I think my doctor is bullying me.

falllove · November 2010

I'm sorry you are feeling bulllied, but please keep in mind that you want a happy, HEALTHY baby. Going past 40 weeks is not only a concern of the placenta, it's also a concern that the baby will have it's first fecal movement, which the baby may then ingest. If that happens, there are many issues which may arise, including mental retardation, brain damage, and in worst cases, death. I do not mean to scare you, but it's not all about the break down of the placenta and oxygen levels, or about the size of your baby. I have seen too many babies in the NICU, because of this issue and women being uninformed or thinking they know better. Please do your own research and listen to what your doctors/midwives are telling you. Explain your concerns and flat out say you feel you are being bullied, and maybe they can explain it to you differently and will help you realize why they feel induction is a necessity. Just as everyone else has said, it is not acceptable to go past 42 weeks, for a variety of reasons. Take care and take joy in the blessing of your baby!!!

clutzyblonde · November 2010

My best friend and doula had both her children at 44 weeks. Some babies just need longer to cook than others. The baby will come when it is ready. I really would tell that dr to shove it...

The honest to goodness truth is that the average baby is actually 10 months long, not nine months like everyone tries to tell us. Honestly in women who refuse any intervention from Drs (who were only supposed to be there in case of emergencies and for some reason have taken over) average 42-43 weeks. There is nothing wrong with that and don't let people tell you otherwise. The baby will come when ready.

Seriously if the Dr is hinting at a section already (s)he needs to be told where to put that scalpel. As from what you said about your pregnancy so far there should be no reason to set you up for failure. Your body knows what it is doing and babies do too. Drs often mess up dates too, ultrasounds aren't completely accurate and basing the due date on you LMP can throw it off too. If I based my DD on my LMP I would be two weeks ahead of where I know I am based on the day I conceived.

Please trust your gut on this one. Show this Dr that there are women out there that are educated and know how to trust in their bodies. We need to show Drs that we can listen to our bodies and our babies will be just fine. If your gut for some reason tells you there is something wrong, that is when to be like ok, check it out. The Dr isn't in your body (s)he can't tell you what is best for you. Only you can decide that. They run "practices" for a reason....if you get my drift.

Sorry this is long, I just get very frustrated when Drs over step their boundaries and even more so when women let them just because they are trying to get another patient in there. It is not unhealthy nor unsafe to go past 40 wks unless you develop health concerns. Don't let anyone tell you that.

monica6318 · November 2010

I'm not sure why this was posted, you seem to have made up your mind on what you feel is best for you and your baby. It seems that the majority of women think it is wise to induce (especially when you doctor is telling you this). I have also had a really smooth pregnancy and am only 32 weeks, my doctor has already had the "induction conversation" with me. I must admit, it scared me but I know that my doc just wants me to be prepared for anything that may happen. I, like you, just want the best for my baby and feel that the doctors best interest is that as well. So, if she says induce, I will induce!!! Good luck with your decision, and wishing you a happy and healthy birth and baby!!!

LydeeC · November 2010

With both of my boys, my MD also let me know that nowadays (as compared to the 80's & 90's, it is not standard procedure to go over 42 weeks gestation. I would not be worried if I were you. She is telling you the protocol. You are not yet at 40 week's gestation - which, if you look it up in a medical dictionary is still "at term" you are not "overdue" until you hit the 41w&5day mark. I was 40w5days with my first & with my second, I was 40w3d. You are able to go safely anywhere between 37-42 weeks. That is all your MD is letting you know. She will monitor the baby, there will be NST (Non-stress Test) monitorings done on your baby for his/her/your safety. The doctor will work with you in honoring what you wish for birth, underneath the guidelines of what is safe for your child & yourself. I gave both my boys a "no - pitocin" talk & the very next day (with both), I went into labor & had them! I am like you, I trust my body, but I also know of, have heard from other moms whose bodies & babies are different. Trust your MD, and let him/her know your concerns & wishes as well. Good luck & blessings to you!

