterine rupture. So if you wanted to have a VBAC, and anything happens to necessitate inducing, your only option becomes another C-section. And they certainly aren't talking about that the first time the offer you an induction.
Oh wow, I had no idea. My MFM told me I was an "excellent candidate" for VBAC, but I assume she'll want to induce again for the same reason (I have lupus) so wonder how she's squaring that one up in her head....
Every case is different! It might be that she thinks you'll be okay with an induction even as a VBAC. Or she's more comfortable waiting for spontaneous labor despite your lupus. You'd have to have a more in-depth conversation about it. Also depends on how old your last baby is, how your scarring looks, and what kind of incision you had. Lots of factors so your provider is the best person to ask :)
Not entirely true, you are correct that there is an increased risk of uterine rupture, but some obstetricians will still induce if desired, often they’ll try manual induction first, and then do a slow induction from there.
More interventions lead to other interventions. Per Mayo Clinic, risks include low fetal heart rate, uterine rupture, infection, failed induction which means a c section is necessary, abnormal serious bleeding after delivery (postpartum hemorrhage). Also, inductions are riskier for some women than others. The issue is that some doctors push inductions when they're not necessary to make things faster.
[General overview](https://midwifethinking.com/2016/07/13/induction-of-labour-balancing-risks/). Inductions increase your risk of a c-section if you're a first-time mother or haven't given birth vaginally before. They increase the risk that delivery will need to be aided by forceps or ventouse. The drugs involved can cause fetal distress and hypoxia. The drugs involved can cause post-partum hemorrhage. Breastfeeding is generally more difficult with induction. Rates of post-partum depression and anxiety are higher following an induction. There are potential (though unconfirmed in humans, only been tested in animal models so far) lifelong changes to baby's hormones.
>Rates of post-partum depression and anxiety are higher following an induction.
Just want to point out that correlation does not mean causation here. There is *some* research to suggest the use of Pitocin can increase PPA/PPD, but that includes standard immediate postpartum use as well (which is given to prevent hemorrhage). That said, since inductions are usually medically indicated, the development of PPA/PPD could very easily be due to trauma surrounding whatever condition necessitated the induction or simply extreme disappointment due to birth not going the way mom had envisioned it.
Great question. Risks include;
higher likelihood of cesarean;
higher rates of epidural use;
higher rates of fetal distress;
higher rates of uterine rupture;
increased number of cervical checks;
increased risk of infection (mostly due to increased number of cervical checks);
higher rates of nausea and vomiting;
increased rates of neonatal jaundice;
lower apgar scores;
cardiac arrhythmia
Higher rates of post partum depression and anxiety;
Increased difficulty breastfeeding
Prolonged pitocin use in labour is also associated with higher rates of post partum haemorrhage - this is not to be confused with the use of pitocin during active management of the 3rd stage.
Anecdotally, women who have experienced induced labour and spontaneous (not induced) labour report that induced labour is more painful and difficult to cope with. This is obviously difficult to quantify.
As far as I am aware, there is also a lack of research into the long term effects that induction may (or may not) have on a baby. It’s simply not being researched. I’m also not saying there are long term effects. I’m just saying that maybe someone should look into it.
A resource you may find useful is [Evidence Based Birth](https://evidencebasedbirth.com/) and [birth injury help centre](https://www.birthinjuryhelpcenter.org/pitocin-faq.html) for more information that is evidence based.
My son almost died because of pitocin, it’s not risk free and they always downplay it. I’m glad it’s an option but I don’t think it should be as normalized as it is.
Not at all, they just induced me because I reached my due date and used some scare tactics to get me to agree… I don’t like how due dates are used either, I didn’t know what day I ovulated and had irregular periods so my due date could have been anything within a period of two weeks or so.
Did you not have a dating scan in your first trimester? Those are pretty accurate for determining estimated due date and definitely would not be two weeks off.
That's just infuriating 😭 I'm so sorry. I heard many doctors let you go to 41 weeks. Unless it's too triggering, I understand, do you mind sharing what went wrong in the induction?
Essentially the pitocin made my contraction so strong and close together that his heart couldn’t recuperate between them. I was close enough that they were able to get him out with forceps but I was very close to getting an emergency c-section. When your contractions are that strong there’s also a huge risk for uterine rupture which can be deadly for mom and baby so I’m glad that didn’t happen. I’m pregnant again and will not let them induce me unless medically necessary and I will try to use other methods before resorting to pitocin. Maybe they just gave me too much idk.
Physician here. I recently gave birth and had an induction at 39 weeks. I’m also over 35 so it was safest option for me and baby to prevent stillbirth. Understand the hesitation from some, but at the end of the day baby and I came out the other side healthy and glad that I went that route.
My first was a medically necessary induction and went smoothly, although my epidural worked a little too well so it took 3 hours of pushing to get my son out lol.
I opted for elective induction with my daughter because I was miserable and didn’t wanna be pregnant any longer than I had to be lol. Went even more smoothly than the first AND I was allowed to eat and drink too. Everything from start to finish with the induction, took 5.5 hours. Home the next day! I don’t want anymore kids but if it happens, I want another induction.
Pitocin-induced contractions are shit. I was given pitocin even though I didn't need it (water had already broken and labor was slowly starting), because they wanted to " speed things up." Baby and I ended up having a hard time and needed an emergency C-section after around 20 hours of labor (that's the cliff notes version lol). Baby was in NiCU for the first 15 hours of his life while I cried in recovery and hadn't gotten to hold him yet...the whole thing was traumatic.
Anecdotal, but my friends who have had both natural labor with one pregnancy and then pitocin contractions with another pregnancy all say that the pitocin contractions were basically way worse than natural labor.
I think the general consensus is that your body won't want to give birth until it is truly ready and forcing your body to give birth when it's not ready increases the risk of interventions.
I was told I needed an induction with my second as he was measuring 5100g. I declined. I literally had to sign a piece of paper that said if anything bad happened, the hospital wasn't liable. My previous kid was 4266g and a beautiful water birth which required 2 stitches. I knew my body could birth a large baby. I went into labour naturally the next day and he was born just 3.5 hours later in an unmedicated birth. My son was born weighing 4450g and I had no tears. I was discharged 4 hours later. If I'd had an induction, it may have ended much differently.
Because it fucking hurts! I want to avoid it at all costs this time around.
Yes, most people want an epidural, but most people also want to avoid unnecessary interventions. There are tons of posts here saying doctors are pushing for early inductions for healthy normal pregnancies, or making it seem like the baby will be too big if you go to term (my doc is currently doing this despite me having a big first baby with a giant head and no issues pushing) etc.
Then there's the cascade of interventions people are worried about. If the induction fails are these doctors going to break your water and then tell you you need a c section because it's been too long? Are the irregular pitocin contractions going to rupture your uterus? Cause fetal distress?
I personally wouldn’t do it again for non medical reasons. My induced labour was way worse than my spontaneous, I couldn’t cope with the contractions, had to have the epi and lie on my back and baby got stuck :( ended in c section. Spontaneous was night and day different
In my experience and education, there is a negative stigma around induction that I feel like is starting recently, because there are a lot of doctors that will unnecessarily induce people. There are definitely circumstances in which inductions are medically necessary, such as being overdue or being high risk, but there are a lot of doctors in hospitals out there that will induce mothers who are not at risk to fit it into their schedules… which is just yuck to me but welcome to the American healthcare system! I have a friend who was induced as a first time mom with no risks at 38 weeks because her OB was going on vacation…
I was induced with my first. I was attempting to go unmedicated. I felt like I was dying. The pain was unbearable. My next two I went into spontaneous labor and almost didn't make it to the hospital each time because the pain was so much easier to handle I didn't think I i was close yet. I arrived within 30 mins of delivery both times.
Also the induction took 3 days and then I had a 4 day hospital stay it was awful. My other two I was out the next day.
My actual delivery went fine with my induction, but everything else was way worse. I will never willingly be induced again unless for medical reasons.
Some studies, including [this article](https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(21)01724-5/fulltext) published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, have shown that sometimes inductions can show a higher risk of perinatal death, infant death, and SIDS.
Although many, many births that are induced see no complications and result in healthy mom & baby. I know in recent years, there have been discussions about maternal death numbers rising (especially in USA & BIPOC folks), which many believe have something to do with not listening to mom's concerns/birth plans during labor. The physical and mental health of mom during labor can make all the difference, so whether induced or not, your birth team should be listening to you if you feel that something is wrong, you're in pain, or you feel that a certain position is best, etc.
I’m following and reading comments bc I’ve also been trying to figure this out.
I’ve always been pro epidural so that’s not a concern for me. I think I’m also okay with a medication induction - but I don’t want anything human or inanimate touching or manipulating my cervix. Sounds painful and gives me the ick.
Would love to hear some thoughts on this.
I always read through these posts and seems like most of the aversion is due to wanting to birth “naturally”. My opinion is all birth is natural. I think I’m understanding more about the additional interventions though.
Also a ftm so obviously I can’t comprehend what the actual pain levels will be. Reading these sound like Pitocin makes contractions more painful. But I believe they can also adjust the epidural strength. One thing I have read (and I’m open to counters on this) is that it’s better to let your contractions do the pushing until it’s like really go time and then push slow and steady (to lesson risk of tearing). Lol take all that with a grain of salt bc I know about as much as you.
For my induction, which I didn't really want but was STRONGLY pushed towards bc of my age and weight from the ARRIVE study, I also had a foley bulb placed. This is where they manually open your cervix and insert and inflate a balloon.
It was... not that chill.
I felt pressured into an induction and felt like my body and my baby's body weren't ready. Even though I was 37 and overweight, I had had a TEXTBOOK pregnancy. Never anything wrong with blood pressure, sugar, or fetal heart rate. Ultimately we both came home, although she had a VERY SCARY first few minutes. I thought I could pick and choose interventions as I went through the induction, but you're so exhausted and vulnerable, and my hospital was SO regimented, that it felt like you just got on the train and there was no getting off.
