Drug-free birth vs. pitocin-induced birth

though i'm not prego yet with our hopeful second child, i wanted to get some info on natural birth. my background: i am all for medical advancements to make things easier, so if i want less pain during my labor, i'm all for it. (hey, people take meds for headaches, colds, etc...) since i was almost 10 months prego, i was practically forced to give birth. with pitocin. with a horrible nurse who wouldn't give me any epidural because i didn't dilate at all. it was sooooo awful, and they finally gave me the epidural after i was screaming and moaning for at least an hour, if not more. i think i was contracting every other minute or every two minutes with pitocin without pain meds. btw, i began to dilate quickly once i was able to relax after the epidural. i'm grateful that the baby was healthy, but the experience was horrifying.

so here's the question: how do labor pains from pitocin and pitocin-free births compare? are natural labor pains more tolerable? i'm not against epidurals, but i feel like the doctors won't let labor progress naturally because they just think about getting the baby out quickly. unless it's medically necessary, i'm totally against using pitocin, and i feel like if i'm adamant about a drug-free birth, the hospital will be more respectful about not forcing pitocin on me.

thanks in advance. pain-phobic, pitocin-labor-phobe

My second birth was just 3 weeks ago. This time I went into labor at work at 8am. By the time my husband came to my work to get me and drive down to Santa Clara, I was already 9cm dilated. We were admitted at 11:30 am and my daughter was born at 1:11pm. So a much shorter labor. And no pitocin needed this time. No IVs nor pain meds. So given it's your 2nd child, you may not be needing the pitocin.

As for labor pain, both times feel similar, there is a 3 year gap so can't say my memory is all there. But the delivery pain felt stronger this time, I felt everything was ripping down there, yet surprisingly I got the tiniest tear this time around.

Best wishes to you. Crystal

I intended to go med-free with my first birth, but my water broke and I had no contractions, so I was induced with pitocin. At about 5cm (not that I knew I was 5cm when I asked for it) the pain felt way too intense and I asked for (and got) an epidural. I then labored relatively comfortably for another 5 hours, then pushed rather painfully -despite the epidural- for 3 1/2 hours.

With my second, I basically anticipated a repeat of #1 and didn't put as much thought into it. BUT, I ended up with no pitocin, no epidural, not even an IV for fluids! It was not one of those too quick to do it situations, I just in the moment decided to go for it and then I kept on going for it. In the back of my mind I remembered one study arguing that babies breastfed more readily when they came out drug-free. I'm not even sure that study is true, but since #1 breastfed horribly, I was really focused on that thought this time.

So the cons with #2: it REALLY hurt. And then I hemorrhaged (didn't with #1) and ended up feeling more ill after birth of #2 than I had after #1 with all the drugs in my system. And, after all that, #2 had just as many breastfeeding problems as #1.

But the pros: kind of cool to get to say I did it, and heck, it's all over in a matter of hours anyway. Also, not sure if this one went faster because it was #2 or because it was med-free, but either way it DID go faster. (Light contractions first began at 4pm, baby was born by 5:45am next day-- vs. #1: water broke at noon, baby born 11:15am next day.)

As for pitocin labor vs. ''regular'' labor--honestly they both hurt. Everyone said pitocin labor was worse, which was a thought that powered me through at least the first 5cm of labor #2...but I'm not sure it was that much worse.

My best advice to you is go in with an open mind, but if you think you are going to want pain meds find a doctor/midwife/hospital that you believe won't pressure you not to have them! (And visa versa if you think you are going to lean med-free) because to me the worst part of either birth experience was with #1, when I was telling them I didn't want an IV and would prefer to walk the halls to induce labor (etc.) and they just kept haranguing me until I caved.

I also suggest a birth doula no matter what style of birth you end up going with. I wish you the best with your future family! Mom of 2 who tried it both ways

On my second, everything progressed more quickly (I was already more dilated when I was induced). I went in armed with a piece of advice from a dear friend of mine (who is also an OB/Gyn). It was 'no pain...uh, no pain.' I felt a little less tied to my need for no medicine. I had an epidural after about 5-hours of labor and out popped number two. All was well.

Do what works for you...ignore people who want to pressure you into doing it their way... -anon

It seems that every woman experiences childbirth pain differently, based on the accounts given by other mothers. Of course, a lot has to do with your body and physical shape (being tall or short, fit or not, your tolerance to pain, etc), but I strongly believe there is a huge mental aspect to it as well. For myself, I would describe the physical pain as very intense menstrual cramps. However, what struck me the most was how I needed to focus and relax when I felt a contraction coming on. If something distracted me or someone was talking to me, it became overwhelming and the contraction was much worse than the ones where I was left alone and I could concentrate on what was happening. ''Losing control'' during a contraction was an awful feeling but if I just took big breaths and relaxed, the contraction really did feel manageable. I am tall (5'8'') and tried to keep fit during my pregnancy, which probably contributed to my speedy 7-hour labor, but I am really glad I had a natural birth and would do it again in a heartbeat. A friend of mine who just had her third child had her naturally whereas she had her first 2 with an epidural. She told me she felt much better afterwards than with the epidural which gave her a headache and did not make her feel well.

I also strongly believe that walking or simply standing upright helps speed things along, specially early in labor. Having an epidural confines you to bed, so I would wait as long as possible before getting one, if you must have one at all. I hope this helps! Emilie

The contractions hurt about the same amount for each labor, but the difference was that in the pitocin labor the contractions came more frequently, had ''doubling'' (a small ineffective but still painful contraction following the ''real'' one), and were at high levels throughout the entire 11 hour labor. In other words, it was very active labor (bordering on transition type labor) for the entire 11 hours. And I felt no push urge; I was told when I was dilated, and pushed as directed, but did not feel the urge - I assume this was pitocin related, but am not sure.

