Inductions and Due Dates

Everyday across the country, women are induced prior to their due dates.  Some are for medical reasons such as gestational diabetes, some are out of convenience.   As inductions across America continue to rise, many find themselves being faced with this decision, sometimes without knowing why.

As a mom, I can remember the first time I was advised to have an induction nearly twenty years ago.   My first son was a “fast birth” according to doctors at a little more than five hours.  Therefore, I was advised by my doctors for my second child, to induce to make things easier.   My daughter, who has always been on her own schedule, decided to come the day before the induction and was born about eighty minutes after my water broke.  

This only encouraged my doctos to explain why inductions were more important for this mama to have inductions two weeks before my due dates with both my third and fourth children.   At the time, I didn’t know enough to question why or do my own research in a time before the internet had all the answers.   I did’t understand that inductions come with risks and often further interventions. 

Fortunately, I didnt have to have numerous interventions, but that is not the case for all.   As a doula and working with many families over the years, I have learned so much more about inductions and the evidence behind it. 

I encourage all soon to be parents to investigate as ask all the “whys” when it comes to have an induction or any type of intervention for that matter.   

There is a great article by Evidenced Based Birth that explains that benefits and the risks that come from inducing childbirth.   Please take the time to read this article as you make decisions for your family.

Looking for a doula?

A doula commonly makes up a part of your birth team and works together with you to give you the birth experience that you want. Doula can be great about answering questions in regards to inductions, due dates and so much more.  Tamara Kankowski is a certified birth doula serving families across Cincinnati and Dayton area as well as Northern Kentucky and would be happy to talk with you at that same time.