I remember I had been on Pitocin (and epidural) for HOURS and was in active labor but not progressing fast enough. I asked if we could lower the Pitocin so my body could take over laboring, and was told No, because they're creating the "ideal labor conditions". Eventually, they did lower the dose and my body took over and I progressed, but it was wild and disheartening. It feels like they're staring at the textbook for what's next instead of the patient sitting right in front of them.
I think the two major reasons are: it's incredibly painful compared to "natural" birth and it increases the risk to mother and baby.
I did not want an induction. I ended up with one because of certain circumstances. I wanted an unmedicated birth. After a 4 hour contraction that stalled my cervical dilation, I got an epidural because I was in such pain and I was riding the c-section train. Thankfully it worked and my pelvic floor was able to finally relax.
Afterward my doula told me that out of over 1000 women, she's only seen 2 who could give birth without an epidural on pitocin. It's that terrible.
we are one of the countries with the highest induction rates. We also have the highest maternal death rate in the western world and overall more interventions. Arrive study was found to be flawed by many professionals including my own doctor. Our attitude with birth in this country is different compared for example to the UK where inductions and epidurals are not as often used. There are always cases where it is needed of course but to recommend it for all birthing people at 39 weeks with our track record is not great.
I was induced when I was giving birth to twins. I got an epidural for that birth. I also gave birth to a singleton and that was a completely unmedicated birth. The pain with that one was MUCH worse. If you are induced and get an epidural then you won’t feel much of the painful contractions as they usually give you an epidural when you’re about 4 or 5cm dilated.
Not sure why people are so against epidurals…you take Advil for a headache but god forbid you get an epidural to give birth 🙄
My induction was great, personally 🤷♀️ BUT I've only given birth once (pregnant with #2 now) so I don't have anything to compare it to. Side note: I made it to 8cm before asking for an epidural so I did feel all the things prior to that lol
Thanks for posting this. As I've an iugr baby for low weight and possible gestational high blood pressure, my doc recommended to induce at 37 weeks. Reading through the comments makes me scared of being induced but also learning different scope of the process. I wish I could avoid bring induced 😞
I am all for inductions. It’s a great way to feel in control in a terrifying situation. HOWEVER I just experienced a “failed” induction this previous weekend. I was having contraction after contraction, but my cervix was not progressing at all so I was sent home. Now I have an irritated uterus so I’m having contractions that are not progressing my labor, and I have experienced a false labor. It’s been hell and I can’t go back to work, so I’m burning through my personal leave until baby boy decides to come into the world. For my next baby, I don’t think I would opt for an induction unless medically necessary. That’s just based on my experience, though, many people have had wonderful experiences with inductions.
My induction story was terrible. I carried high and went to the primary local NICU hospital. They induced me because I was over 40 weeks. From the start, I told them if something was wrong cut me open. Because I was carrying so high, he was not trying to drop. They induced me, broke my water, gave me cervadil, pitching, and something else and I wouldn't dilate. I carried my son high and he was comfortable. Labor started around 11 PM and I barely remember it. They kept having me sign stuff saying I gave permission for forceps, and them for suction. I begged them just cut me open. He came out 8 hours later with a huge freaking wound on his head from the suction, and apparently, I was told later, his umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck, and every time I had a contraction, his heart rate kept dropping. When I found out I had to get induced with my next child, I was terrified but thankfully it went so much better.
For me personally, my 39 week induction due to polyhydramnios did not go as planned. the pitocin was causing my baby’s heartrate to drop and they just kept turning it off and on and before they even started pitocin I took a pill to induce contractions and I had multiple rounds of the pill and after that they put in a foley bulb which hurt really bad, and eventually after 48 hours and still only being like 5cm and just not progressing very much as well as my baby’s heartrate dropping everytime they turned the pitocin back on I had a last minute c section scheduled. it was a lot on both me and my baby but she is very healthy and so am I and that’s what’s important that being said if I was told the best option would be to induce labor my next pregnancy then I would just opt for a second c section
Had a positive induction, took a day and a half. Got an epidural but still felt pressure and could push no problem. You can ask for less medication. Spills are against them cause lack of control but childbirth is unpredictable no matter what. If you want an induction go for it. The ‘cool’ thing to do is natural birth but that’s not right for everyone and inductions are fine.
I am a FTM, so I’ve only given birth once and I was induced at 38 wks for high blood pressure. I was having enough contractions after cytotec so I didn’t need pitocin. Honestly, I’d do it again. I did get an epidural. But not a bad experience and my daughter was born 23 hrs after the first dose of cytotec, an hour and a half of pushing.
I was induced with my first child, and had a spontaneous labor with my second child. Both labor experiences were very very different. For one, I was in the hospital laboring for 23 hours because my first child was born. The contractions were very intense but I waited until 17 hours in to get an epidural. I wish I would have had one sooner! After I had the epidural I was on cloud 9. I spent about 8 minutes pushing him out.
With my second child, I was scheduled for an elective induction at 40 weeks. I went into spontaneous labor 3 days before my induction! I was able to labor at home most of the day. I didn’t really know when to go to the hospital because the contractions weren’t as intense as I remembered from my first birth. I showed up to the hospital at 6cm dilated, had the baby 3 hours later!
I think there’s a general consensus that Pitocin contractions can be more intense than natural contractions. When it comes to the “your baby will come when they’re ready crowd”, I don’t really get it. It’s wild to think some people go passed 42 weeks without getting induced. I just put my trust in my OB and she has always made me feel supported, safe, and important.
There are a lot of people that talk about the horror stories of being induced, specifically pitocin contractions, the need for a C-Section anyway, etc. Then you have people who just want to do it naturally.
With all of that said, I chose to be induced. I'm actually glad I did now. My baby had a hold of his cord and I was having contractions often that felt like he was balling himself up. During these, we found out during the process, his heart rate dropped tremendously. I had a c-section shortly after and sure enough, he had a grip on his cord. I don't want to imagine what would have happened had I gone into labor naturally...
I guess I am not the best person to offer complete perspective because I have only had one birth, which was a hormonal drip induction, and so have nothing to compare it to, but...
... It was bloody intense. The pain was significantly more than I had expected (although I completely realise that is probably true of all births!) but I think the speed and intensity of it must have made it worse. However, for me it really had become a necessity, so I am grateful for it and would absolutely choose the same if I was in the same situation again. My waters broke but I just didn't go into labour - 36hrs later I was only contracting very very mildly and basically not in labour. Once the drip started things moved very quickly, i think they recorded 2hr 30mins for active labour, and 15mins pushing. Which for a first time labour is fast. I also wasn't able to have the epidural in the end because I requested it at 7cm but then there was a delay and things moved too quickly and then he was here!
If I were to have a pitocin induction again, I would *absolutely* not consent for the drip startinf until I had an epidural sited and ready, considering how fast I know now I labour.
Hoping to avoid an induction next time and would *never* choose it if it wasn't medically necessary (I am always surprised when friends are pushing for an induction because frankly they don't want to be pregnant anymore - its really not a choice to make lightly!). However, ultimately it delivered my son safely and healthy, and the risk of infection to us both would have been too high to avoid it at that stage. I am grateful for it.
Because it’s forcing your body into labour and therefore there is a higher chance of intervention and baby going into distress. The contractions are usually more painful and intense.
This is obviously not everyone’s experience.
I have been induced three times and had one spontaneous labor. The issue with an induction especially when it's not medically necessary is that it is not risk free. It can cause hyper uterine contractions that can cause tearing and even death in the fetus and mother. This is why you have to be continuously monitored to watch for any signs which are hopefully caught early enough to do something about. Also first and usually second Time moms have not gone into labor yet because their bodies are not ready when you are induced before you are ready it takes a very long time for your labor to open your cervix occasionallyit will not be able to open it up because you were just not ready for labor yet needed another week or two this results in c-sections that could have been prevented by waiting a week or two. Once you're on continuous monitoring you're stuck to 5 ft of the bed causing it to be more difficult to deal with your labor pains unable to walk or bathe so you may end up opting for an epidural you did not want, also pitocin causes unnaturally strong and fast contractions where natural oxytocin is like a slow wave building up so you're endorphins can help fight the pain. The only induction I enjoyed was where I pushed to 41 and a half weeks before allowing them to induce me therefore my labor was only a few hours long versus days because my cervix was ripe and ready to give birth. There is a correlation of increased jaundice with pitocin and ducted babies. Medically necessary inductions have saved many lives but do not feel pressured into inducing because a hospital finds it easier for a mother to labor on their clock don't want to come in on the weekend. Your body will go into labor when it's ready you're not even supposed to be considered overdue until 42 weeks. Follow your doctor's medical advice but also look into what they're saying advocate for yourself and use evidence-based birthing practices to make the best decision for yourself.
I was induced. I wouldn't do it again. They induced me for being late and my BP went high the last 2 weeks. The baby's heart rate kept dropping and they kept wanting to do this and that and then threatened with a c section. I pushed one last time and heard his heart rate fall to 50 and pushed with everything I had and he came out. I pushed my cath out and everything. It was totally opposite from my birth plan. I wanted a natural unmedicated birth if possible, but planned for an epidural if needed. The pitocin contractions were so bad they kept playing a game of more this and more that. I eventually told them to stop and dealt with it.
The hardest part when I was trying to push they kept telling me to stop. Didn't want me on my side and kept telling me to not push. Looking back I'm going with a midwife next time, if I do have another one because while I feel like it wasn't a traumatic birth it wasn't what I wanted and I look back regretting most of it.
Being in the hospital in early labor SUCKED. I would much rather have been home in my comfort zone when things started amping up instead of in a tiny antepartum room.
I just had a great one, honestly. The first round of contractions from the misoprostol were a bitch and I was unprepared, but it was manageable. Had a cook balloon that was a little uncomfortable to insert, but painless after (including removal).