The totally natural labor was so much more pleasant. Contractions, although painful, started off slowly and built up through out labor (which only lasted 4 hours). I felt like I was riding the labor, instead of being dragged along, if that makes sense. It was a wild ride, but awesome. I progressed quickly, and my water broke and I went from 5cm to 10cm in about 15 minutes, and then the push urge hit and it was amazing. My body knew just what to do (even though the doctor was not in the room, and nurses were saying to wait). In my case, there would not have been time for an epidural, even had I wanted it. I was only at the hospital for about 1/2 hour before my baby was born.

In retrospect, I realize the pitocin labor was extremely difficult. The two experiences were completely different. But don't get me wrong, the second labor still hurt, but was much, much more tolerable. Trish

I read Ida May Gaskin's book, ''Ina May's Guide to Childbirth'' and that contained numerous stories of childbirth, such that I became unafraid of what was to come. I also read ''The thinking woman's guide to childbirth'' which really freaked me out about hospitals.

I think the way to get through labor meds-free is to surrender to the experience, not have fear, and know that our bodies are capable of doing it. This is what I used as mantra. The water tub certainly helped too. Good luck Science Mama

With my second, I labored naturally from start to finish. Like the first it hurt like mad, but it seemed like my body was doing what it had to do, so it was tolerable! Good luck! Not a fan of pitocin

With baby #2, I went into labor naturally and had mild contractions all day before finally getting to the point of going to the hospital at midnight. I requested an epidural right away this time, but was told that it was too early and I needed to dilate more. I labored all night and finally at 8 or 9am got an epidural. Boy was I happy! My baby was born 3 hours later, after only 30 min of pushing. (BTW, I did a lot of walking this time, which I had ''missed'' the first time, but when I was doing it thought ''Why did I want to walk?'' All I wanted to do was lie down! So be careful what you wish for.)

BTW, both babies were born totally healthy and alert and neither had any problems nursing. Some people, when hearing about birth #1 call it ''natural'' which is crazy to me. I had pitocin, an IV, fetal monitor, was flat on my back the whole time. The only thing I didn't have was *pain relief*. The second time felt much more natural to me, but after 8 hours in the hospital I had an epidural so it doesn't count as ''natural''. Whatever.

The bottom line is, don't let them scare you off of getting pain relief because you don't want pitocin. In my experience, the contractions were similar with pitocin and without, they were just more frequent with. Don't let them bully you. Also, don't go in there alone. Be sure to bring someone who can advocate for you. A woman in labor shouldn't have to make these decisions and arguments. Best of luck to you!

VBAC Induction?

I am hoping to have a VBAC with my second child (first babe was footling breech). My due date is tomorrow, but the baby hasn't dropped, I'm not dilated, and my cervix isn't effaced. My doctor told me today that she is reluctant to induce labor with pitocin (at 42 weeks) but would maybe consider a small amount. She really would prefer me having a C-section if I don't go into labor naturally. We're going to try all the natural induction methods first, but I am feeling worried. . . I really do not want to have another C-section. Has anyone been induced for their second birth after having a C-section? How was the experience? Also, any thoughts on the risks of uterine rupture with pitocin? Hoping for a VBAC

That said, I had c-section (emergency) for baby #1 and trying to decide what route to go. A c-section + toddler is not an ideal situation, but I am clear, after both my first birth experience as well as previous pregnancy losses, that bringing home a healthy baby is my first priority. I don't think I would do an induction - again, from what I have read - but I may plan a c- section. I have a few months to decide. I hope you don't have to make this decision & your baby comes out on its own! Good luck

I completely understand your desire for a VBAC. However, in case that doesn't work out for you, I would like to add that the recovery from my second C-section (since I didn't go into labor naturally) was MUCH easier than the first. I wish you all the best for a healthy delivery. Anonymous

One thing to remember though - you are not overdue yet. ''Term'' is considered 37-42 weeks, though you wouldn't know it from the way we fixate on due dates. So you've still got two weeks before you're overdue. A lot can happen in two weeks - perhaps you can trust that your baby & body know what to do and you will go in to labor easily and soon. It doesn't hurt to talk to your baby about that too - let him/her know what you want and ask baby what s/he needs to be born. I feel for you - and I wish you a peaceful & powerful VBAC. Annemarie

Elective induction: pros and cons

I am pregnant with my second child (week 36, no problems). My doctor recently told me that she recommends an induction around the 39th week because she thinks my baby will be on the large side (my first baby was 8 lbs 13 oz) and because I live and work on the other side of the bay from the hospital. I would be interested to hear from women who underwent an 'elective' induction, if that is what one would call this. I don't feel I have enough information to make a decision about this. Most of the information I've found on the internet is negative. Is this a procedure that some of you have had success with or is it better avoided? Tricia

One of my friends had a 13 pound baby (needed the vacuum, but otherwise fine). Was your last delivery difficult or do you fel okay with another big baby?

Also, inductions are more likely to be successful if your body is on its way to labor already -- there is something called a Bishops score that evaluates the cervix and how ''favorable'' it is for an induction, so you might what to ask your OB about it. The gist of what I have read is that cervical softeners may be a more gentle way to induce than pitocin, but others argue that pitocin can be adjusted more finely than cervical softeners, so you can discuss that with your OB. The other thing to watch out for is that there are apparently some hospitals misusing a drug called cytotec for cervical softening. This can lead to dangerous complications and the manufacturer specifically warns against its use in this setting. The appropriate drug is called cervidil. I think you are doing the right things researching and evaluating this. There are pros and cons, and you will find the path that is right for you! Julie M.

