Induced labour
July 23, 2009
When it comes to labour and giving birth, what every mother wishes for is a natural straightforward labour that is accompanied by minimum intervention. However, in some cases the only advisable thing to do is induction.
Reasons for induction
There are various reasons that make induction necessary. Some, in fact the commonest are listed below.
Ten days after your due date, there is no doubt that the placenta is failing and the life of both mother and baby is at risk. Induction is necessary in cases of pre-eclampsia. Another reason is when there is evidence that the baby is not growing properly.
There are cases where the water breaks without any contractions even after 24 hours.
In cases of placental abruption and also where the mother tested positive for diabetes with a large baby, induction is unavoidable.
Should it become necessary that you are induced, the obstetrician should explain to you in clear terms, why and how the induction will be done. This will make you take an informed decision.
Methods of induction
There are various methods of induction. Some of these are:
The cervix could be softened by inserting gel into the vagina. The second method is the breaking of the water with a long hook-like instrument. Even though this sounds scary, you will not be aware of the process.
Another method is the intra-venous infusion of a syntocinon, a chemical similar to oxytocin. This chemical is produced by the body when spontaneous labor starts. Those who have ever had a caesarean section are usually not given syntocinon because it puts extra weight on the womb.
What happens during induction
Induced labour may result in two extremes: it is either too long or very rapid with strong contractions. In both cases, it is difficult to bear. There are exceptions to this though.
The baby may be stressed during induced labour, therefore assisted delivery is common. When syntocinon is used, there is the need for constant monitoring. Induction does not succeed all the time.
In cases where there is slow spontaneous labour, the midwife may ask if you want the waters broken or prefer syntocinon. The choice depends on you.
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