mikenj17 · November 2010

They can't MAKE you show up at the hospital for an induction! You're only 39 weeks...not overdue! I would definitely wait until you start to go into labor. Your body and baby will let you know when you're ready....don't rush nature

clydeisme · November 2010

I just had my 39 week appointment and my Doctor and I talked about being induced at 41 weeks. I don't want to be induced but for the safety of the baby I will do whatever needs to happen. I'm happy that my Doctor is letting me know worst case scenario now so its not a shocker if that has to happen. I don't think your Doctor is trying to bully you, I think your Doc is just preparing you for what could happen if your body doesn't go into labor on its own. It's better to talk about these things instead of not having you prepared at all. On a positive note you still have time to go into labor naturally, wishing you good luck!!!!

mrandmrsbrtva · November 2010

stand for what you want in a labor-this is your time, not the drs. and it does sounds like a setup for an unneccesary Csection when they induce you, the baby doesnt progress because you werent ready to go anyways, an then suddenly youve surpassed their time limit for labor as well as gestation and "well its in the best interest of the baby..."

I am a touch biased against drs because i have worked with enough to know that at the end of the day, they became doctors because it payed well above all. Do what feels right for you, go with your instincts, and if your REALLY adamant about birth going exactly as you want, opt for homebirth with a good doula/midwife. I am opting for homebirth for this exact reason. I will not be bullied by a dr about my own body and its workings, which, last i checked, are JUST FINE.

cass2you · November 2010

I'm sure your health care provider means well. Perhaps the important thing to ask is not, "could something go wrong?", but rather, "is something going wrong?" Going past your due date and postmaturity are not the same. True postmaturity (from The Merk Manual..."An uncommon syndrome of failing placental function and fetal jeopardy that occurs after 42 wk."), which does present dangers to your infant, is rare.

There certainly are complications that could arise, and that shouldn't be discounted, but are they happening in your circumstance? If you feel uncomfortable with induction at this point, discuss with your Dr. that you would like to have testing to make sure that your baby, placenta and fluid all appear within normal, healthy range. They can do this with a non-stress test and ultrasound. Typically, they will schedule you to undergo these tests on a weekly basis. Then you will know if your baby is, or is not, in danger. This way you can make an informed decision that you can feel good about. You can always decide for induction the next week if you change your mind, even if the tests are normal.

Be sure to keep yourself well hydrated. Studies have shown that drinking water increases the amount of amniotic fluid.

I might not go the route, however, of simply missing or cancelling your appointment. I believe it's important to communicate with your provider so you and your baby can be monitored during your wait. You do want to make sure both of you remain healthy.

My first pregnancy went 3 weeks past the estimated date of delivery. At 40 weeks they began monitering weekly. When I was told the amniotic fluid could get low, I simply asked if it was low. It was fine in my case. After the first 2 weeks, I was required to sign a waiver that I was going against their advice. I went into labor naturally at 43 weeks and gave birth vaginally to a healthy, normal sized (8lbs 2oz) baby boy. This choice was right in my circumstance, but might not be right for you.

I just wanted you to know that there are just as many normal, healthy births (probably more) for babies who go past the due date. Not everything out of the norm results in a horror story. For the record, my mother and my sister both went past their due dates (42 weeks, both) and had healthy babies as well.

By the way, there are many non-invasive ways to try and initiate labor. They may or may not work for you, but once you get to 40 weeks, it might be worth a try. Nipple stimulation, walking, accupressure points, etc. Try researching some.

I wish you the best in whatever choice you make.

nbedard · November 2010

Obviously, I'm a little late to this string and the original poster has likely already had her LO and is home, safe and sound. Nevertheless, a patient can always refuse medical intervention unless there is a reason that the patient is unable to make medical decisions (mental incompetence, incapacity, etc.). Is it always a good idea to refuse intervention? No, of course not. Is it always a good idea to do exactly what your doctor says without question? No, Dr's are human, sometimes they give bad advice. That's why the requirement is "informed" consent. So, what's a mommy to do? Get informed. Ask your OB questions, like: why do you want to do an induction? what makes it unsafe to carry a baby past 40 weeks? can you tell if any of that is happening to me? If you don't think it's a good idea, don't consent. Or, better yet, get a second opinion. In many states the law prevents a doctor from "abandoning" a pregnant patient when she is too close to her due date. Check on your state laws and know your rights. Then ask questions, get informed, and make the decision that is right for you.