Labor inductions take some of the guesswork out of birth because you at least know when you're going to be in labor. But birth is not predictable. It is convenient for lots of folks (hospital, doctor, parents, family) when the birth is induced. But unless there is a health problem with the baby or mother it is not convenient for him/her. Babies were meant to come when they are ready an ex-doula

My first baby was induced at 41.5 weeks because I requested it. I just couldn't stand being pregnant any more. Induction was via an application of prostaglandin on the cervix which jump started contractions. This is the slowest and most ''natural'' way to be induced. It went pretty smoothly but very slowly. My labor was 36 hours. Baby was around 8 pounds, very healthy, and I did fine.

Second baby was a planned induction at 41 weeks. I did this based on the first experience, knowing that my mom would be able to be in the delivery room if I made an appointment. She isn't local so had to hop a plane to be there. Induction was done via an application of cytoteck at Alta Bates. It was a 2-hour labor and baby came out with cord wrapped around her neck. It was too fast and too intense. But everything turned out fine. I survived and baby was healthy. She was a few ounces shy of 8 pounds.

I don't know if the manner of induction made the difference or if the 2nd one was so fast because it was a 2nd baby but given my cervix's reluctance to open up, how large my babies were getting, and the opportunity to have Grandma in the delivery room, I would do induction again without hesitation Hope that helps.

My advice to you would be to try and avoid a pitocin drip as long as you can, because it really ups the intensity of labor which is a process that is intense enough on its own. Having said all that, at the end of the day it's all good, and two seconds after the baby's in your arms you'll forget all about the dumb labor anyway, as you know already. Best of luck, and congratulations in advance!!!! Abbi

But I never felt any side effects of the induction. Although, as you said, I know many women have had problems. But having major tears from a very large baby and painful labor doesn't sound much better. Good luck with whichever decision you make! Anon

Well, it really got things going. I thought I was hemorraging. My mucous plug came out in two hours. And my water broke eight hours later. But I wasn't having strong regular contractions, so I went to the hospital the next day and they started pitocin. I declined to see how dilated my cervix was because everyone said with such certainty that the balloon would fall out when I was four centimeters. The pitocin got me into what felt to me like active labor, but the balloon still didn't drop out. I was feeling really discouraged and I just had a hunch that the balloon wasn't helping me any more. So I asked them to take it out. It turned out that I was four centimeters dilated but that the balloon hadn't come out because it was stuck up around the baby's head. Happily, my baby was born vaginally. I have subsequently heard from a few other people that my experience with the Foley balloon was not unusual. One woman was five centimeters dilated and it didn't fall out. So if you choose to be induced and choose the Foley balloon, don't take the assertion that it will drop out when you're four centimeters dilated as gospel. Had I known that I would have made different decisions as my labor progressed Lisa

In my case, I induced my second child on his due date (at 40 weeks), because I was 4 cm dilated, 90% effaced or something like that and so very done with being pregnant. After the pitocin kicked in (that took about 1 hour), he came out in 45 minutes. It was quick and painful, but so worth it! I'd had a 13 hour labor with my first child, and this was really quite easy (though again: painful. No time for the planned epidural!).

That is my side. As for the baby, he was happy, healthy, and seemingly none the worse for wear for being coaxed out a bit early (he's now 3) Christine

I'm trying not to give you an opinion since everyone has a different set of health concerns, just letting you know the labor was intense, difficult, and left me with what seemed to be a case of post-traumatic stress (anxiety when I thought about the labor, probably not too uncommon, and gone now!). Good luck! Lived to tell

2nd time, I had an elective induction a week early, and an elective epidural early in the labor process. I had my husband and good friend in the hospital with me, where we had fragrant flowers, a picnic (well they got to eat it!), we listened to incredible music... I call it my spa birth. Even the nurses and docs were impressed and relaxed. I checked in early in the am, and had a beautiful 7lb 14oz baby boy around dinner time. And I worried about nothing because the childcare for my older daughter had been PLANNED, my mom was able to get there from the East Coast and have my daughter get used to her, it all went great. This was important to us because we have no family nearby.

The only ''Con,'' is the same con you have regardless of your birth plan: ''plans'' don't always work perfectly. The hospital was full the day I was scheduled, so I had to wait until the next morning. Not a big deal.

And what the docs will have to tell you is that there is still a chance that the induction might not work... I suppose you could still go through a long labor, need more interventions or have a c-section - really, like in any birth experience. But what are the odds?? anon

For example, this time when I deliver we will have a toddler and live 2 to 3 hours away from the closest family member. I would rather schedule the delivery and have everything arranged and calm for our daughter. Again, just a personal preference. I think some people are really focused on everything happening ''naturally'' but to me the point is having a positive delivery experience, having a healthy baby, and helping my toddler through a tramatic time. It was very positive for us. Good luck Dana

It is difficult to accurately estimate the size of your baby, and whether your delivery of a larger baby will be difficult. If you don't have gestational diabetes, the baby should be growing at a normal rate, and your body should be able to handle it. Also, second deliveries are SO much easier than the first, I'd let nature take it's course. Be patient, and you are probably looking at a fast labor. Try to induce, and you could drag it out for days, stuck in bed, with IVs and monitors, away from your family. Not pretty unless it's *really* medically necessary.

If you are worried about making it to the hospital on time, be sure to leave as soon as you recognize labor as ''real'', don't hang around at home, cause 2nd times do go pretty fast. If you are really worried, move to a hotel or friend's house near the hospital when your due date approaches.