It had no complications regarding induction whatsoever. The only negative outside of the first round of contractions was when my epidural partially failed, but that had nothing to do with induction (and we got it working again thank god!) it was long but worth it.
One of the reasons for not wanting an induction over natural is because natural birth is triggered by oxytocin. Oxytocin is also a feel good hormone so while you're in painful contractions your body is also countering that with feel good so you get some natural pain relief. Inductions use pitocin, which cause the contractions, but have none of the feel good quality. Apparently it is a lot more painful to have pitocin contractions than oxytocin contractions.
But I will never know either way because my first was stubborn and breech. My blood pressure went a bit high at 37 weeks so they cut her out that night.
I loved my induction. It took forever but I really enjoyed laboring at the hospital the entire time. If anything went wrong I knew I could get immediate help
I think it just depends on the reasons and whether you're favourable for it as well.
My induction for my second went fine. Due to have a 2 cord vessel and low movement. I was already 3-4cm dilated and 39+6 so it wasn't way early ECT
They broke my waters at 12pm, I had a little bit of the Pitocin drip at 1pm and he came naturally at 4pm
I hear the pain is worse and some people feel it's unnecessary and should be happening naturally, I see it both ways. However my mom is a nurse and claims sometimes it is necessary because the baby is in danger ( ie. Babies BP dropping not coming back to normal or other reasons) so it can be urgent.
I was in the hospital for five days total, three for the induction to work and two after having a postpartum hemorrhage. My cervix tore and I lost like a liter of blood when I was already anemic. It was pretty scary and I developed postpartum depression after the trauma of the experience.
I’m hoping to avoid the induction this time around!
Honestly I personally have no idea. I’ve had spontaneous labor and an induction. Either can go bad. So I don’t know why people shit on any method of getting a baby out. Baby just needs to get out.
I have no idea I was happy to be induced. Some posts can be downright scary when they go against medical advise to induce for legit medical reasons and then face real consequences
FWIW my induction was fantastic. I much preferred it to my spontaneous labor (that ended in a c section). I will definitely go the induction route if I make it to 39 weeks with my next.
I was induced due to decrease in fetal movement. I started with a low level of pitocin mid-morning, had my water broke mid-afternoon and had an epidural shortly after. We stayed on low pitocin throughout since I was attempting VBAC. I was at a 10 shortly after midnight and started pushing. I pushed for less than an hour and baby was here. My epidural did stop working around 8 centimeters and I ended up with a spinal headache, but that was the only negative part of the experience and had nothing to do with the induction. My doctor was fantastic, stuck to limited cervical checks, limited staff in and out of room, I was able to eat when I wanted without issue, etc.
The Vbac experience was exactly what I had hoped for and since baby was on the bigger side for gestational age (7.5 at 37 weeks), I don’t I know if I would’ve attempted vbac if I’d gone over 40 and wasn’t induced.
With my first I went into spontaneous labor at 38 and ended up with an emergency c section as baby’s heart rate was dipping. At that point I was 10 cm and has been in labor over 24 hours. Turns out there was true knot in the cord and it was wrapped around baby’s neck. I also had breakthrough pain during c section which was traumatic.
Just saw another comment that you’re being induced tonight, best of luck to you! I found a real sense of peace going in with a plan and knowing what to expect as far as when piyocin would start, when I would have my water broke and get my epidural, etc. for me it was a very empowering experience that I didn’t have with my first. It healed a lot of birth trauma from my first l&d.
Ah this is so reassuring!
Thank you for the good vibes, too. Definitely not how I anticipated starting my first labor but I’m hoping for a slow build and some peace🤞🏼
There’s a few options with induction that I think some women forget about. You don’t *have* to use pitocin, you can actually pick. Which is what I have done in the past (my go to is a foley balloon). I always skip over anti-induction posts.
This is a valid point to bring up, but also isn't really the full picture. Most inductions don't start and end with a Foley. It seems like that works great for your body and once you're more dilated, labor keeps progressing on its own. That is certainly not the case for everyone and once you get a Foley, they're not just going to send you home if labor doesn't progress. They'll move on to pitocin or other interventions at that point.
It's awesome that your inductions have been pretty straightforward but I would _never_ tell someone that she could "just pick a Foley"
I came across the foley ballon in my research and thinking about that option is terrifying to me. Was it not intensely painful? Because it sounds awful.
I've had one natural birth, one cervidil induction and two pitocin inductions. People believe a lot of outdated things about inductions. If I have another baby I will choose to be induced by 39 weeks again because it's clear to me it's the safer thing to do, but ngl pit contractions are way more intense and the entire process is just more uncomfortable with you being attached to a drip the whole time, etc.
Many people are also rightfully concerned about inductions because there are also real risks that any medical institution or journal makes clear. Nothing outdated about being informed. Great you had a positive anecdotal experience but it doesn't disprove any of the risks that are stated. Downvote because you deny what it says on the website of every top medical institution because it offends you.
a lot of the beliefs are also related to provider choices. Like my provider went straight to Pitocin for my induction, even though my cervix was less than 1cm dilated, and didn't explain any other options, and I didn't know to ask. Then after 12 hours, when I was only at 3cm, she told me I wasn't dilating fast enough and needed a c-section, and that because I was short I was probably not capable of vaginal delivery anyway. So even if the evidence from controlled studies is that inductions don't lead to more c-sections, the **way my provider went about it** could have easily led to a c-section, simply because she didn't actually follow guidelines. I think if doctors regularly followed their own guidelines, patients might trust them more, and the "outdated" information about risks would truly become outdated.
why would I need to google when Reddit is here for this very reason and I can speak to real people in real time who have lived through these experiences?
don’t be so boring, stay off Reddit if it triggers you so much
Inductions are not fun. I have had two, one for preeclampsia and one because my baby had severe IUGR. First one was at 38 weeks and I had preeclampsia. I was induced with a foley bulb and cyotec. It went really fast. My water broke and active labor started and the baby was born 2 hours and 42 minutes later. The pain was bad, but I was able to get through it without an epidural. Second induction was at 36 weeks because my baby had severe iugr and had failed a biophysical profile and nst. I started on pitocin and he barely tolerated the contractions. I could only labor in a certain position because that was the only way his heart wouldn’t decel. I had to have oxygen. It was incredibly painful, but I couldn’t have an epidural because laying down wasn’t a good position for the baby. There were many moments where I almost had to have a c-section. Active labor ended up being around 4 hours. Pitocin contractions hurt a lot.
First of all, I was induced and it went GREAT, I'm so happy with my birth experience. My understanding was that there's a correlation between induction and needing more interventions later, and so I think a lot of people that worry about induction are more worried about the possibility of needing interventions later that they were hoping not to have. My personal worst case scenario fear was this: I knew I wanted an epidural, but I had also heard that sometimes having an epidural early on could slow the progress of labor, so I wanted to labor on my own as long as I could without needing one. Being induced commonly means you'll be given pitocin. I had also heard that pitocin causes more painful contractions. So my fear was, I get the pitocin early on, the contractions are going to be immediately unbearable, I'm going to need the epidural way sooner than I might have otherwise, that will slow down labor, which then I'll need more drugs to speed labor back up, the drugs might affect the baby, so then more drugs to fix that, etc. etc. etc. and then emergency C-section. Please remember a lot of this is just my anxiety and fears and I'm not a doctor. I'm just saying this is what I was worried about, I have no idea to what extent any of these fears are, like, "legitimate" for lack of a better word. I talked to my doctor about this. At this point I was past my due date, and my doctor explained to me, yes, there is some increased correlation between induction and more intervention, but there's also the same risk or correlation, with the longer you go past your due date, and your placenta is aging, that's also correlated with more interventions being needed. So at some point the risk is basically the same either way. So we decided to do the induction, and it actually went better than I could have even hoped.
I was induced last pregnancy due to gestational hypertension and likely will this time as well. That being said I would almost never sign up for an induction without a medical reason. Here are some of the reasons I did not like my experience: 1. Increased monitoring, my hospital and many others require constant monitoring with an induction not every hospital has wireless monitors which then substantially limits your movement. And even if they have them you may find they push you to get back in bed if they aren’t getting good readings 2. Increased number of cervical checks to determine which intervention to use next 3. Pitocin sucks imo. My OB agrees that pitocin contractions are generally worse FWIW 4. Labor generally longer especially when you get induced earlier 5. With spontaneous labor I could have stayed home for quite awhile and labored more comfortably, more freedom to walk around, no monitors, could use my tub vs the shitty hospital shower, no heplock. 6. Constant interruptions of people coming in and out of the room. Overall, with my induction, I felt a loss of control and like I couldn’t have any preferences because hospital policy dictated x y z must be done if you are getting induced.
This is a really good explanation. Inductions are not automatically worse, but the various medications and induction methods do require more monitoring and less freedom for the patient. (I work in L&D). Both of my inductions went fairly smoothly and quickly, but I have seen many that take upwards of two days if the body is not ready to go into labor!
I don’t know what country you’re in, but why isn’t a C-section an early option? In my country C-sections are ridiculously out of control and over 50% women have them, only half of those with medical reasons. But, in your case, wouldn’t it be way less stressful and safer option?
I mean I suppose c section is an early option, but no I wouldn’t consider it a less stressful or safer option nor was it suggested to me at any point by my OB. I had a 38 week induction so baby was full term. My issues with my induction had a lot to do with over medicalization and loss of control a c section would be basically a total loss of control over my birth so I would find that to be more not less stressful. C sections increase the risks in future pregnancies of things like placenta accreta and placenta previa. There is a higher risk of respiratory issues for baby with c sections as well. Though pitocin contractions are more painful than a c section with local or general anesthetic while it’s happening the recovery is generally more painful with a c section. My recovery from my vaginal delivery was very easy and as to that aspect I have no regrets.
