BREAKING NEWS
37 Weeks Pregnant? You’re Not Alone: Induction of Labor on the Rise
LATEST UPDATE: 12:00 PM, March 15, 2023
Pregnancy anxiety is a real thing, and for many expecting mothers, reaching the 37-week mark can be a nerve-wracking experience. The constant monitoring, the anticipation, and the uncertainty of when labor will start can be overwhelming. However, a recent trend is changing the game for many expectant mothers – induction of labor.
THE RISE OF INDUCTION OF LABOR
According to a recent study published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, the number of women opting for induction of labor has increased significantly over the past decade. In fact, the study found that the induction rate rose from 9.5% in 2007 to 24.1% in 2017. But what’s driving this trend?
WHY IS INDUCTION OF LABOR ON THE RISE?
Experts point to several factors contributing to the increase in induction rates. These include:
- Prolonged pregnancy: As women wait longer to start their families, they may experience prolonged pregnancies, increasing the likelihood of induction.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypertension and gestational diabetes, may require induction to ensure a healthy outcome for both mother and baby.
- Advanced maternal age: Women over 35 years old are more likely to experience induction due to age-related health concerns.
- Fetal distress: If the fetus is experiencing distress, induction may be necessary to ensure a safe delivery.
IS INDUCTION OF LABOR SAFE?
While induction of labor is generally considered safe, it’s not without risks. Some potential complications include:
- Fetal distress: Induction can cause the fetus to experience distress, which may lead to further complications.
- Cesarean section: Induction can increase the risk of a cesarean section (C-section) if the cervix doesn’t dilate or the baby’s heart rate becomes irregular.
- Postpartum hemorrhage: Induction can increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, which is a life-threatening condition.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING INDUCTION OF LABOR
If your healthcare provider recommends induction, here’s what you can expect:
- Cervical ripening: Your healthcare provider will use a combination of medications and techniques to ripen your cervix.
- Fetal monitoring: Your baby’s heart rate will be closely monitored to ensure their well-being.
- Pitocin: A synthetic version of oxytocin, Pitocin, will be administered to stimulate contractions.
- Monitoring and adjustment: Your healthcare provider will closely monitor your progress and adjust the induction process as needed.
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL INDUCTION
While induction can be a daunting experience, there are steps you can take to prepare:
- Stay informed: Educate yourself on the induction process and potential complications.
- Communicate with your healthcare provider: Share your concerns and questions with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re both on the same page.
- Stay calm and focused: Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization, to help manage anxiety.
BREAKING NEWS UPDATE
In related news, a new study published in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine suggests that women who undergo induction of labor may experience a lower risk of severe maternal morbidity. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 women and found that induction was associated with a significant reduction in severe maternal morbidity, including blood transfusions and ICU admission.
STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER UPDATES
As new research emerges and trends continue to shift, we’ll be here to bring you the latest news and updates on induction of labor. Stay informed, stay empowered, and get ready to welcome your little one!
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What should I expect? I know every pregnancy, birth experience, and induction is different but if anyone has been induced around this time please let me know how it went. I’m pretty much not dilated or effaced yet (I don’t think) at 36 weeks and the thought of induction going successful feels slim currently. I have preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, group b strep positive in my urine since 10 weeks, and I have HSV 2 as well. I know it’s highly possible I’ll need a C-section due to some of these issues so I’m preparing myself mentally.
What all should I have to prepare myself physically? Anything I should put in the hospital bag for C section specifically? I’ve currently been in and out of the hospital twice this week, needing checkups and NSTs 3 times a week, and I’m on complete bedrest until delivery. I was told they’re going to try to avoid pitocin as much as possible and hope my cervix is soft enough to do a foley bulb or membrane sweep to get things moving first. I was induced with pitocin last time and only had a 16ish hour birth at 39 weeks due to gestational hypertension as well. How are those pain wise? I’ve heard awful things about foley bulbs and membrane sweeps so I’ve been extremely nervous about that.
With birthing at 37 weeks is a NICU stay possible as well? I know it’s technically full term but it still seems too early but with all the complications I’m having I know it’s best to induce then. Any and all comments are appreciated, like I said I know everyone’s different and will have different opinions I’m just trying to prepare myself mentally for all of this. I got this news and preeclampsia diagnosis Monday so it’s still pretty fresh and stressful. Thanks in advance for any comments.
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