Hope that helps you make a decision, good luck! Trish

I'm not arguing for or against, but I think it's a very serious decision to trigger labor before one's due date, especially since due dates themselves are so variable. You don't really know if your body or your baby are ready. So think hard about where your greatest anxiety lies - and get a second opinion if that will help you make your decision! There's certainly no harm in that.

In any case, good luck. I can certainly empathize with the doubt and fear you must be feeling. Your story reminds me, sadly, of how much stress, pressure, and anxiety I faced with my first daughter's birth (born nearly three weeks late, induced) -- just remember that labor and delivery are a TINY part of the overall process and experience of bringing a life into the world. Trust yourself in whatever choices you make. anon

Natural induction methods?

I am stressed out as I have passed my due-date and my doc is strongly suggesting induction.Has anyone tried any of the natural induction techniques to get labor going? Such as castor oil? Evening primrose oil? Accupressure? Cohosh/Herbs? If so, how long after your due date did you do them? What happened? Does anyone know of any reason NOT to use these methods, if your due date has passed? Desperately waiting for labor

Castor oil... I would try everything else before trying this. Yeah, it usually gets the job done, but then you are sick and miserable when your labor starts - not my idea of a good time.

Good luck, and congratulations!

I finally had an epidural 5 hours before she was born. The epidural relaxed me after the horror of contractions and she came out. My suggestion is get induced then immediately get an epidural and enjoy your new baby! anon

In my case, I was allowed to schedule induction up to 2 weeks after my due date. I selected a date slightly sooner and my water broke before the date arrived. Once that happened, I progressed slowly on my own and required the standard interventions I had hoped to avoid (namely Pitocin)... so that would be my only caution.

Good luck! anon

A friend recently passed her due date by about a week and her OB told her to take the castor oil straight. What I thought was weird was that she told her to do it in the evening. So my friend didn't get any sleep and had to wake up her husband at 1:00am to go to the hospital. Had I known she was going to do this, I would have suggested that she ask her OB if she can do it first thing in the morning.

I've also heard about some lovin' with your partner, long walks, going to the beach (something about the waves) and spicy foods.

Before trying any of this, please talk to your midwife or doctor about this

Good luck susan

Acupuncture to start labor

Can anyone suggest a specific acupuncturist to help start my labor? I'm 40 weeks pregnant and would like to avoid a hospital induction. I looked at the past advice and it was a little outdated and vague. Erica

Folk remedies for starting labor

Hey there, my due date is July 19 and I'm looking for ways to get things started naturally in case it comes and goes uneventfully. You know, folk remedies or stories passed among pregnant women about food or other activites to get things going. I already know about the Prego Pizza (yuck!!) and about having sex, but what else is out there? Thanks for the ideas! Jen

Natural and herbal and folk is all well and good, but it doesn't automatically mean safe. Please seek professional guidance. I know it is hard when the due date has come and gone (both my babies were late) or when you face an automatic induction via pitocin. Be well and don't underestimate the power of sex, sperm contains prostaglandin that can help thin the cervix. Sonya

Have you tried any natural induction methods?

Has anyone tried any of the natural induction techniques to get labor going? Such as castor oil? Evening primrose oil? Sex? Liquorice? If so, how long after your due date did you do them? What happened? Does anyone know of any reason NOT to use these methods, if your due date has passed?

The main negative thing I experienced was a kind of chaotic labor in the first few hours. I felt as though I had one set of contractions happening as I dilated, and another set as the castor oil worked its way through my digestive system, and sometimes they worked fine together and sometimes they were on different rhythms. All in all, labor went smoothly, judged against the large spectrum of possibility anyway--it stopped for a few hours at one point and then really got going after a 4 to 6 hour break. After that, I dilated for maybe 4 more hours at home, went to the hospital and had 4 to 5 hours of steadily intensifying contractions, an hour of really intense transition, an hour of pushing, and out he came. Felt like a long time to me, but it was considered a short labor, and by the end, the castor oil was long gone and out of my mind. good luck!

First is sex- what got baby in there is what can get them out... there is prostaglandins in a man's semen and if you can get comfy enough during the act to actually orgasm, 'the sperm treatment' as I liked to call it will hopefully stimulate your cervix while your big 'O' will get the uterus to contract. If your baby is ready and your body is ready to labor, it will hopefully start mild contractions for you. another thing is nipple stimulation. roll nipples for 2 min, rest for 3 then roll for 2 rest for 3min, for a total of 20 min. Then wait and see what happens. Again, it will only work if your body is ready to labor.

Castor oil is another option, but trust me it is totally disgusting and didn't do a darn thing for me. The idea behind drinking it is that it will stimulate your bowels (diarhea) and maybe by doing that it will stimulate your uterus to contract. You can also take a little bit of the oil and rub on your stomach which will absorb through the skin, but dont do both at the same time becasue you can overstimulate and you DONT WANT THAT.

So please please discuss this with your doc before trying and feel free to contact me if you want some info about medical induction risks etc. I feel strongly against induction unless there is good reason and there are a lot of reasons why it could be bad for you or end up with a c-section.

Shaana Keller, Doula Vallejo, CA

I'm 40 weeks - doctor wants to induce

I'll be 40 weeks pregnant tomorrow, and at my appt today my dr said I am still only dilated 1 cm and started talking about scheduling an induced labor sometime in the next 2 weeks. Has anyone had induction? I've heard it's incredibly painful, plus I'm disappointed about the idea of not being able to labor at home at all. For folks who were induced - were you forced to lay in bed the whole time for the fetal monitoring, or could you move around? Did you use any pain relief like an epidural? How long was your labor? Why did your dr advise you to induce? We have another appt on Monday, where they will do some tests to see how the baby is doing, but of course these are all questions I thought of AFTER I left my dr's office today (I was pretty shaken up with the idea of having to be induced).