bea0422 · November 2010

Im not sure how you feel about natural birthing and midwifery, but I have done a TON of studying and am planning on becoming a midwife myself. I was told by my midwife that there are several natural ways to "induce" labor without harming you or the baby. I TOTALLY understand your not wanting to get an induction. Nipple stimulation, sex (lots lol), walking, spicy foods, prayer/meditation, red rasberry leaf tea.... I would highly recomend looking into more natural forms of "labor induction", of course you'll want to talk to someone about it. Maybe there is a nurse midwife in your ob's office who would be willing to give you some advice? When doing it this way, your body will only respond if it is ready. I do know that it is standard to get an induction if your past 42 weeks...however, getting an induction very often leads to c-section. If you decide to go this route, i would strongly recommend hiring a labor doula to be there for you. Their job is to help you through labor ir you need it, or to simply make sure the doctors don't bully you into a c-section or other unnecessary interventions. Good Luck!

scaredykate201 · November 2010

I agree with previous posts about standing your ground. The average gestation length for first pregnancies is around 41 weeks anyways, which means than many last longer than that. My childbirth instructor suggested that we become very familiar with our rights as a pregnant patient, many of which we aren't told about in regular OB practices. It was really helpful to know these! I'm copying and pasting below (taken from https://www.aimsusa.org/ppbr.htm).

The Pregnant Patient has the right to participate in decisions involving her well-being and that of her unborn child, unless there is a clearcut medical emergency that prevents her participation. In addition to the rights set forth in the American Hospital Association's "Patient's Bill of Rights," the Pregnant Patient, because she represents TWO patients rather than one, should be recognized as having the additional rights listed below.

The Pregnant Patient has the right, prior to the administration of any drug or procedure, to be informed by the health professional caring for her of any potential direct or indirect effects, risks or hazards to herself or her unborn or newborn infant which may result from the use of a drug or procedure prescribed for or administered to her during pregnancy, labor, birth or lactation.

The Pregnant Patient has the right, prior to the proposed therapy, to be informed, not only of the benefits, risks and hazards of the proposed therapy but also of known alternative therapy, such as available childbirth education classes which could help to prepare the Pregnant Patient physically and mentally to cope with the discomfort or stress of pregnancy and birth. Such classes have been shown to reduce or eliminate the Pregnant Patient's need for drugs and obstetric intervention and should be offered to her early in her pregnancy in order that she may make a reasoned decisions.

The Pregnant Patient has the right, prior to the administration of any drug, to be informed by the health professional who is prescribing or administering the drug to her that any drug which she receives during pregnancy, labor and birth, no matter how or when the drug is taken or administered, may adversely affect her unborn baby, directly or indirectly, and that there is no drug or chemical which has been proven safe for the unborn child.

The Pregnant Patient has the right if Cesarean birth is anticipated, to be informed prior to the administration of any drug, and preferably prior to her hospitalization, that minimizing her intake of nonessential pre-operative medicine will benefit her baby.

The Pregnant Patient has the right, prior to the administration of a drug or procedure, to be informed of the areas of uncertainty if there is NO properly controlled follow-up research which has established the safety of the drug or procedure with regard to its on the fetus and the later physiological, mental and neurological development of the child. This caution applies to virtually all drugs and the vast majority of obstetric procedures.

The Pregnant Patient has the right, prior to the administration of any drug, to be informed of the brand name and generic name of the drug in order that she may advise the health professional of any past adverse reaction to the drug.

The Pregnant Patient has the right to determine for herself, without pressure from her attendant, whether she will or will not accept the risks inherent in the proposed treatment.

The Pregnant Patient has the right to know the name and qualifications of the individual administering a drug or procedure to her during labor or birth.

The Pregnant Patient has the right to be informed, prior to the administration of any procedure, whether that procedure is being administered to her because a) it is medically indicated, b) it is an elective procedure (for convenience, c) or for teaching purposes or research).

The Pregnant Patient has the right to be accompanied during the stress of labor and birth by someone she cares for, and to whom she looks for emotional comfort and encouragement.

The Pregnant Patient has the right after appropriate medical consultation to choose a position for labor and birth which is least stressful for her and her baby.

The Obstetric Patient has the right to have her baby cared for at her bedside if her baby is normal, and to feed her baby according to her baby's needs rather than according to the hospital regimen.

The Obstetric Patient has the right to be informed in writing of the name of the person who actually delivered her baby and the professional qualifications of that person. This information should also be on the birth certificate.

