Pressure to induce

poison489

I just had a visit with my doctor and he is really pressuring me to induce on Thursday (when I turn 41 weeks).   He started going over all of the risks of letting the baby cook any longer and kind of freaked me out.  He is also using the fact that my baby is measuring 9 lbs 1 oz as of last Tuesdays size u/s to say that it is better that I have this baby sooner rather than later, mentioning the increased risk for shoulder dystocia. I have had a very healthy pregnancy, no GD, no other complications.  He totally made me feel like I am putting the baby at risk if I don't induce, even saying "the most important thing is a healthy baby".  I had tried to switch to a midwife or more natural birth friendly doctor, but didn't have any luck due to being so far along when I attempted the switch.  The doctor gave me a bishop score of 6 and said it was only so low because I haven't dropped yet.  I am 2 cm and 100% effaced.

Please tell me I am not insane for not taking him up on the induction.  

sbevmc09

Personally, just based on what you've said here, I wouldn't choose to induce.  Now, if he wants to start doing non-stress tests I'd be okay with that, but no, based on a guess on size and the fact that he *thinks* you're 41 weeks, I wouldn't do it.  I'm sorry that you're feeling pressured though.  That's not fair at all.

alanap

Don't let him freak you out.  You have had a great pregnancy so far and the baby is fine.  Growth scans are notorious for being inaccurate.  All of the research says that it should be completely fine for you to go all the way to 42 weeks. 

 This is your baby and your body.  You are in control.

vintagejjane

alanap:

 This is your baby and your body.  You are in control.

 

This exactly. You get to decide what happens, not your doctor.

WearingRed

vintagejjane:

alanap:

 This is your baby and your body.  You are in control.

 

This exactly. You get to decide what happens, not your doctor.

Yep I agree too! Also the most mom not induced start labor at 41 weeks 1 day. So how much can ONE more day hurt.

mom2be0912

alanap:

Don't let him freak you out.  You have had a great pregnancy so far and the baby is fine.  Growth scans are notorious for being inaccurate.  All of the research says that it should be completely fine for you to go all the way to 42 weeks. 

 This is your baby and your body.  You are in control.

Totally agree with this. 

aliena

Measuring is not accurate.  Dating is not perfect and can be off 2 weeks either way.  My ob always said I had until 41w6d and I think that is pretty much accepted in the community.

shutupanddance07

I don't think you're insane at all, and I would have made the same call. First off, size ultrasounds aren't known for being accurate. They can be off by as much as two pounds. You're dilating on your own and fully effaced. Some babies take their time with the drop. You've got a week. Your labor will probably be easier if you just wait til baby drops and go into labor on your own. If you're still pregnant in a week, let them schedule your induction. 

poison489

Thank you ladies for all of the support.  The doctor just made me feel so stupid if I pass this "opportunity" up.  I trust my body and know that giving birth is a natural process, not a medical condition.  Luckily my husband has my back as well.