Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: Induction can come as a surprise, but it doesn’t have to be a negative experience. It can actually be quite healthy and positive.
Courtney Collen (host): Welcome to “Her Kind of Healthy,” a podcast by Sanford Health. I’m your host, Courtney Collen, here to discuss topics from pregnancy to self-care. Today, we’ll chat about labor induction and answer some common questions.
Dr. Krebsbach and Paige Neameyer: Thanks for having us!
Courtney Collen: Dr. Krebsbach, what does it mean to induce labor, and why would a woman need or choose this option?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: Inducing labor means starting contractions before the body begins labor on its own. There are several reasons to induce, mainly medical ones. For example, if a mother has health issues like high blood pressure or if there are concerns for the baby, induction might be necessary. Sometimes, it’s elective; the mother and doctor choose to induce for various reasons, even when both mom and baby are healthy.
Courtney Collen: How do you actually induce labor?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: Induction can take time and often starts with a process called cervical ripening. If the cervix isn’t ready, we may use medications through an IV or break the water bag to help contractions start.
Courtney Collen: Paige, what if someone wants an elective induction?
Paige Neameyer: We have an elective induction list for patients who want to be induced but don’t need it for medical reasons. They must meet specific criteria, including being at least 39 weeks and having a “Bishop score” that shows their cervix is ready. However, there’s no guarantee on the exact date for induction.
Courtney Collen: Every woman’s journey is unique. What should women know about the induction process?
Paige Neameyer: It’s important to remember that each experience can differ. While some women have very quick inductions, others may take longer, especially if their cervix isn’t ready. Induction can sometimes feel more intense because labor starts suddenly instead of gradually building up.
Courtney Collen: Dr. Krebsbach, are there any risks involved with induction?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: Yes, like any medical procedure, there can be risks. Induction can lead to rapid contractions, which may not be tolerated well by either mom or baby. In rare cases, it can result in complications that might require more monitoring or a cesarean section. But the goal of induction is always a safe vaginal delivery.
Courtney Collen: What are the benefits of induction?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: Induction can be beneficial if there are safety concerns for the mother or baby. For example, if there’s a risk of infection after the water has broken or worsening maternal health conditions, timely induction can prevent complications. Additionally, for some women with specific life circumstances, scheduling an induction can provide peace of mind.
Courtney Collen: Are more women asking for epidurals during induced labor?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: It’s not that women request them more often, but the nature of induced labor can make contractions feel more intense. Some women might opt for an epidural sooner because of this abrupt onset.
Paige Neameyer: Many women still choose to go for an unmedicated birth during induction. It’s all about personal pain tolerance and preparation.
Courtney Collen: Can induction help reduce the chance of a cesarean birth?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: Yes, research like the Arrive Trial found that women induced at 39 weeks had a lower chance of needing a cesarean compared to those who waited for natural labor. However, each case is different, and individual circumstances matter.
Courtney Collen: What about natural methods for inducing labor like eating dates or doing other things? Do they actually work?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: There’s no proven method that works for everyone. Some natural approaches may stimulate labor, but they aren’t guarantees. For example, nipple stimulation and intercourse might help, but there’s no strong evidence supporting other common methods.
Courtney Collen: Is there a safe timeframe for experimenting with these methods?
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: We consider a pregnancy at term starting at 37 weeks. It’s safer to try any natural methods then, but it’s important to ensure your water hasn’t broken. Always consult your doctor before trying anything.
Courtney Collen: Paige, any tips for women who want a natural birth and want to avoid induction?
Paige Neameyer: If you’re aiming for an unmedicated birth, you can labor at home as long as it feels safe and your contractions aren’t too close together. Staying informed and communicating openly with your care team can help, too.
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach: It’s essential for women to remember that an induction isn’t a failure. Sometimes, medical circumstances arise that necessitate an induction, and our priority is always a healthy mother and baby. We adhere closely to guidelines to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.
Courtney Collen: Thank you both for your insights. Your expertise is invaluable to expectant moms navigating this journey. If you’re preparing for labor, be sure to communicate openly with your care team.
Dr. Lacey Krebsbach & Paige Neameyer: Thank you for having us!
Courtney Collen: I hope you found this conversation helpful. This has been another episode of “Her Kind of Healthy” by Sanford Health. I’m Courtney Collen; thanks for tuning in.
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