Inductions: An Introduction
- ellemasseybam
- Dec 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Tis the season!
Induction rates increase over Christmas, because - Christmas. (not because they're medically needed more, but because of the special occasion that is Christmas, and prioritising this day over your baby and your body).
So if you’re pregnant and due this month, make sure you’re informed so you can make a decision that’s right for you! Here's an introduction to inductions: what they are, the risks, and questions you should be asking when (sadly not if - some maternity services will offer you an induction BEFORE you reach your due date... insane!!!!) you are offered one. Remember, it is always just that: an offer. You do not have to do anything you don't want to.
First things first - what’s an induction? Induction of labour means starting your labour artificially. It’s a medical procedure.
Most commonly offered if:
you’re overdue
estimated big baby
health concerns for you or baby
Also offered if:
waters have broken
you’re over 40
expecting multiples
conceived by IVF
because it's hospital policy
Induction is not just one thing.
There are different types of induction: membrane sweep, hormone drip, inserting devices, and breaking your waters. So if one is offered to you, make sure you know exactly what type of induction they mean - you’re not giving informed consent otherwise!
“We’ll book you in for an induction” is pretty meaningless! What type? When? How?! Why!!
Questions to ask if offered induction:
what are the benefits? (of doing it and not doing it)
what are the risks? (of doing it and not doing it)
what evidence do you have to support this?
how? when? what will happen?
why is this being recommended now?
is this what is best for me and my baby?
what are my other options?
There are benefits and risks of having an induction. I feel it’s important to share the risks here because they’re often downplayed and sometimes not even shared at all.
Some risks to be aware of:
more painful labour
more likely to have a caesarean
more likely to have an instrumental birth
increased risk of fetal distress
increased risk of tearing
might not work! can take many attempts
they can be uncomfortable and may cause you some bleeding.
Also important to note that your birth experience will be different if you have an induction. You’ll need to be monitored more - which can mean less movement and no/restricted access to water - which can make labour more painful and longer (and may mean you want stronger pain relief). You may need more vaginal examinations, which increases chance of infection. And you’ll probably have to stay in hospital for longer.
ALSO being told you need an induction because you’re overdue… no.
That alone is not a reason. Due dates are bullshit! There is so much more to say. It’s a big ol’ conversation! But it isn't normal to end pregnancies before your baby and body are ready. If there is a medical reason, then of course, an induction may well be the best option for you (it is never the only option though). But we have been birthing babies are thousands and thousands of years. Before medicine, before hospitals, before scans, before due dates. Induction for a non medical reason takes away the trust we have in ourselves and our bodies and our babies. It ignores our inner wisdom and magic and hands it over to something external. I cover all of this in my Hypnobirthing Course if you want to know more about it, and share so many helpful resources, research, blog posts, evidence, etc etc!
Induction is ALWAYS your decision. But I know it might not always feel like that. You can say no, you can change your mind, and of course you can say yes! Just make sure you’re informed and making a decision that is best for you and your baby.
Share this with your pregnant pals to ensure they're informed with their birth options.
Elle x
Comments