Any info that could possibly ease my mind or at least give me a better idea of what might happen would be greatly appreciated. I go to Dr Foley at Berkeley Orinda Women's Health, and I'm having my baby at Alta Bates.
First Time Mommy - Freaking Out

First off, when you're induced, you know for sure that won't be leaving the hospital without a baby (many of my friends went in only to be told to return when they were more dilated, a very frustrating experience). With a scheduled birth, you also have a last bit of time to enjoy your pre-child lives a bit, go out to a last dinner, make sure the refrigerator is stocked and the fish are fed and so on. You can also have nice breakfast before you go in, which is important since you might not eat for awhile once you get started laboring. We found it also convenient for our friends and families who were planning on helping us out afterwards. They knew when to be available.

Depending on your specific situation, there shouldn't be any reason you won't have a ''normal'' labor, except it will be entirely in the hospital and in an outfit in which you have no say. Once you are induced, which primarily involves a pitocin IV and maybe breaking your water, you can walk around, take a shower, do whatever it is you need to do (as long as you don't mind doing it with a your butt hanging out of a hospital gown and a bunch of IVs and monitors hooked to you). You might have the baby relatively quickly, or it may take a while; it depends on the individual. My induced labor took about 8 hours, I think probably just a bit less than what it would have taken had it come naturally.

As far as the pain itself, either way you are going to have contractions. Like you, I was fearful of the pain, but I actually found my second delivery, a natural one, far more painful because it happened so quickly (3 hours from contraction one to daughter) and with such intensity.

I am a real weenie when it comes to pain and had no desire whatsoever to experience a lot of it. I figured I'd have enough pain healing after the child was born. The nice thing about being in the hospital is that you have a more say about how you handle your pain. If you aren't ready for the epidural but you want some help, there are medications to take the edge off. While I held out as long as I could, I finally took the nurse up on the fentanyl (sp?), which helped me a lot (and our Apgar scores were all 10s from the beginning). Once you get the epidural, however, you'll need to lie down.

All this said, whether your child decides to appear on his/her own or with help, I think you will find that your labor and birth is special, that in the end, it doesn't really matter where or how it takes place as long as the child arrives safely. I wish you a healthy birth and a lovely lifetime with your new bundle of joy. I'm sure everything will turn out just fine.

Induced and Happy

The next time around, I had to be induced by Pitocin due to liver problems (it basically stopped working). It was fine (as in: I walked around, but hooked up to many monitors, and didn't really hurt) until the Dr. broke my water (because the Pitocin really wasn't doing anything on its own), then all hell broke loose. They just couldn't drop the Pitocin dose fast enough for me, and I ended up getting a shot of drug to help (managed to avoid the epidural thing, but not sure I would in retrospect - it was so much worse than the first time).

Your questions: while the contractions were mild, I could move around (but still hooked up), but once they got more intense, they wanted me in the room and lying down. First labor was 8 hours, second one was 4 hours of Pitocin, then 2 hours of intense pain after they broke my water (really only 2 hours of labor).

I'd be happy to talk with you further if you have any questions. Good luck!

kelly

My experience was quick - my baby was born 4 hours later with no need for IV medication or epidural. I was in bed most of the time, but this was my own choice - the contractions were very strong (because I was dilating so quickly). Quicker labors run in my family - my mom was induced with me (first child) with Pitocin and I was out in 8 hours.

In preparation for the induction I had asked some questions. At Alta Bates, you are able to get up out of bed even when being induced with Pitocin (if you start with the Cervidil, you do have to stay in bed for about 2 hours). But, do have to come back periodically for them to monitor the baby. People do say that Pitocin makes the contractions harder, but let's face it, labor is no breeze either way. An epidural is not necessary for an induced labor, plenty of women have delivered without pain medication despite the induction.

My main advice is not to let the induction scare you. Be your own advocate to otherwise have your labor the way you would like. If walking around and avoiding pain medication are your plan, these are still possible. And don't feel bad if you decide to use pain medication - most women these days do, even despite the resurgence of wanting a 'natural labor'. Best of luck and just focus on the most important outcome - a happy, healthy baby.

Shelly

(1) With my first child, after I got past 40 weeks, I was freaked about complications that result from later term babies and really sick of being pregnant (back pain, peeing every 10 minutes, etc.) so I asked my doctor if I was required to go a full 2 weeks post-due date before induction. He said it was my choice. I requested to be induced at 41 weeks. They applied prostaglandin to my cervix and that jump started contractions. It was a 26-hour labor and I was obliged to wear a fetal monitor because I said yes to any and all drugs offered (narcotics and epidural). So, as far as I know, you can refuse a fetal monitor if you don't want drugs.

(2) With baby #2, they induced at 41 weeks by applying cytotec to my cervix. I had a 2 hours labor because it was a second baby, because cytotec is very powerful, and because I labored on a rubber ball like the ones at the gym instead of in a hospital bed (so was working with gravity). There were no drugs with that labor (too short) but they asked me to wear a fetal monitor and I reluctantly agreed. Near the end, the fetal monitor indicated that the baby's heart rate was slowing down with every contraction. Sure enough, when my little one came out, she had a cord wrapped around her neck twice. The doctor snipped the cord immediately.

So fetal monitors are really uncomfortable but they do serve a useful purpose to alert doctors when something is wrong.