The Obstetric Patient has the right to be informed if there is any known or indicated aspect of her or her baby's care or condition which may cause her or her baby later difficulty or problems.

The Obstetric Patient has the right to have her and her baby's hospital- medical records complete, accurate and legible and to have their records, including nursing notes, retained by the hospital until the child reaches at least the age of majority, or, alternatively, to have the records offered to her before they are destroyed.

The Obstetric Patient, both during and after her hospital stay, has the right to have access to her complete hospital-medical records, including nursing notes, and to receive a copy upon payment of a reasonable fee and without incurring the expense of retaining an attorney.

Linds221 · November 2010

While I was pregnant, the hospital staff at our birthing class said that the reason for the 42 week mark, is that the placenta is only good for about that long.

Also, I had an induction and was nervous as well and know how you feel, they did my induction at 37 weeks because the baby just stopped gaining enough and she is wonderful and thriving now. I had an amazing birthing experience. If they wait til week 41, I would say that's better than risking the placenta shutting down after week 42

miglenka2000 · November 2010

I feel like they are just setting me up for an unneccessary c-section, which the doctor has already slyly tried suggesting we set up.

Do not let yourself be bullied into a planned c-section - that's just wrong. But induction is not the end of the world. I had one after my waters broke with no contractions, and had an extremely painful back labor as a result. But no c-section. It was not the dream birthing experience, but it was ok.

Try to make it clear to your doctor that you wish to go without intervention for as long as the baby and you are in good shape, which means regular NSTs and probably ultrasounds. Is the doctor aware of what your wishes are? After 41 weeks pass they are afraid of malpractice litigation if something happens to your baby or you. 41 wks is my doctor's limit, too. I'm sure it's different in every woman's case whether the baby is well or not, but medicine is very result-oriented, they essentially don't care what kind of labor and delivery you'll have as long as everyone is ok at the end.

Try to be positive and hope for labor to start soon! Have sex, eat spicy foods, take walks and move around a lot, do some nipple massage... i'm sure there's more ways, just look them up. You could also ask the doctor about other ways to induce aside from pitocin - there are hormonal creams and gels that are applied externally to the cervix and help with effacement and dilation. And you don't have to be hooked up to an iv for that.

I'm at 40wks, 4 days today and hoping the baby comes before my 41 wks expire. Don't want to be induced either.

Wish you all the best and good luck!

vcrown · November 2010

I agree with the others. However, I would ask that you not schedule the induction and then not show up. Although you could do that. Think of the people who may have had to delay their own induction because the hospital had been planning for your stay.

I was induced at just over 41 weeks and they were so busy in those few days they had to cancel a lot of appointments. So keep in mind that your appointment could go to someone who could really use that slot.

Having said that, I wasn't sure how I felt about my induction. It took a long time for my daughter to drop while I was in the hospital so I'm pretty sure I avoided a c-section by having her while she was still small enough for a vaginal birth.

Good luck! I hope everything goes well for you!

FrankRenee · November 2010

I think that you should not question your doctor as I also know someone who's doctor made them go to 42 weeks and the baby died. I am going to be induce in less than 12 days and I am fine with it. Technically you are full term at 37 weeks. If the placenta stops doing its job then you will be having a harder time than if you just let them induce you.

stephanieann222 · November 2010

40 weeks is a average number that a german doctor decided was 'normal' for women. When in reality most women will deliver after that time. In fact, white women usually don't deliver until 41 weeks, while black women tend to deliver at 39. I would say that unless you have gone past 42 weeks, you shouldn't induce. Besides that, unless you've charted and know exactly when you conceived, your due could be off by days, which could mean the doctor is trying to induce before the baby is even ready to come. The scale they use to decide due dates is based on a 28 day cycle, which might not be average to you. My cycles are always 30-31 days long, do basing my due date on a 28 day cycle would put my due date off by 3 or 4 days. I had my daughter this June, my due date was June 9th, she didn't decide to come till June 13th(though she didn't actually get here till 21 hours later on the 14th, after 4 hours pushing with no meds. )