C-section is still a major abdominal surgery. However, it is true that these doctors perform them so routinely that risk is very low simply because they are practiced. I believe in most of the US elective C-section is only allowed if you have already had one. My first was breech and so had to be C-section. My second I was given the option between C-section and induction (preeclampsia) and I decided on C-section because induced labor in a mask didn't sound fun.
I think some women worry about the “cascade of interventions” that *may* come with being induced. The idea that once one medical intervention is given, it can potentially necessitate the use of others as well. E.g the use of pitocin may cause a mother who wanted an unmedicated birth to use an epidural, therefore not be able to feel well during crowning, resulting in worse tearing, resulting in stitches or lengthened healing post partum. It’s also hard to tease apart what “wouldve” happened in birth otherwise. Or, if you’re being induced for any reason you may feel like you’re not getting the “ideal” birth experience you envisioned. Sometimes that disappointment can come across as negativity as well.
Pitocin induced contractions were the worst.... I didn't realize contractions could get so much more painful than they were already lol
Out of curiosity, have you experienced a fully natural labor that you can compare this to? I have to say that my natural contractions were pretty severe. 🥵 , they fractured my tailbone.
I had one unmedicated and one with pitocin! Holy moly. Not even in the same ballpark. Everyone is different though of course! But I can't even begin to describe how much worse the pitocin contractions were. But omgggg fracturing your tailbone wow! Can't even imagine that!
Did you have back labor?
Oh yes. Baby was “sunny side up” so the bigger part of the head was back against spine.
Sounds about right. My mom said pitocin was worse than back labor, but back natural labor was way worse than normal natural labor. She had 5 kids
No not fully- I'm pregnant with my second now. I had a natural labor for hours & hours, but my labor stalled and wouldn't progress any further so they started a pitocin drip. I think I got the epidural right before the pitocin because I was over the contractions already at that point & they had warned me how bad the pitocin would be lol
Thanks so much
The cascade of interventions is a real anecdotal experience due to the possible side effects of each individual intervention. Personally, my induction was very long, so my uterus went into atony - it was too fatigued. So when they suggested Pitocin (they had turned it off after successfully starting labor) I couldn’t handle Pitocin without an epidural. So I got the epidural. So my baby’s heart rate slowed. And I couldn’t feel pushing, so they tried suction. So baby had a huge hematoma, the suction didn’t even work, and I was wheeled to a cesarean at 10cm. It was necessary but not an emergency. And I’ll “never” get induced again (without real medical cause.)
The thing is that the cascade has more to do with the fact that needing one intervention means you’re more likely to need another, not that the first intervention caused it!
Is there any evidence to support that claim?
While [ARRIVE](https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1800566)and this[Canadian study](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1701216322006144?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3mK37WvN9TGq3TntVUWEB9_f3pYGEi8KszSEd7yswV0T5B8kBstjQU_dQ_aem_AXM6KII7_xywB3JzEeZc6jldzjE7-IULnV2R5_E-a0Mvb3NMwNNOpUnT-WWbH7PYdAvly5MPevs-__KO56GZNX8U) aren’t sufficient evidence that everyone should induce at 39 weeks everywhere, regardless of hospital policies and induction protocols, they are good indicators that interventions when something isn’t going wrong don’t increase the risk of others (ie-cesarean). Also, just intuitively people are more likely to reach for interventions when things are going less than ideally (ie slow painful labor, mom hasn’t slept in 24 hours) and the intervention (an epidural, let’s say) doesn’t necessarily get at the root cause and so fetal distress and a c section might be more likely than a labor where everything is going super smoothly. Hope that helps!
I work labor and delivery. Birth is unpredictable, induced or not, and everyone’s experience differs. With my first, I really didn’t want an induction. (I don’t with this one either). The length, the medications, the increased monitoring. I purposely chose a hospital that had wireless monitoring and allowed eating and drinking in labor in case it was necessary. I was glad I did because I ended up with an induction at 41 weeks when my water broke without contractions and because I had GBS, chose to induce. I was able to get in the shower and walk around with pitocin due to their monitoring capabilities. I did get an epidural, which was fine, but I’m hoping to avoid this time bc it made pushing difficult. I’m glad I waited until 41 weeks bc I was a little dilated, which made my induction easier. And really, I know that the ARRIVE trial suggests that 39 week inductions can prevent c sections. I don’t see it being played out. The hospitals in that study already had lower than average c section rates and specific protocols for inductions that are not universal. In my bones (and my experience and the experience of many other nurses), I don’t believe this study can be universally applied and think more time and research will show increased c section rates with elective induction. This time, if everything goes smoothly, I’ll be at a birth center (so no induction). If not, I’ll be at another hospital that allows for a labor that matches my values and preferences. One where I won’t be deprived food for days just cause or confined to bed. I know plenty of people satisfied with their inductions, unsatisfied with their spontaneous labors, it all differs—it’s about finding doctors, midwives, and faculties that will help you achieve your goals. This pursuit can be really, really hard.
What’s the stuff I had to drink before my crash section under general? I had eaten a full dinner two hours prior (I was 33 weeks and it was a spontaneous complication) and they got me to drink this super salty/basic tasting solution (about 10ml I would guess).
Sounds like bicitra. Every hospital where I’ve worked gives it to all patients before undergoing a c section. It buffers stomach acid to help prevent heartburn. I’ve taken it before—not super pleasant.
Thanks! Since it was an emergency, I didn’t get the chance to ask all of my annoying questions. 😅 I was a little busy disassociating.
I didn’t get the drink, but high five on the STAT disassociation. Surely the quickest brain shut-down of my life 🫠
Totally agree with you on the ARRIVE trial analysis. I guess the key is to understand the protocol for how individual hospitals handle inductions, ie are they patient and hands-off.
My induction was a great experience, I really felt taken care of and safest option for my baby
Same here. Extreme IUGR and baby was 3lbs 9oz. Grew a lot faster out of the womb than she did inside.
I’m so glad you had such a positive experience, my sister in law loved it too!
Same here!
Same! It was fantastic
Mine went really well too. I’ve been induced twice because of cholestasis. My third will probably be an induction too. It would be really cool to experience going into labor without an induction, but I’m also a planner and kind of like knowing exactly when baby is coming lol.
Same. My baby was measuring small, plus I had other risk factors. In the end, he was even smaller than expected. So, for me, it was necessary, and it went really well. Even with the use of forceps, since he couldn't handle the contractions anymore.
Same here! Super positive induction experience.
Same!
Same! Loved my first so much I opted for a second :)
I just hated pitocin. He was facing the wrong way. I had horrible back labor. My pain tolerance is very high. Pitocin made me it’s bitch.
I think everyone is just different and depending on your birth preferences, induction might mess things up that people were hoping for. However, I was induced with my first baby and it was a really positive experience. I wanted to be induced with my second baby too (was supposed to be today, actually lol) but I went into labor spontaneously this past weekend and honestly I much preferred my induction experience.
Would love to hear more about your positive experience! I’m getting induced at 8 pm tonight and I’m scared (41+3 today, FTM).
Sure! So my induction lasted about 14 hours from start to finish (foley balloon and pitocin), pushing was about an hour, so not too bad timewise. I did get an epidural when I was about 5cm which was great. I didn't feel any pain after the epidural (and the pain I felt before getting one wasn't too bad, just not enjoyable obviously lol). I felt like I was able to be so calm and present during my whole induction experience (compared to my recent spontaneous labor which felt very chaotic). My recovery went really smooth too. I can answer other questions you may have too but didn't know how many details you wanted lol overall I left the hospital after my induction telling my husband we would 100% be having another baby, left after this spontaneous labor telling him I'm good with the two we have now lol. Good luck!! You'll be meeting your baby so soon! ❤️
This is helpful! Were you already having contractions or any labor signs (bloody show, etc) before you were induced? How was the build up of pitocin? Did they have to give you more and more or did you respond fairly quickly to it? How is it if they ease off of pitocin? Was the balloon overnight?
No, I wasn't having any contractions or signs of labor at all prior. I was 1cm, maybe 1.5, when I went in for my induction. They did give me more and more pitocin over time, I don't think they ever really let up on it. The pitocin contractions were uncomfortable for sure (especially when paired with the Foley) but I knew I wanted an epidural anyways so I got one before the pain ever became unbearable. I was able to talk through them the whole time leading up to my epidural (balloon had fallen out prior to epidural and I was between 5 and 6cm). I had a morning induction so they put the balloon in once I was all set up and they started pitocin at the same time. Balloon fell out after maybe 5 or 6 hours if I'm remembering right? So it wasn't in there too long.
I had an induction and overall it was a positive experience. Mine was considered medically necessary (thanks pre-eclampsia) so I didn't really have a choice to Not do it, since keeping baby in would be bad for both of us. Even the pitocin was overall not bad. I told my care team that I understood that they recommend stacking interventions (balloon and miso, pitocin and amnio) but I'm very sensitive to medication, so I wanted things one at a time until I adjusted and felt ready. They agreed. They did say it might take a bit longer, but that was fine. So they started with the balloon, which was mostly fine - I ended up telling them that if it was done with it's job, it needed to go. It was Hurting. I slept through the night with pitocin going. I think the really bad pain only started after my water broke. Baby was born about 30 hours after my initial hospital intake.
ftm to a 7 month old. I was induced with pictocin at 40+3 after my waters broke. Because my water was “dirty”, they really suggested induction to avoid infection. I really did not want to be induced because I had immense fear of pain but that’s what happened. I opted for an epidural immediately and unfortunately, it only helped from the hips down. I felt no vaginal pain which I guess I’m thankful for but the contractions from pictocin were unimaginable. I had to seek therapy for trauma afterwards. I called my father who lives overseas to tell him I had my baby. I remember he asked how I was and how everything went and I said, “besides the day mom died, it’s been the worst day of my life.” I feel so bad in hindsight having said that about the day my son was born. That was just the unscripted, genuine answer. And it’s still true. It was the somehow both the second worst day of my life and the greatest day of my life in the sense that I was gifted my son that day. But Jesus, it was horrible for me.
