38 weeks and no internal

KrisM86

So I had my 38 week appointment today. Everything looks good; LO is measuring right on track. My MW didn't offer to do an internal and I decided not to ask for one. I have been dying to know if I've made more progress than the 75% effacement at the last appointment, but I know it really doesn't mean anything. I figured if there wasn't any more progress, I'd be disappointed and even more irritated with my constant contractions. If I had made more progress, I'd probably spend the next week more anxious to go into labor than I am now. 

It's kind of nice not knowing...it helps remind me my body is doing exactly what it needs to do, whatever that may be. I invite all you ladies to join me and avoid more internals before your EDD unless there is a real reason to have one. It's freeing! 

Fianschneid

That's a great attitude to have.

I have an internal every week with my OB but I don't take much stock in it, either.

Saemilyn

I haven't had any internals! They'll do one if I go past 40 weeks. I don't see the point, the stats mean nothing, you could go for weeks being 3cm dilated and 50% effaced, no point in all that anxiety. 

Tinkertini3

I'm with you on this one! I don't think there's a point either, besides curiosity.  The only internal I had last week hurt, and told me that I haven't made any progress which just disappointed me since I have had constant contractions too. 

I'm requesting no more internals unless I have labor symptoms, but whether or not my doctors will insist is another story.  I said something about it last week & she said they really like to make sure they're done every week now.  I guess they can't make me if I say no!

cfemiani

I was supposed to have my first internal today, however, after my doctor saw my NST and AFI results, he said that he didn't see any reason to a pelvic and that he will see about doing an internal next week.  I didn't push the issue.  While I am a bit curious, I also don't see any reason to go checking if he doesn't need to! 

colliebabe

My doc said she didn't do any until 39 weeks.  I ended up having one at my 38 week appt (different doctor) but all I found out was that I was closed up and tight.  I would have rather not known (not that it means much.)

Ariana2O11

My doctor starts doing internals at 38 weeks, if she deems it necessary. Frankly, I'm okay if I don't get one until the week of my due date. I might just even pass on the 38 week one.