Hope that helps. -Anon

I would say that although I didn't experience the labor in the comfort of my own home, ultimately all you really want is a healthy baby, and when you are in the middle of that process, it is your focus. My friend, a nurse practioner, told me that to have the best birth experience, just roll with the punches and don't have any preconceived ideas about how it should be. That was the best advice I got. And now I have a perfect, beautiful and healthy 1 year old baby. The nurses at Alta Bates are great, by the way, and they did absolutely everything to make it as positive an experience as they could. My only other advice, if you can afford a private room (about $300 bucks a night), it is worth it. Your husband can stay in the room with you and you have time to adjust.

Good luck! anonymous

However I still had some sympstoms and monthly then bimonthly and once in the hospital I had to be monitered on a fetal moniter. It was all very upsetting but I just kept on crocheting her baby blanket and did get up for a few hours a day and do something nice for myself to keep the chin up. I was told I would be induced if I was even a day late due to all this! Well, I just started talking to my baby, even almost yelling! I demanded that she come out without it, and she began her labor on her due date! Great I thought. It turns out my labor lasted a total of three days and nights as it kept starting then stopping. Finally my water broke and after 9 hours they put me on the drip patocin (sp?) with my knowledge. They did not however tell me that they kept turning up the amount I was receiving and my last three hours of labor were really painful. I also had back labor and was unable to turn onto my front or squat as the moniter went off! I must say all this soured me for another go. When she was born, had to have a epidural as well, heart rate went down, I knew it was because she was just stresed out from the fast labor but was so in my pain and mind I couldn't speak so they did it, she was a 9 and a 9 an the apgar test/score. So the drugs did not hurt her at all. Nor did they hurt me except for during labor. But I must also say that the baby is now 13 and I wouldn't trade her for the world!!!! I would do it all over again in a heartbeat but with a few different agenda's. One, have an advocate! My husband didn't know it was wrong or that this was why my labor was so intense. He should have, arm your husband with research in advance. Additionally, don't let them keep turning it up unless they can convince you and your husband who will be the rational one there that it is medically necessary and why. And I would be prepared better. I would have more comforts and demand they turn the noise of the moniter off. I would understand that I needed more drugs. And I would prepare myself with the knowledge that I wouldn't be able to take care of the new little baby that first 12 hours so well so I would have an advocate who did that for me. If the husband is burnt out, have your family or best friend sit in your room with the baby and you. This is of course if you don't want the baby to go to the nursery. This probably must be worked out in advance in writing to the hospital and doctors. They are very security tight with newborns, thank god. Most of all, try this: Eat three cans of spinach. This is a natural stimulater of the fake potacin (sp?). Or mustard greens or chinese greens. I did the day I thought I was in labor and it kick started it right up, wish I would have kept on eating it. Doctors these days find induced and ceasaran labor more convient. However, there is a flip side. You don't want any medical complications and the I believe the water starts to dry up a bit after 2 weeks late. You could have daily ultrasounds or something to see if baby and mommy are ok and until there is signs that something is awry refuse? It is a sticky point and a medical one. I urge you to research away on google the next few nights.

I am NOT A DOCTOR OR NURSE. I am giving you my advice from my experience and research only.

Lucinda

I would have prefered not to have been induced, but it wasn't awful. It's important to remember that the most important outcome is a healthy baby. Frances

Good luck! Karin

Another thing to keep in mind is that vaginal exams before labor really don't tell you much of anything. They don't tell you if you're going to go into labor tomorrow, the next day, or the next week. The worst thing they do is increase your risk of infection becuase with each vaginal exam you are introducing new bacteria into your vagina. Infections and bacteria can weaken the amniotic sac and can cause an early rupture of the bag.

A great book to read is Henci Goer's _The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth_. It gives research backing up or refuting certain claims by doctors.

At this point the best thing to do is to just allow your body and your baby to follow its course. Discuss with your doctor what your options are. What happens if you do not go into labor by 41 weeks? By 42 weeks? No doubt, pitocin induction is hard. ''Natural'' labor is hard, too, by the way! However, you're still only 40 weeks! Most first-timers go overdue. There are lots of other things you can do to spend the next few weeks: sex, acupuncture, sex, acupressure, walking, sex, massage, walking, chiropractic, sex, herbs, etc. As a last resort you can take castor oil but that is DEFINITELY last resort LOL.

Best of luck to you! Hang in there, you will not be pregnant forever!

Laurel

another induced mom

Swimming against the tide in Berkeley

At Alta Bates I checked in at 8:00, had my water broken, and walked the halls. I was still only 3 centimeters. At noon I was given potosin (sorry - can't spell) and sent to walk the halls some more. At three o'clock I was still only 3 centimeters, asked for an epidural, and at four the nurse checked the fetal monitor and saw the babies head...I gave birth after only 5 minutes of pushing.

The idea of hanging around the hospital, waiting to have a baby, seemed crazy to me. I had thought I'd rather be at home, let things happen naturally, and head to the hospital once my contractions were close. But my husband and I actually enjoyed having a day to ourselves to mentally prepare for how our life was about to change (and it was nice to have a break from the toddler- walking the halls was easier than chasing her around!).

If I decide to have a third child, and if my body is ''ripe'' early again, I will strongly consider being induced. Most people I've talked to had a very positive, fairly painless experience. I only know of one friend who was induced at 42 weeks and found it painful. With her second pregnancy she waited to go naturally and still had a very long and difficult time. Maybe it just depends on your body. Who knows?