A great book for pregnant women who are actually concerned about their labor experience should read A Thinking Woman's Guide to a better birth by Henci Goer. And the movie The Business of Being Born is very infomative as well. There is an alarming large rate of women being induced and having unnecessary c-sections in our country. Doctors telling women that they just can't handle having a baby naturally. God knew what he was doing when he made women to have babies. Your baby knows when its ready to come out, and unless there is a medical concern that your baby could be in danger then you should let nature run it's course.

alinarhey · November 2010

I think the bigger issue is that you feel like your doctor is not listening to your needs, and that's a problem. While going PAST 42 weeks may not be indicated you are 3 weeks away from that and a lot can happen. Remember, you are in control and this is your baby and your pregnancy. I think you should have a very frank conversation with your doctor and tell him when and if you want to be induced. It's always your decision!! If that doesn't work, I'd look for a different doctor that will listen to you even at how far along you are. Doctors seem to be more and more looking for what's convenient for them and make them not liable, not what's best for you and your baby. Take the power, girl!!

FlippyHippy · November 2010

I have some pretty intense thoughts on induction and have done a lot of research on them, personally and for my work as a childbirth instructor.

Inductions are not needed 90% of the time that they are given. If you are not considered high-risk, and it sounds like you are not, your baby and your body will set labor in motion when the baby is ready. Your estimated due date is just that...an estimate. The baby may need more time to prepare for this world.

The actual average length of gestation for women who aren't induced is actually 41 1/2 weeks. The reason why most OBs don't let their clients go over 42 weeks, is if that is the accurate date, that is typically when signs of the baby being done would occur.

If you and the baby are not in distress, and the amniotic fluid levels are regular, there really is no reason to get the baby out, except for convenience to the Dr. Once the baby is out a lot of the unknowns are out. Even if there are problems from baby coming too early, the Dr can now see the baby and deal with them, as opposed to trusting your body, which is not planned or scheduled.

The typical way induction is done in the US is with a synthetic version of the hormone oxytocin, called Pitocin. Pitocin is actually not approved by the FDA for elective induction, and there are only 4 or 5 medical reasons that it is approved for (maternal diabetes, rH problems, fetal heart distress being the three top reasons). Even so, OBs routinely use Pitocin for elective induction and augmentation.

When you use a hormone to induce or augment, or even when you use pain medication for labor, you up your risk of c-section by close or over 50%. It's not for sure you'll have a c-section just because, but your risk is much higher. If your OB is already suggesting a c-section, I wouldn't be surprised if you end up with one based on some 'emergency' in labor that could have been prevented if you hadn't induced.

One thing I would suggest to do is find and hire a doula, if you can find one that is available this short notice. A good doula will help you with more information and will help you keep to your desires for birthing (and if induced, help you prevent a c-section by helping you through labor). Couples who have a good doula support them see a 50-75% LOWERING of their risk of c-section.

I want to include my email here, so please feel free to email me personally if you have any more questions or want more information. Like I said, I have studied this a LOT and am very passionate about it. I would love to answer any questions or point you toward more information.

Bottom line, avoid the induction. It will be easier to decline your OB's suggestion if you have solid information in your hands. If you do end up with an induction, being prepared will help you avoid a c-section.

Please email me if you would like. etxnaturalbirth@gmail.com

This is YOUR baby, YOUR birth and YOU will live with the results of whatever choices are made. Good luck making the choices and enjoy your baby!

Morgan

jrmrsb · November 2010

I'm sure this is all too late now and you are home with baby. I hope you had a good experience.

For the record, in France, a pregnancy is 42 weeks long not 40 and due dates are estimated with this in mind. Therefore they allow their mums-to-be to go a lot longer. Like lots of people have said, the placenta failing is rare and it sounds like you are having all the right tests to make sure you know when or if that is happening.

Trust your instincts. Your body knows what it is doing. Just make sure you are doing everything to make sure baby is in the right position to help your labour- lying only on your left, keeping active (some yoga positions are great) . Drink plenty of fluids, try all the natural labour-inducers you can find- in Scotland they call it the 3 Cs- curry, cobbles(bumpy roads), and coitus. Also raspberry leaf tea, acupuncture and lots of other things can help too.

Don't get me wrong though, I am all for medical intervention IF and WHEN it is necessary. That's why the medical profession is there.