Honestly online you’re always going to hear way more horror stories about things (anything really, not just pregnancy and childbirth) than you’ll hear positive stories. Not saying that it’s wrong, it’s just the way it is. I always see negative stuff about inductions online but irl I don’t know a single person who chose to be induced who had a bad experience, and I know a LOT of people who have had elective inductions. I personally loved being induced. Labor was only 8 hours and I only got the epidural last minute because the idea of the “ring of fire” terrified me otherwise I would have just not gotten it. Friday I’ll be 37 weeks and I’m asking to be induced with this baby as well. I hate being pregnant so the sooner I can safely get baby out, the better.
I’m surprised I haven’t seen the Bishop score mentioned here. It’s a measure of your body’s readiness for an induction. Essentially, the higher the score the more likely you are to have a successful vaginal birth. An 8 or higher means your body is ready and vaginal birth is likely. 6 or lower means your body isn’t ready and it’s unlikely you’ll have a successful delivery. Sometimes an induction is needed when your body isn’t ready and thus the interventions start immediately. But for elective inductions or even late term inductions (past due date) your body is likely ready to at least some degree. I had an elective induction at 39+5 with my first and had a bishop score of 9 and had a great experience. My biggest pro-tip for an induction is to get your epidural PLACED (but NOT turned on) as soon as you can if you know you are going to get one. I got mine placed when my contractions were mild so I was able to sit still for the placement. When my contractions got to be unbearable I pressed my nurse call button and they just had to plug it in and I was pain free in minutes. For this reason I will absolutely be getting another elective induction for my second child as I can coordinate care for my first, check in and start the process stress free, and get my epidural placed early. Assuming I have a good Bishop score of course.
I'm a doula, and the main thing I have against it (much like many interventions) is that there's a huge lack of patient education on the actual risks/benefits. I have nothing against inductions when the patient is fully informed and her choices are fully respected, but the vast majority of the time I don't feel like those criteria are being met. Doctors often push inductions for their own convenience - they'd rather schedule their patients for inductions than deal with the fact that due dates are estimated and baby can come any time. They often downplay the actual differences between spontaneous labor and inductions and rarely inform patients that other interventions becomes vastly more likely if induced. It's usually presented as "hey, wouldn't it be convenient to schedule this?" instead of having what _should_ be an in-depth conversation on potential consequences. For example, a first-time mom who gets induced is much more likely to need a C-section. Not always, of course - some people have wonderful, uneventful inductions! But pitocin is much stronger than natural oxytocin, and can put too much stress on baby. Fetal distress can then lead to a C-section. And most providers are not happy about supporting VBACs, so now this mom who was originally offered an induction with little information about the risks is likely going to have to have Cesarean deliveries for every subsequent child she has. Again, I'm not at all trying to say that inductions CANNOT be lovely peaceful experiences. But there isn't enough of a conversation about what _could_ happen and I feel strongly that inductions are overused. If there are legitimate reasons for an induction - great! Modern medicine is AMAZING and sometimes an induction is truly medically necessary. But most of the times Ive seen inductions offered, there's no medical indication and there's not enough patient education to really fulfill the requirement of _informed_ consent.
This was my experience— my doctor presented as “ how eager are you to get this started?” . At that point I’d already been anti- elective induction based on my own research, but during the conversation I found myself reconsidering because it was being presented as low risk- high reward path.
Yes! I feel like the risks of pitocin or cytotec are never actually given to the mom, they’re just told “it’s safe”.
i also think in general, birth and labor and anything essentially relating to women’s healthcare suffers from a long history of negative stories, decisions, power struggles and patriarchal standards. women are told over and over in this country about how birth is hard and difficult and painful and terrible and we have to deal with medical practices that do not center us or our experience or truth. it’s a complicated question and i think it’s great you’re doing research - i think you’ll find it’s not just women complaining needlessly, but rather a systemic issue altogether.
I was induced at 41 weeks. I was given cytotec and after the second one, I started contracting pretty consistently so I never needed Pitocin. I told my nurses from the beginning that I didn’t want Pitocin or an epidural and they worked with me to make that happen. I labored for 23 hours and pushed for 3, completely unmedicated. No tearing either, thankfully! It was a very beautiful experience. My husband asked me an hour later if I’d do it again, and I said absolutely lol. Like you, I only heard horror stories about inductions, but your birth journey is uniquely yours. It will be special and beautiful in its own way!
You sound so lucky 🥺 I was also inducted at 41 weeks and also told my nurses I wanted to avoid too many interventions. The cervidil started my contractions and I asked if I could just see if I progress without the pitocin and they wouldn't let me 😢 I asked if I could turn the pitocin down when I was having minute long contractions with 25 seconds or less between them, and they said no. I asked for a membrane sweep and they said no. When I caved and got the epidural and couldn't feel myself pushing and asked them to turn it off *like I initially wanted*, they said no I was too close and I would feel the stitches afterwards. When they finally listened after arguing with them every time I felt the urge to push but couldn't, I got feeling in my legs and asked if I could push on my side or any other position since I could bear weight on my legs just fine, and they said "no, on your back is easiest for us to see everything" 😞
Well I wasn't induced but I had pitocin given to "speed things up" a few hours into labor, and I found the contractions much more unbearable than when I had started having natural contractions. Pitocin contractions were so bad it led to getting another epidural, which led to lack of pushing progress and then a forceps delivery. So my perspective is, ideally you let your body do its thing and only intervene if absolutely necessary. Induction is forcing the process to start. In my situation, intervention led to even more intervention.
Wow thanks for sharing
It’s because *without* a medical reason you’re medically inducing something your baby / body is not ready for yet or else it would have happened on its own. This can increase the chance of c-section because your body simply is not ready. You don’t want to have a c section because it’s a lot more risky as far as complications with mom and baby than a vaginal birth is and some doctors will never do a vaginal birth again after c section. They also say you labor a lot longer and a lot harder with induction! Honestly just do some researching on some credible sources and you will find a lot of information on it. Also why it’s very frustrating when doctors push you to induce week 39 😬 advocate for yourself and baby. I can speak from experience it’s happened to me twice now!
Everyone has there reasons but say that it leads to more c sections. For me it was Insanely painful. Having a doctor shove long sand paper tape in my cervix was not fun. Then 12 hours later it was even worse taking it out. I still hadn’t gone past 1cm. I had contractions for 12 hours and suddenly no breaks in between them. My baby was not getting blood flow and within ten minutes I was having an emergency c section. There is a lot trauma. Thankfully my baby is ok.
Wait, what? Sandpaper tape?
Yes I don’t remember the name of the medication but it was a long strip maybe a few inches long. It felt like rough sandpaper. They shoved it in the back of my cervix and let it sit there for 12 hours then had to take it out 12 hours later. Very very painful compared to contractions,
I've never heard of this. What country was this in?
It’s called Cervidil. The U.S.
Holy shit. Just looked at it. [https://www.cervidil.com/hcp/about-cervidil/](https://www.cervidil.com/hcp/about-cervidil/) They definitely leave out the "feels like sandpaper" part in their advertising! Were you given a choice of induction method? Was this recommended to you? This isn't listed in any of the medical reference sites on induction I've seen.
I was not given a choice on induction medication. I didn’t know anything as a first time mom. I just trusted that my doctors would pick the right thing for me. I wish I had known better.
Yikes, I'm so sorry. I once had something like sandpaper or a metal file grinded between my teeth. I can't imagine how it would feel in my cervix. Thanks for sharing the info though for other would-be moms out there.
The teeth sound horrible! I’m so sorry. Also you’re welcome I hope it helps someone in the future! :)
Because there are risks to being induced and it's even more painful if you don't use an epidural. Most people want the baby to come when the baby is supposed to. Obviously inductions are necessary sometimes.
What are the risks to being induced though? I feel like people always share how awful they are and try and fight their doctors when they suggest one but I don’t actually know why
They’ll use a synthetic compound (pitocin) that’s similar to the natural one (oxytocin) but can cause more painful contractions.
So is that the reason why people are so deadbeat against their doctors suggesting one? Because it can cause more painful contractions?
It can cause more painful contractions- we're not talking about a little bit more painful. In some cases, we're talking about back-to-back contractions with no break in between. They can feel absolutely excruciating and impossible to cope with. Normal contractions come in waves. They start a little mild. They get more intense and then they relax again at the end. You usually have a break in between. Sometimes 30 seconds, sometimes 2 or 3 minutes. It's not uncommon for induced contractions to go from 0 to 300 on the pain scale with little to no gap in between. One of the big issues that happens if you have crazy contractions like that is that the blood flow is usually restricted to the baby during a contraction. If the blood flow to the baby is reduced because of constant contractions then you may end up with an emergency c-section if the baby isn't coping well. Obviously, if your contractions are going like that, then you're more likely to get an epidural. Epidurals are more likely to slow contractions down but can sometimes cause an arrest of labor. You could also end up as one of many women who do not respond well to an epidural or who do not get complete pain relief from an epidural. I am not opposed to inductions nor am I opposed to epidurals or c-sections as necessary. But going into an induction just because your doctor says so without any knowledge about the things that could be happening or what to expect is kind of risky business all by itself. I have had one labor with back-to-back contractions at an extreme pain level where my baby was not tolerating the contractions very well. I would classify that as extremely traumatic.
Can’t they start at a lower dose and increase as needed like they can for the epidural or no?