I know quite a few people who think the world of Dr. Foley. I hope my rambling helps- best of luck-

If you DO have to be induced, it's really important to be clear about your desires at the outset. Tell the nurse your desire to try and deliver without pain meds and ask them to try using the lowest amount of pitocin and see what happens. This worked well for me. Though the contractions were really strong--too strong to walk around--my labor went fast enough that I made it without an epidural. (It was intense, though, just ask my husband.) Six hours later out popped my son and it was all worth it.

One thing my family doc recommended to start labor was accupuncture. You might want to check that out to get things going naturally. Good luck! anon

What I try to take away from this less than desirable experience was that at least I got to experience labor at all. And I really value knowing what contractions feel like, honestly, glad to not have had an emergency csection. I did not have any pain medication for the labor part, but of course an epidural for the operation (a different topic, the AB docs were absolutely great). Anyway, here's what HELPED me: my husband being with me, of course, as well as our wonderful doula who massaged me and supported me the entire time, music (bring lots of extra batteries since you can't plug into the wall outlet), and inspiring pictures tacked up right where I could see them -- all so comforting to have in the face of all the technology at the hospital. I also loved not knowing the baby's gender until they flew her by me after the section; in a strange way it was one of the few things I had control over...the surprise. I snuck some food at first since it was so many days (and they won't let you eat in the hospital obviously), but by the third day didn't want to eat, though I also took some gatorade to keep energy up. Some advice: I don't know if they are still doing this, but if they ask you every hour to rate your pain on a scale of one to ten, just refuse to do it (unless you want to of course). This questioning was apparently a result of some lawsuit, but I found it impossible to answer, and irritating besides, since I had not yet felt the worst pain I would feel and had no way to create the 10 on the scale. So just say no, if necessary. Similarly, during recovery, don't let people in your room unless they absolutely have to be there. I could not get any sleep during the three days I ''recovered''; after half-hourly assaults, we hung a sign on the door and STILL were bothered by people just walking in (not always nurses, people for the baby pictures and stuff). Could have done without that part, especially at $250/night.

To sum up, It may sound trite, but at some point I did have to give away my hopes for natural labor, vaginal birth etc. and give in to the process. This was certainly helped by how well the baby did and turned out to be. I'm sure you'll be fine, don't worry. Think about how great it's going to be when you get to hold that baby in your arms and finally see its face!! So soon now! Think about the little tiny feet, the big grey newborn eyes, that fabulous smell they have. The wonderful crazy stuff is just about to start...Congrats and good luck.

Grateful mama

I did use a small amount of pain relieving drugs, and ended up have an epidural – a blessed relief! Although after that you do have to lie down. My baby was born pretty quickly after the epidural – and I could push just fine even though I had heard it was sometimes harder to push after the epidural.

I think the reason that inductions are thought of as unpleasant is that, from the very beginning, the medication is adjusted so you have your contractions 2 minutes or so apart (rather than starting at 8-10 minutes apart and slowly building up). Even for a fairly short labor (mine was about 9 hours), that gets exhausting. But I got through it, and in retrospect I don’t think it was that big a deal. I have heard more frightening tales from women who had entirely natural labors – and of course women with natural labors who had an easier time, too. I think it's a case of what happens, happens.

Karen

Relax! Being induced isn't the end of the world! I was induced (my water broke at 41 weeks and then nothing, no contractions) and happened to have a bad reaction to the Pitocin and a sadistic nurse who didn't reduce the amount in the drip (I didn't know I could ask her to - keep this in mind just in case!).

The problem with the Pitocin was that I went from no labor to active labor in about 1/2 an hour. I'd sent my husband home since it looked like a long road ahead and I wanted him to get sleep, then after he left the nurse cranked up the dosage b/c I wasn't progressing fast enough for her and BOOM! Hard contractions every 2 minutes, lasting a minute each. Yuck. It's not that it's that different from 'normal' labor, it's just that I didn't get to ease into it gradually. You're limited by the IV (the fetal monitor was just an external belt) but you can move from side to side and get up to visit the bathroom, probably walk around (although I wasn't up for it)but I don't think you could shower or do a water-birth. I was at Alta Bates, btw.

Needless to say, I requested an epidural as soon as I thought of it and the misery was gone within seconds. It wasn't the delivery I had envisioned, but I also didn't buy into all the epidural-is-for-wimps-and-bad-moms stuff they were preaching in the childbirth classes either. Also, the epidural really sped up the dilating process since my body wasn't wasting energy fighting against the pain. It had taken 10 hours to get to 3cm, and then took 9 hours more(pain free!)to get from 3 to 10 cm. During this time I was able to have lots of family in the room with me, laughing, joking, telling stories, etc. and it is now one of my happiest memories.

By the way, I have a friend who opted to be induced for her second child (same reasons as you) and was FINE, no bad reaction, easy short birth. It just depends on your individual reaction to the drug. I'm due in 4 weeks and would have no qualms about being induced again since I know the epidural is there if things get unbearable.

Good luck, you can do it! -Ready to do it again

There is a good book, Pregnancy Childbirth and the Newborn The Complete Guide by Simkin, Whalley, Keppler that has suggestions and natural ways to help induce labor..non-medical and non- drug..such as walking, acupressure, orgasm, and other ideas. It is best to read it because there too many details to list here. All the best. Ann

Now for the good news. Despite a remarkably unromantic arrival at the hospital, much of my labor progressed the way I had hoped. Yes, the Pitocin was painful. But once it kicked in, it really did the job. My baby was delivered 4.5 hours after they started the Pitocin drip. As a matter of fact, I went from 5 to 10 cm. in 20 minutes! So despite being strapped down and wiggling around on the table I was able to have a natural childbirth -- no epidural or other painkillers. Not being able to walk around is the worst part of it. A useful trick is to tell the nurse that you need to use the restroom. Then he/she will unstrap you and hopefully the vertical time will speed things up.