Good luck and I hope you are all well.

acerny1 · November 2010

I have to tell you that I declined induction as well and I went to 42 weeks and my baby was to big and got stuck during birth which caused him to stop breathing and his heart to stop, he was gone for 21 min before they were able to start his heart and breathing again. He did make it but had to be in the NICU for 2 months and has severe brain damage. It was the hardest thing I have ever been through in my life and I blamed myself so much for not listening to the Dr's. I do agree that they do a lot of unnecessary things and intervene way to often but you have to think about the consequences certain actions can cause. My poor son has had so many medical issues because of a choice I made. He has a feeding tube, I was never able to breast feed him, he has never cried, I wasn't able to hold him till he was 3 weeks old, there is a chance he will never walk or talk or see or hear- basic things that people need to function and I will probably blame myself for the rest of my life that I didn't make the right decisions for my baby when I had the chance. I am not telling you to do something a certain way just ask questions and know why they are telling you to do something and I do know its hard to know when to give into something you don't feel is necessary. Good luck to you I wish you the best.

shannons6571 · November 2010

At some point, like week 41 or 42, the placenta starts to basically whither,die, and rot. It is meant to sustain your baby's life only for so long.

samdthompson78 · November 2010

JennyGirl79 · November 2010

I am completely appalled at people on here saying you shouldn't question your doctor "they're the professional" SO WHAT if they are a doctor that DOESN'T make them always right. Maybe he was just preparing her for an "in case" but seeing that most births average 40w5d i see no point in inducing until at the very least after that. She should be questioning him/her and doing her own research so she is informed about her own medical care. I'm so sick of people doing whatever their doctor says just b/c he's a doctor. Do your own research!

(sorry i guess i sound a little bitchy, I'm hungry and tired and work in the medical field and am always seeing people who say " i don't know why my doctor sent me im just here")

sdarjean · November 2010

I don't understand what the problem is...the doctor is not bullying anyone. Call me crazy but I want to be induced as early as possible. Just sitting there waiting to go into labor does not sould like my idea of fun. Of course I say this because I was high risk in the beginning of my pregnancy but now everything is great. But I know that things could change towards the end and I would rather be induced two weeks EARLY rather than wait for complications to happen. You still get the full on birth process with an induction. Its just safer than waiting too long.

lvk104 · November 2010

They all say that, but you don't have to listen. Keep going in to check on your fluid levels and the baby's heart rate, keep counting movements, and relax. Your body and your baby's will communicate when it's time to give birth - I personally knew a family who simply went to ten months...the grandmother had three children, all at 44 weeks. Her two daughters had ten month pregnancies, and my friend had her child at 43 weeks and six days.

This is just to say - ultrasounds and LMP guesstimates are NOT precise. Unless there's actually something wrong with you or the baby, let it happen naturally. No one has been pregnant forever, and while it seems like a lot of the women on this board are trying to scare you into thinking an induction is necessary, it's not. Two or three weeks on either side of your "due" date is normal, and healthy. And no, the placenta will not magically calcify on the 42 week mark.

lvk104 · November 2010

"At some point, like week 41 or 42, the placenta starts to basically whither,die, and rot. It is meant to sustain your baby's life only for so long."

That's just really not true. Really.

The placenta is the baby's organ, and will generally (baring some rare conditions and complications) keep up its work as long as the baby needs it (i.e. as long as the baby is in the womb.

And to the OP, don't let them convince you the baby is too big, either. In actuality, less than 1% of babies are too big for their mother's pelvis. That, and if you look at statistics from a natural birth community like The Farm (Ina May Gaskin's place), you'll note that medical intervention is only necessary in a tiny percentage of births (less than 2%), and that induction is not needed at all.

viktorka · November 2010

i completely agree with you on the point of not wanted to be induced or having a c-section. i am currently at week 41 and scheduled for an nst this afternoon.

without being an md or knowing any of your pregnancy details, it sounds like you should talk with your husband (or coach) and get all your questions and concerns out there. then ask them to go with you to your next doctor's appointment for support. talk to your doctor, tell them how you feel and see if they can reassure you. try to ask the "right" questions that will get you answers so you can make informed decisions.

good luck!

silver_strands87 · November 2010

Okay, most of the responding posts that I am seeing on here say that the OP is stating that she wants to go PAST 42 weeks. If you actually read the post it states that she's not even being allowed to consider going TO 42 weeks. I'm sure the OP knows that going past 42 weeks is a bad idea, of course then I don't want to assume... Now, I feel the doctor has a right to discuss induction; however, not at this time. The OB probably should've held off talking about induction until the 40 week appointment, since all of her reports came back with positive feedback The induction date should be between 41-42 weeks.