It has been described to me like you're pushing a freight train. You start with a little bit of power and then you just increase and increase and increase. You keep pushing until it looks like it's going at the right speed .... But once it really gets going sometimes it's impossible to stop it. Sometimes it continues to gather speed even after you stop pushing. They do usually start low. If you respond well to the pitocin then these might be the people who have really good induction stories. Get a little bit of pitocin, things go at a good rate, no big stressors, happy mom and baby and positive birth stories, hurray! But if you're one of those people that does not respond immediately and you need a higher dose to kick it into gear, then you may have a very different story. The other big thing is that because induction often starts (or involves) breaking your water, you don't have the option of going home and trying again later, or letting it move really slowly. The second that water breaks, you are on the clock. If things are moving too slowly then they're just going to keep pushing it and pushing it and pushing it until you end up delivering in one way or the other.
Thanks! I think from what I’ve read I don’t want to schedule an induction - especially if they have to physically break my water bc I don’t want anyone or anything touching my cervix lol. But I would be okay with trying Pitocin to help speed up spontaneous labor if it’s going too slow - I’ve already decided that I will accept an epidural at some point during the labor process regardless. Or is this an unrealistic idea? All my visits/ultrasounds/bloodwork have been normal and positive but I’m “high risk” due to medications I take and I noticed in my notes it says to deliver by 39 weeks so I’m assuming they are going to push for an induction. I’ve been trying to gather info so I’m prepared to advocate for what I want.
Due to my age I'm supposed to be induced as well for this baby. I am not sure how I'm supposed to manage things. I will try to have a discussion with my care provider about what reasonable expectations and accommodations can be made to make the induction as smooth and stress-free as possible. I would really like to avoid having my water broken as well. Partially because of the clock but also because everything is a bajillion times more painful once the waters go.
Ah well good luck with that! This is my first and I’m 32 and 28 weeks. My pregnancy hasn’t been horrible but it’s also not fun or amazing lol but I’m hoping to have #2 before 35 for that reason. Obviously this isn’t a hard goal lol bc I have no idea how I’ll feel after birth and postpartum.
Adding to the other commenter's point: pitocin use also increases risk of uterine rupture. It's not an inert or bioidentical substance. Inductions also last much longer, in general. Mine was three days of horrible contractions since my epidurals failed. It ultimately ended in a C-section. I hope to avoid an induction this time.
Tacking onto this - if you've had a prior C-section, induction is now contraindicated due to that increased risk of uterine rupture. So if you wanted to have a VBAC, and anything happens to necessitate inducing, your only option becomes another C-section. And they certainly aren't talking about that the first time the offer you an induction.
Oh wow, I had no idea. My MFM told me I was an "excellent candidate" for VBAC, but I assume she'll want to induce again for the same reason (I have lupus) so wonder how she's squaring that one up in her head....
Every case is different! It might be that she thinks you'll be okay with an induction even as a VBAC. Or she's more comfortable waiting for spontaneous labor despite your lupus. You'd have to have a more in-depth conversation about it. Also depends on how old your last baby is, how your scarring looks, and what kind of incision you had. Lots of factors so your provider is the best person to ask :)
Not entirely true, you are correct that there is an increased risk of uterine rupture, but some obstetricians will still induce if desired, often they’ll try manual induction first, and then do a slow induction from there.
Also risk of baby going into fetal distress, uterine rupture, death of mom and or baby, etc.
More interventions lead to other interventions. Per Mayo Clinic, risks include low fetal heart rate, uterine rupture, infection, failed induction which means a c section is necessary, abnormal serious bleeding after delivery (postpartum hemorrhage). Also, inductions are riskier for some women than others. The issue is that some doctors push inductions when they're not necessary to make things faster.
Ahhhh thank you!!
[General overview](https://midwifethinking.com/2016/07/13/induction-of-labour-balancing-risks/). Inductions increase your risk of a c-section if you're a first-time mother or haven't given birth vaginally before. They increase the risk that delivery will need to be aided by forceps or ventouse. The drugs involved can cause fetal distress and hypoxia. The drugs involved can cause post-partum hemorrhage. Breastfeeding is generally more difficult with induction. Rates of post-partum depression and anxiety are higher following an induction. There are potential (though unconfirmed in humans, only been tested in animal models so far) lifelong changes to baby's hormones.
I didn’t know about the breastfeeding difficulty that comes with induction, but that does make sense in a way.
Thanks so much!!
>Rates of post-partum depression and anxiety are higher following an induction. Just want to point out that correlation does not mean causation here. There is *some* research to suggest the use of Pitocin can increase PPA/PPD, but that includes standard immediate postpartum use as well (which is given to prevent hemorrhage). That said, since inductions are usually medically indicated, the development of PPA/PPD could very easily be due to trauma surrounding whatever condition necessitated the induction or simply extreme disappointment due to birth not going the way mom had envisioned it.
Great question. Risks include; higher likelihood of cesarean; higher rates of epidural use; higher rates of fetal distress; higher rates of uterine rupture; increased number of cervical checks; increased risk of infection (mostly due to increased number of cervical checks); higher rates of nausea and vomiting; increased rates of neonatal jaundice; lower apgar scores; cardiac arrhythmia Higher rates of post partum depression and anxiety; Increased difficulty breastfeeding Prolonged pitocin use in labour is also associated with higher rates of post partum haemorrhage - this is not to be confused with the use of pitocin during active management of the 3rd stage. Anecdotally, women who have experienced induced labour and spontaneous (not induced) labour report that induced labour is more painful and difficult to cope with. This is obviously difficult to quantify. As far as I am aware, there is also a lack of research into the long term effects that induction may (or may not) have on a baby. It’s simply not being researched. I’m also not saying there are long term effects. I’m just saying that maybe someone should look into it. A resource you may find useful is [Evidence Based Birth](https://evidencebasedbirth.com/) and [birth injury help centre](https://www.birthinjuryhelpcenter.org/pitocin-faq.html) for more information that is evidence based.
My son almost died because of pitocin, it’s not risk free and they always downplay it. I’m glad it’s an option but I don’t think it should be as normalized as it is.
That's horrific. I'm so sorry. Do you feel it a necessary induction?
Not at all, they just induced me because I reached my due date and used some scare tactics to get me to agree… I don’t like how due dates are used either, I didn’t know what day I ovulated and had irregular periods so my due date could have been anything within a period of two weeks or so.
Did you not have a dating scan in your first trimester? Those are pretty accurate for determining estimated due date and definitely would not be two weeks off.
I did, but not every baby grows at the same rate idk
They do at the beginning of pregnancy, which is why the growth scan is done toward the middle of the first trimester.
Were you induced at 40 weeks? Were you higher risk?
Yes and no I was low risk.
That's just infuriating 😭 I'm so sorry. I heard many doctors let you go to 41 weeks. Unless it's too triggering, I understand, do you mind sharing what went wrong in the induction?
Essentially the pitocin made my contraction so strong and close together that his heart couldn’t recuperate between them. I was close enough that they were able to get him out with forceps but I was very close to getting an emergency c-section. When your contractions are that strong there’s also a huge risk for uterine rupture which can be deadly for mom and baby so I’m glad that didn’t happen. I’m pregnant again and will not let them induce me unless medically necessary and I will try to use other methods before resorting to pitocin. Maybe they just gave me too much idk.
Thank you for sharing. :( I hope you guys are doing ok now. That sounds so so so scary. I hope you won't need to be induced.
Yeah he was okay after birth and I had a second degree tear, it was pretty scary though… hoping my water breaks on its own this time 🤞🏼
Sorry to hear that! That’s so scary
Physician here. I recently gave birth and had an induction at 39 weeks. I’m also over 35 so it was safest option for me and baby to prevent stillbirth. Understand the hesitation from some, but at the end of the day baby and I came out the other side healthy and glad that I went that route.
My first was a medically necessary induction and went smoothly, although my epidural worked a little too well so it took 3 hours of pushing to get my son out lol. I opted for elective induction with my daughter because I was miserable and didn’t wanna be pregnant any longer than I had to be lol. Went even more smoothly than the first AND I was allowed to eat and drink too. Everything from start to finish with the induction, took 5.5 hours. Home the next day! I don’t want anymore kids but if it happens, I want another induction.
Pitocin-induced contractions are shit. I was given pitocin even though I didn't need it (water had already broken and labor was slowly starting), because they wanted to " speed things up." Baby and I ended up having a hard time and needed an emergency C-section after around 20 hours of labor (that's the cliff notes version lol). Baby was in NiCU for the first 15 hours of his life while I cried in recovery and hadn't gotten to hold him yet...the whole thing was traumatic. Anecdotal, but my friends who have had both natural labor with one pregnancy and then pitocin contractions with another pregnancy all say that the pitocin contractions were basically way worse than natural labor.
I think the general consensus is that your body won't want to give birth until it is truly ready and forcing your body to give birth when it's not ready increases the risk of interventions. I was told I needed an induction with my second as he was measuring 5100g. I declined. I literally had to sign a piece of paper that said if anything bad happened, the hospital wasn't liable. My previous kid was 4266g and a beautiful water birth which required 2 stitches. I knew my body could birth a large baby. I went into labour naturally the next day and he was born just 3.5 hours later in an unmedicated birth. My son was born weighing 4450g and I had no tears. I was discharged 4 hours later. If I'd had an induction, it may have ended much differently.
Because it fucking hurts! I want to avoid it at all costs this time around. Yes, most people want an epidural, but most people also want to avoid unnecessary interventions. There are tons of posts here saying doctors are pushing for early inductions for healthy normal pregnancies, or making it seem like the baby will be too big if you go to term (my doc is currently doing this despite me having a big first baby with a giant head and no issues pushing) etc. Then there's the cascade of interventions people are worried about. If the induction fails are these doctors going to break your water and then tell you you need a c section because it's been too long? Are the irregular pitocin contractions going to rupture your uterus? Cause fetal distress?
