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Childbirth/cervix ripening

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Expert: - 8/28/2008


Question
I am 40 weeks and have a scheduled induction at 41 weeks because my cervix on my due date was sytill posterior. If my cervix was to come down and dialate is this something that could happen in a day or perhaps before my scheduled induction in 6 days? because i am concerned about the drugs used to ripen the cervix and Id like to know what are my chances of going into labor.

Answer
Kristie,

Yes, it's completely possible that labor could begin before then.  Also, since you don't seem to have any complications and/or high risk complications, there is no reason to schedule an induction right at 41 weeks.  The research clearly shows no increase in risks before 42 weeks.

You can always decline the induction and delay it until 42 weeks.  Remember, you have the ultimate say in what happens to your body and your baby.

There are some natural ways to help your body prepare for labor and to avoid the induction if your care provider is pressuring you to induce.  You can read about them at http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/natural-ways-to-induce-labor.html


Best,
Catherine

Childbirth

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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