Hey mama! I see you over there. You're reading this because your doctor or midwife has just told you that you need to be induced. You may be wondering what to expect, what the risks and benefits are, how you're going to prepare for it!
Well I'm here to help! I want to give you 3 things to do when you're thinking about an induction. And no... I'm not here to replace your medical advice. These are practical ways of making sure that this decision is what is best for you and your baby!
1. ASK WHY
Just ask questions. Ask a million if you have to. This is your decision to make but if you are unsure of the reasons behind the induction you'll never be able to be confident in your choice. By asking "why" you are choosing to be responsible for this decision. You are preparing to inform yourself of the benefits and risks of this procedure. You are using your provider as a resource of information. When you know the "why" behind the decision you have a starting place to research!
Some common reasons for induction (not saying necessary reasons):
Post-term pregnancy (42 weeks)
Premature rupture of membranes
Chorioamnionitis
Fetal growth restriction (IUGR)
Oligohydramnios (too much amniotic fluid)
Gestational diabetes
High blood pressure disorders of pregnancy/Preeclampsia
Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP)
Really get to know the reason for your induction!
2. WRITE OUT A BENEFITS AND RISKS LIST
I'm a huge proponent for taking thoughts out of your brain and putting them onto paper. I have experienced the power of decluttering my mind in that way and I have seen other women experience clear decision making by doing this exercise!
Use your BRAIN!
B- Benefits (What are they?)
R- Risks (What are they?)
A- Alternatives (What are they?)
I-Intuition (What is it saying?)
N- Nothing (What if I do nothing?)
Ok so now that we have a frame work let's talk about the best way go do this. I have a worksheet for you that will help you take these thoughts and put them on paper. You can also take this to your doctors appointment to take notes.
I want you to put the Decision you have to make on top. For example, "Induction at 39 weeks" Below it is the reason that your doctor gave you.. or your "why". For example, "Baby is measuring big"
Now this is where your work comes in! Research time! Don't get overwhelmed.. you can find the risks and benefits by talking to your medical provider, talking to other moms that have had to make this decision, a simple Google search.
Write down all of the Benefits in the first column and in the second you will write the Risks. This will give you a visual and help you see if the benefits of this decision out weight the risks.
Here is an example:
This tool can be used in every decision you need to make during pregnancy. Are you trying to decided if you will VBAC, have an epidural, deliver breech vaginally, have a homebirth, have your mother-in-law in the delivery room?
You can get this free worksheet by going to bit.ly/riskvsbenefit and putting in your name and email. When you do you will get the download straight to your computer or phone!
Remember... every decision is yours to make!
3. MAKE YOUR DECISION
Remember, you are strong and able to make the final decisions for your health and your babies health. Being an empowered decision maker is a skill that has to be developed. It takes time and research but it’s worth it! I believe in you mama!
If you would like help walking through a decision so you can confidently navigate your way from pregnancy to postpartum give the Birth Bliss Beyond team a call! We can set up a free consult with you so you can see if we are the right team for you! www.birthblissbeyond.com/contact
If you’re looking for a tribe for input and support join us over at The Empowered Mama’s Birth Tribe! We are an active group that is growing daily! Go to www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredmamastribe to find your tribe now!
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