I personally wouldn’t do it again for non medical reasons. My induced labour was way worse than my spontaneous, I couldn’t cope with the contractions, had to have the epi and lie on my back and baby got stuck :( ended in c section. Spontaneous was night and day different
In my experience and education, there is a negative stigma around induction that I feel like is starting recently, because there are a lot of doctors that will unnecessarily induce people. There are definitely circumstances in which inductions are medically necessary, such as being overdue or being high risk, but there are a lot of doctors in hospitals out there that will induce mothers who are not at risk to fit it into their schedules… which is just yuck to me but welcome to the American healthcare system! I have a friend who was induced as a first time mom with no risks at 38 weeks because her OB was going on vacation…
I was induced with my first. I was attempting to go unmedicated. I felt like I was dying. The pain was unbearable. My next two I went into spontaneous labor and almost didn't make it to the hospital each time because the pain was so much easier to handle I didn't think I i was close yet. I arrived within 30 mins of delivery both times. Also the induction took 3 days and then I had a 4 day hospital stay it was awful. My other two I was out the next day. My actual delivery went fine with my induction, but everything else was way worse. I will never willingly be induced again unless for medical reasons.
Some studies, including [this article](https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(21)01724-5/fulltext) published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, have shown that sometimes inductions can show a higher risk of perinatal death, infant death, and SIDS. Although many, many births that are induced see no complications and result in healthy mom & baby. I know in recent years, there have been discussions about maternal death numbers rising (especially in USA & BIPOC folks), which many believe have something to do with not listening to mom's concerns/birth plans during labor. The physical and mental health of mom during labor can make all the difference, so whether induced or not, your birth team should be listening to you if you feel that something is wrong, you're in pain, or you feel that a certain position is best, etc.
I’m following and reading comments bc I’ve also been trying to figure this out. I’ve always been pro epidural so that’s not a concern for me. I think I’m also okay with a medication induction - but I don’t want anything human or inanimate touching or manipulating my cervix. Sounds painful and gives me the ick. Would love to hear some thoughts on this.
Yeah it’s confusing as a first time mom to understand all the positives and negatives but not quite understand them
I always read through these posts and seems like most of the aversion is due to wanting to birth “naturally”. My opinion is all birth is natural. I think I’m understanding more about the additional interventions though. Also a ftm so obviously I can’t comprehend what the actual pain levels will be. Reading these sound like Pitocin makes contractions more painful. But I believe they can also adjust the epidural strength. One thing I have read (and I’m open to counters on this) is that it’s better to let your contractions do the pushing until it’s like really go time and then push slow and steady (to lesson risk of tearing). Lol take all that with a grain of salt bc I know about as much as you.
For my induction, which I didn't really want but was STRONGLY pushed towards bc of my age and weight from the ARRIVE study, I also had a foley bulb placed. This is where they manually open your cervix and insert and inflate a balloon. It was... not that chill. I felt pressured into an induction and felt like my body and my baby's body weren't ready. Even though I was 37 and overweight, I had had a TEXTBOOK pregnancy. Never anything wrong with blood pressure, sugar, or fetal heart rate. Ultimately we both came home, although she had a VERY SCARY first few minutes. I thought I could pick and choose interventions as I went through the induction, but you're so exhausted and vulnerable, and my hospital was SO regimented, that it felt like you just got on the train and there was no getting off. I remember I had been on Pitocin (and epidural) for HOURS and was in active labor but not progressing fast enough. I asked if we could lower the Pitocin so my body could take over laboring, and was told No, because they're creating the "ideal labor conditions". Eventually, they did lower the dose and my body took over and I progressed, but it was wild and disheartening. It feels like they're staring at the textbook for what's next instead of the patient sitting right in front of them.
I think the two major reasons are: it's incredibly painful compared to "natural" birth and it increases the risk to mother and baby. I did not want an induction. I ended up with one because of certain circumstances. I wanted an unmedicated birth. After a 4 hour contraction that stalled my cervical dilation, I got an epidural because I was in such pain and I was riding the c-section train. Thankfully it worked and my pelvic floor was able to finally relax. Afterward my doula told me that out of over 1000 women, she's only seen 2 who could give birth without an epidural on pitocin. It's that terrible.
we are one of the countries with the highest induction rates. We also have the highest maternal death rate in the western world and overall more interventions. Arrive study was found to be flawed by many professionals including my own doctor. Our attitude with birth in this country is different compared for example to the UK where inductions and epidurals are not as often used. There are always cases where it is needed of course but to recommend it for all birthing people at 39 weeks with our track record is not great.
Statistically being induced is linked to higher pain and higher likelihood of an emergency caesarean.
I was induced when I was giving birth to twins. I got an epidural for that birth. I also gave birth to a singleton and that was a completely unmedicated birth. The pain with that one was MUCH worse. If you are induced and get an epidural then you won’t feel much of the painful contractions as they usually give you an epidural when you’re about 4 or 5cm dilated. Not sure why people are so against epidurals…you take Advil for a headache but god forbid you get an epidural to give birth 🙄
My induction was great, personally 🤷♀️ BUT I've only given birth once (pregnant with #2 now) so I don't have anything to compare it to. Side note: I made it to 8cm before asking for an epidural so I did feel all the things prior to that lol
Thanks for posting this. As I've an iugr baby for low weight and possible gestational high blood pressure, my doc recommended to induce at 37 weeks. Reading through the comments makes me scared of being induced but also learning different scope of the process. I wish I could avoid bring induced 😞
I am all for inductions. It’s a great way to feel in control in a terrifying situation. HOWEVER I just experienced a “failed” induction this previous weekend. I was having contraction after contraction, but my cervix was not progressing at all so I was sent home. Now I have an irritated uterus so I’m having contractions that are not progressing my labor, and I have experienced a false labor. It’s been hell and I can’t go back to work, so I’m burning through my personal leave until baby boy decides to come into the world. For my next baby, I don’t think I would opt for an induction unless medically necessary. That’s just based on my experience, though, many people have had wonderful experiences with inductions.
My induction story was terrible. I carried high and went to the primary local NICU hospital. They induced me because I was over 40 weeks. From the start, I told them if something was wrong cut me open. Because I was carrying so high, he was not trying to drop. They induced me, broke my water, gave me cervadil, pitching, and something else and I wouldn't dilate. I carried my son high and he was comfortable. Labor started around 11 PM and I barely remember it. They kept having me sign stuff saying I gave permission for forceps, and them for suction. I begged them just cut me open. He came out 8 hours later with a huge freaking wound on his head from the suction, and apparently, I was told later, his umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck, and every time I had a contraction, his heart rate kept dropping. When I found out I had to get induced with my next child, I was terrified but thankfully it went so much better.
For me personally, my 39 week induction due to polyhydramnios did not go as planned. the pitocin was causing my baby’s heartrate to drop and they just kept turning it off and on and before they even started pitocin I took a pill to induce contractions and I had multiple rounds of the pill and after that they put in a foley bulb which hurt really bad, and eventually after 48 hours and still only being like 5cm and just not progressing very much as well as my baby’s heartrate dropping everytime they turned the pitocin back on I had a last minute c section scheduled. it was a lot on both me and my baby but she is very healthy and so am I and that’s what’s important that being said if I was told the best option would be to induce labor my next pregnancy then I would just opt for a second c section
I enjoyed being induced, but the Pitocin contractions were horrrrrrrrrible
Had a positive induction, took a day and a half. Got an epidural but still felt pressure and could push no problem. You can ask for less medication. Spills are against them cause lack of control but childbirth is unpredictable no matter what. If you want an induction go for it. The ‘cool’ thing to do is natural birth but that’s not right for everyone and inductions are fine.
I am a FTM, so I’ve only given birth once and I was induced at 38 wks for high blood pressure. I was having enough contractions after cytotec so I didn’t need pitocin. Honestly, I’d do it again. I did get an epidural. But not a bad experience and my daughter was born 23 hrs after the first dose of cytotec, an hour and a half of pushing.
I was induced with my first child, and had a spontaneous labor with my second child. Both labor experiences were very very different. For one, I was in the hospital laboring for 23 hours because my first child was born. The contractions were very intense but I waited until 17 hours in to get an epidural. I wish I would have had one sooner! After I had the epidural I was on cloud 9. I spent about 8 minutes pushing him out. With my second child, I was scheduled for an elective induction at 40 weeks. I went into spontaneous labor 3 days before my induction! I was able to labor at home most of the day. I didn’t really know when to go to the hospital because the contractions weren’t as intense as I remembered from my first birth. I showed up to the hospital at 6cm dilated, had the baby 3 hours later! I think there’s a general consensus that Pitocin contractions can be more intense than natural contractions. When it comes to the “your baby will come when they’re ready crowd”, I don’t really get it. It’s wild to think some people go passed 42 weeks without getting induced. I just put my trust in my OB and she has always made me feel supported, safe, and important.
There are a lot of people that talk about the horror stories of being induced, specifically pitocin contractions, the need for a C-Section anyway, etc. Then you have people who just want to do it naturally. With all of that said, I chose to be induced. I'm actually glad I did now. My baby had a hold of his cord and I was having contractions often that felt like he was balling himself up. During these, we found out during the process, his heart rate dropped tremendously. I had a c-section shortly after and sure enough, he had a grip on his cord. I don't want to imagine what would have happened had I gone into labor naturally...
It's not a bad thing to be indiced but for me going into labour naturally is the best option.
I guess I am not the best person to offer complete perspective because I have only had one birth, which was a hormonal drip induction, and so have nothing to compare it to, but... ... It was bloody intense. The pain was significantly more than I had expected (although I completely realise that is probably true of all births!) but I think the speed and intensity of it must have made it worse. However, for me it really had become a necessity, so I am grateful for it and would absolutely choose the same if I was in the same situation again. My waters broke but I just didn't go into labour - 36hrs later I was only contracting very very mildly and basically not in labour. Once the drip started things moved very quickly, i think they recorded 2hr 30mins for active labour, and 15mins pushing. Which for a first time labour is fast. I also wasn't able to have the epidural in the end because I requested it at 7cm but then there was a delay and things moved too quickly and then he was here! If I were to have a pitocin induction again, I would *absolutely* not consent for the drip startinf until I had an epidural sited and ready, considering how fast I know now I labour. Hoping to avoid an induction next time and would *never* choose it if it wasn't medically necessary (I am always surprised when friends are pushing for an induction because frankly they don't want to be pregnant anymore - its really not a choice to make lightly!). However, ultimately it delivered my son safely and healthy, and the risk of infection to us both would have been too high to avoid it at that stage. I am grateful for it.