Good luck & try not to let the induction get you down. Remember that in the end, you will have a beautiful baby to cherish! anon

I was very firm with my doctor that I wanted to use as little medication as possible, as the labor contractions are stronger are stronger when you have to take pitosin (sp?) It was actually not very painful at all. Once they had me on the pit, my contractions came along slowly and not too painfully, When I was at 5cm the DR broke my water, and about 102 minutes later, my son was born (under 15 minutes of strenuous pushing) I took no pain medication and just focused on breathing.. Of course, I'm sure every woman has a different experience. I'm sure it is hard to predict how your body will react to the drugs used.

Induction isn't something I planned on. I was disappointed that I had to walk into Alta-Bates with my pillow and suitcase, but at least it was organized. My husband and I knew that when we left the house, we'd be coming back with our little boy. I wish you the best. Your induction experience may run smoothly. anon

By the way, I just had my second baby on Monday and my experience was totally different: I was only one cm dilated the day before my due date, but I did go into labor on my own the day after my due date and went in to the hospital at midnight. After laboring all night (with contractions very strong, but not as close together as when I was induced) I did get an epidural and my baby was born about 3 hours later.

Having had two very different kinds of experience I have to say that there are pros and cons to each. If I were you, I would schedule the induction for 2 weeks after the due date and hope I went into labor on my own before that. Yes, induced labor is painful, but so is ''regular'' labor. I'm happy I was able to do it without an epidural the first time, but I was very happy to be able to have an epidural the second time. Both times I had about 40-45 minutes of pushing. Both births were at Summit.

Good luck! I'm sure your experience will be great however it works out. There are always things that we wish were a little different, but as long as baby and mommy are healthy those things don 't matter. All the best! Frances

The hospital's policy of inducing labor at 41 weeks

I am giving birth next month at CPMC (California Pacific Medical Center in SF) and just heard that they have a policy of inducing labor at 41 weeks, which apparently my doctor follows. We got this news from the nurse practitioner and haven't actually had a chance to talk to the OB directly about it yet. Everything I have read suggests labor is usually induced at (or around) 42 weeks. I generally feel confident that CPMC is a good place to be having a baby and wonder if there is some new information that I don't know about (the nurse practitioner said something about placental degeneration). I can't help but wonder if it's just some kind of "malpractice insurance" for them. In general, when one declines recommended treatment, does one sign something relieving them (the hospital/OB) of responsibility? We are starting to think about our "birth plan" and I wonder what happens if we object to their protocol. Patty

http://www.mercola.com/2001/feb/4/cytotec_pregnancy.htm

http://www.mercola.com/2001/mar/3/pitocin.htm

http://www.childbirth.org/articles/pit.html

When I had my baby, my doctor was trying to convince me to schedule a c-section becuase of some issues that I have... I did my homework, I knew that it wasn't necessary. She went as far as to yell and scream at me. Then told me that I was going to kill my baby. I let them iduce to back them off. The induction failed, she just wasn't ready... I ended up with a c-section. They were trying to convince me that my baby was too big... My huge 8 pounder didn't seem too big ;-)

Bottom line- listen to you gut... You could just always avoid your doctor for a week. REmember- they need to look proactive, just in case. Plus, and induction, or c-section isn't a bad thing for them either. Then again, it's not their middle being cut open! Rae

My baby was 6 lbs 10 oz and I don't believe for a second that I needed to be induced. I wasn't ready and I don't think my daughter was either. Listen to your own instinct, get a second opinion and watch out for people scheduling your birth around their needs! Suzy

Chinese Medicine can be used to induce labor, although acupuncturists are often at this point not allowed in hospitals here. Feel free to contact me if you are interested in this possibility, though. Rhoda

Instead, she did a sonogram and noted that there was tons of amniotic fluid, which apparently indicated a healthy environment. (She may have used other indicators as well.) Then she had me make another appointment for 42 weeks. I had my baby (without induction) the next week - two days shy of exactly 42 weeks. He was born perfectly healthy, and my doula showed me the umbilical cord - a beautiful spiral of vibrant red and blue - and said it was one of the healthiest she'd ever seen. So, even at almost 42 weeks, my placenta was thriving. (I should also note that my due date was correct, as I knew the date of conception.)

This is not to say that pregnancy should never be induced, but instead that just because you've gone past the 40 week mark does not mean that the environment in the womb is unhealthy for the baby. Ask your doctors if they can use indicators other than your due date to determine whether induction is necessary. anonymous

My doctor wanted me to induce my baby, but I said no because he seemed very healthy according to those tests I mentioned. It was good to have those information from tests to back up myself.

Good luck! Mika

With my first pregnancy, I went in for my 41 week check-up and fully expected to be told I had to wait another week before they would induce. I was elated when the doctor told me they would give it a try if I requested it. They used 2 applications of prostiglandin on my cervix and that jump started contractions. It was a very gentle and slow build up (unlike some of the horror stories I had heard of Pitocin IV drip induction) and after 26 hours, a healthy 8 lb. baby.

With my second pregnancy, I made an appt. to be induced at 41 weeks and asked my mother to take some time off work and fly up so she could be with me in the delivery room.

With that labor, they used cytotec to induce. I know this is controversial because some women have suffered ill effects and my labor was very fast (2 hours) but on the plus side, there were no drugs involved (unlike the first time) and I was only at the hospital for 24 hours. I was grateful to get home to my son (and introduce him to his baby sister) plus my mother saw her granddaughter come into the world. Both induction experiences were very positive for me. --Sharon