Early Induction Natural Birth Stories?

jennyelf

A friend of mine is likely going to be induced at 38 weeks for health reasons. Baby is also "sunny side up". She'd really like a intervention free birth (aside from the induction), but ultimately her goal is to avoid a c-section. She's really worried about cascading interventions. Does anyone have any early induction stories where they were still able to have a natural birth or just some happy early induction stories that will encourage her and comfort her to know that things can be okay?

Thank you!

lalamakita

Yes!  I did -  and I've read a lot of stories here of others, too.  

My story:

My water broke at 37w5d.  And contractions never started.  I don't know why my water broke - it happened when my DH helped me up off the couch - so I don't know if it was somewhat 'artificial' and not meant to happen, or what.  Anyhoo... contractions never started I tried a lot of things but to no avail.  My doc was very supportive of natural birth (it was a VBAC too) so he didn't 'insist' I come in until about 36 hours later (exactly 38 weeks).  At that time I was 1 cm (Boo!)  so they started a very low drip of pitocin and I was monitored.  I'd trained at Hypnobirthing, had a birthplan, supportive hospital staff and a doula (very important!)   and we just worked it one contraction at a time - had a yoga ball and heated rice sock and low lights and soothing music, etc.  I don't think my son was 'sunny side up' - but I  know the yoga ball and staying upright in different positions can help baby shift around (the way being in bed with an epidural won't) So after 15 hours of this, my son was born!  Perfect as could be.  I was also pretty motivated for specific reasons that helped me through - so if she can come up with concrete reasons to go pain-med free - it helped me. 

She can do it!  She'll need to prepare and be ready for the work involved, but it's possible!  

jennyelf

Update:
Instead of induction, water broke one day early and baby was born 7 hours later, no meds, epi, or any other interventions. When doctors and parents make a plan, baby laughs and does what they want anyway....

lizziealyssa

Lucky girl!  I had to be induced for high blood pressure, and my baby was also sunny side up...but I got through pain med free-so it is possible