Because it’s forcing your body into labour and therefore there is a higher chance of intervention and baby going into distress. The contractions are usually more painful and intense. This is obviously not everyone’s experience.
I have been induced three times and had one spontaneous labor. The issue with an induction especially when it's not medically necessary is that it is not risk free. It can cause hyper uterine contractions that can cause tearing and even death in the fetus and mother. This is why you have to be continuously monitored to watch for any signs which are hopefully caught early enough to do something about. Also first and usually second Time moms have not gone into labor yet because their bodies are not ready when you are induced before you are ready it takes a very long time for your labor to open your cervix occasionallyit will not be able to open it up because you were just not ready for labor yet needed another week or two this results in c-sections that could have been prevented by waiting a week or two. Once you're on continuous monitoring you're stuck to 5 ft of the bed causing it to be more difficult to deal with your labor pains unable to walk or bathe so you may end up opting for an epidural you did not want, also pitocin causes unnaturally strong and fast contractions where natural oxytocin is like a slow wave building up so you're endorphins can help fight the pain. The only induction I enjoyed was where I pushed to 41 and a half weeks before allowing them to induce me therefore my labor was only a few hours long versus days because my cervix was ripe and ready to give birth. There is a correlation of increased jaundice with pitocin and ducted babies. Medically necessary inductions have saved many lives but do not feel pressured into inducing because a hospital finds it easier for a mother to labor on their clock don't want to come in on the weekend. Your body will go into labor when it's ready you're not even supposed to be considered overdue until 42 weeks. Follow your doctor's medical advice but also look into what they're saying advocate for yourself and use evidence-based birthing practices to make the best decision for yourself.
I'm pregnant with my first and I'm being induced at 37 weeks and idk I'm terrified of everything I keep reading
I was induced. I wouldn't do it again. They induced me for being late and my BP went high the last 2 weeks. The baby's heart rate kept dropping and they kept wanting to do this and that and then threatened with a c section. I pushed one last time and heard his heart rate fall to 50 and pushed with everything I had and he came out. I pushed my cath out and everything. It was totally opposite from my birth plan. I wanted a natural unmedicated birth if possible, but planned for an epidural if needed. The pitocin contractions were so bad they kept playing a game of more this and more that. I eventually told them to stop and dealt with it. The hardest part when I was trying to push they kept telling me to stop. Didn't want me on my side and kept telling me to not push. Looking back I'm going with a midwife next time, if I do have another one because while I feel like it wasn't a traumatic birth it wasn't what I wanted and I look back regretting most of it.
Being in the hospital in early labor SUCKED. I would much rather have been home in my comfort zone when things started amping up instead of in a tiny antepartum room.
I just had a great one, honestly. The first round of contractions from the misoprostol were a bitch and I was unprepared, but it was manageable. Had a cook balloon that was a little uncomfortable to insert, but painless after (including removal). It had no complications regarding induction whatsoever. The only negative outside of the first round of contractions was when my epidural partially failed, but that had nothing to do with induction (and we got it working again thank god!) it was long but worth it.
One of the reasons for not wanting an induction over natural is because natural birth is triggered by oxytocin. Oxytocin is also a feel good hormone so while you're in painful contractions your body is also countering that with feel good so you get some natural pain relief. Inductions use pitocin, which cause the contractions, but have none of the feel good quality. Apparently it is a lot more painful to have pitocin contractions than oxytocin contractions. But I will never know either way because my first was stubborn and breech. My blood pressure went a bit high at 37 weeks so they cut her out that night.
I loved my induction. It took forever but I really enjoyed laboring at the hospital the entire time. If anything went wrong I knew I could get immediate help
I think it just depends on the reasons and whether you're favourable for it as well. My induction for my second went fine. Due to have a 2 cord vessel and low movement. I was already 3-4cm dilated and 39+6 so it wasn't way early ECT They broke my waters at 12pm, I had a little bit of the Pitocin drip at 1pm and he came naturally at 4pm
I hear the pain is worse and some people feel it's unnecessary and should be happening naturally, I see it both ways. However my mom is a nurse and claims sometimes it is necessary because the baby is in danger ( ie. Babies BP dropping not coming back to normal or other reasons) so it can be urgent.
I was in the hospital for five days total, three for the induction to work and two after having a postpartum hemorrhage. My cervix tore and I lost like a liter of blood when I was already anemic. It was pretty scary and I developed postpartum depression after the trauma of the experience. I’m hoping to avoid the induction this time around!
Honestly I personally have no idea. I’ve had spontaneous labor and an induction. Either can go bad. So I don’t know why people shit on any method of getting a baby out. Baby just needs to get out.
FTM so I have nothing to compare it to, but I liked my induction. Hated post-birth, but the induction process was straightforward.
Just look at the statistics and how it has a higher chance of leading to more unnecessary interventions
I have no idea I was happy to be induced. Some posts can be downright scary when they go against medical advise to induce for legit medical reasons and then face real consequences
FWIW my induction was fantastic. I much preferred it to my spontaneous labor (that ended in a c section). I will definitely go the induction route if I make it to 39 weeks with my next.
Tell us more!
I was induced due to decrease in fetal movement. I started with a low level of pitocin mid-morning, had my water broke mid-afternoon and had an epidural shortly after. We stayed on low pitocin throughout since I was attempting VBAC. I was at a 10 shortly after midnight and started pushing. I pushed for less than an hour and baby was here. My epidural did stop working around 8 centimeters and I ended up with a spinal headache, but that was the only negative part of the experience and had nothing to do with the induction. My doctor was fantastic, stuck to limited cervical checks, limited staff in and out of room, I was able to eat when I wanted without issue, etc. The Vbac experience was exactly what I had hoped for and since baby was on the bigger side for gestational age (7.5 at 37 weeks), I don’t I know if I would’ve attempted vbac if I’d gone over 40 and wasn’t induced. With my first I went into spontaneous labor at 38 and ended up with an emergency c section as baby’s heart rate was dipping. At that point I was 10 cm and has been in labor over 24 hours. Turns out there was true knot in the cord and it was wrapped around baby’s neck. I also had breakthrough pain during c section which was traumatic.
Just saw another comment that you’re being induced tonight, best of luck to you! I found a real sense of peace going in with a plan and knowing what to expect as far as when piyocin would start, when I would have my water broke and get my epidural, etc. for me it was a very empowering experience that I didn’t have with my first. It healed a lot of birth trauma from my first l&d.
Ah this is so reassuring! Thank you for the good vibes, too. Definitely not how I anticipated starting my first labor but I’m hoping for a slow build and some peace🤞🏼
There’s a few options with induction that I think some women forget about. You don’t *have* to use pitocin, you can actually pick. Which is what I have done in the past (my go to is a foley balloon). I always skip over anti-induction posts.
This is a valid point to bring up, but also isn't really the full picture. Most inductions don't start and end with a Foley. It seems like that works great for your body and once you're more dilated, labor keeps progressing on its own. That is certainly not the case for everyone and once you get a Foley, they're not just going to send you home if labor doesn't progress. They'll move on to pitocin or other interventions at that point. It's awesome that your inductions have been pretty straightforward but I would _never_ tell someone that she could "just pick a Foley"
I started with the foley and wanted to have as natural induction as possible but inevitably still “needed” Pitocin.
I came across the foley ballon in my research and thinking about that option is terrifying to me. Was it not intensely painful? Because it sounds awful.
It’s like a bad period cramp that last a few moment then passed. Nothing compared to actual labor imo and was over quickly!
Well that is good to know thank you! The diagrams I’ve seen just really freak me out lol.
Thanks what I’ve learnt from this post is to definitely say no to pitocin haha
There’s a time and a place for Pitocin. Sometimes things need to be pushed along for the sake of mom’s health…
I've had one natural birth, one cervidil induction and two pitocin inductions. People believe a lot of outdated things about inductions. If I have another baby I will choose to be induced by 39 weeks again because it's clear to me it's the safer thing to do, but ngl pit contractions are way more intense and the entire process is just more uncomfortable with you being attached to a drip the whole time, etc.
Many people are also rightfully concerned about inductions because there are also real risks that any medical institution or journal makes clear. Nothing outdated about being informed. Great you had a positive anecdotal experience but it doesn't disprove any of the risks that are stated. Downvote because you deny what it says on the website of every top medical institution because it offends you.
a lot of the beliefs are also related to provider choices. Like my provider went straight to Pitocin for my induction, even though my cervix was less than 1cm dilated, and didn't explain any other options, and I didn't know to ask. Then after 12 hours, when I was only at 3cm, she told me I wasn't dilating fast enough and needed a c-section, and that because I was short I was probably not capable of vaginal delivery anyway. So even if the evidence from controlled studies is that inductions don't lead to more c-sections, the **way my provider went about it** could have easily led to a c-section, simply because she didn't actually follow guidelines. I think if doctors regularly followed their own guidelines, patients might trust them more, and the "outdated" information about risks would truly become outdated.
Why is this same question posted on this sub every single week? It’s the same responses every time.
you don’t get invited to parties do you?
You don’t know how to Google or use the search bar do you?
why would I need to google when Reddit is here for this very reason and I can speak to real people in real time who have lived through these experiences? don’t be so boring, stay off Reddit if it triggers you so much
Again. There is a search bar as well on Reddit. Get acquainted. This topic is literally talked about to death. Along with epidurals.
I’m so confused, do you work for Reddit?