OBs can be over-bearing bullies with over-lord complexes sometimes (watch "The Business of Being Born"). If your levels are looking good and the baby isn't under any sort of distress, I'd let he/she know an induction date that would work for me -- not the OB. I've already told my OB that if no complications arise, I'd like to be induced on Feb. 1st, which is exactly two days before I hit 42 weeks. So far, he's alright with that, and I have non insulin-dependent GD.

Remember, it's your body and you have the right to say when you want something done. Honestly, if this doctor is hinting at a C-section already, I'd try to see if there was someone else out there who was more pro-natural (I'm assuming that's what you're more into). A rarity these days, but they are out there. I have one and I'm very happy with him. He is labor induction happy, but not once has he mentioned a section because those are for last resort emergency situations in his opinion. You do have a higher risk of getting a c-section if you induce labor while still hard, low, and closed, but the risk goes down the softer and higher your cervix gets. All-in-all, you shouldn't outright refuse the induction if you're not completely opposed (even my cousin had to have a bit of pitocin to help things along - and that was during an at-home birth). You just let him know a date and time (before the 42 week mark) that works with YOUR schedule and YOUR body and if he doesn't like it -- tough. That's the date that works best for you. Good luck! :-)

traci37 · November 2010

kcl22:

I'm not a doctor but I believe going past 42 weeks is dangerous for mother and baby. I'd say an induction if you haven't had the baby at that point is reasonable, if not necessary. Could be wrong...

My mom was exactly 3 weeks late with both me and my brother and that was in 1976 and 1981. There were no ill affects for either our mom or for us. She was not induced. Besides I think of how small we could have been if born on time. I was 7 lbs 1 oz and my brother was 7 lbs 6 oz. Think about how much weight we gained in those last 3 weeks. In both of these cases, I think being late was just fine.

terri.klein · November 2010

I think anything after 42 weeks is considered 'harmful' from what I have heard/read/researched, granted all woman's dates are different (which they should have adjusted for) and when you concieved may not be precisely known so that could play into it as well. I have read the books that are listed on here and yes they do say that inductions are used too often, which they are. However, you chose this doctor and perhaps then you should sit down with them and ask why they think they should induce. Have a flat out honest conversation with them, you have been going to the for 39 weeks do you really want to switch in the final round? I am at 37 weeks and have asked about it already for my own knowledge/curiosity. It is pretty standard care I think perhaps they are just trying to warn you that if you don't go into labor soon that potentially you will have to be induced. I go to a midwife and she said that if we go over 42 weeks we will be transfered to the hospital for an induction because that is one of their care limitiations, And I guess if she is saying that, because trust me they are anti-interference I guess I would trust your doctor. I am not and MD, so I have to trust the ones I choose.

tblove07 · November 2010

This is what happened to me. My whole pregnancy has been great and problem free. I posted this on babycenter and willl share with you.

I have a huge Story and i need advice!!!!! The other night(3 days ago) i was shopping at a albertsons. After shopping, i was walking the cart to my car in the parking lot. It was parked next to the sidewalk. as i was nearing my car, the wheels locked up, causing the metal hand bar to smack into my belly. Im 38 weeks so my belly is huge. It knocked the wind out of me, while forcing me to the ground. Luckily i was not bleeding or leaking any fluid. I called the triage, and they said come in. After being monitered, i was okayed to leave. The next night around 11pm, i started having cramps and my stomache was tight. It was like a contraction, but it wouldnt let up. It stayed tight for 3 hours. I decided to call triage. They told me to come in again. I was put on a moniter for 2 hours. The midwife came in, and after studying my fetal moniter paper, she told me, that the baby had ONE small heart rate dip. She measured my fluid and told me i was borderline. Around 5.2 when it should be around 10. She said she would talk to the doctor and see if i could be admitted. My husband and i were excited and nervous because maybe we would meet our baby that day. The midwife came back and said that the doctor agreed that we should be admitted. When we got to the room, a nurse came in and told me i would be given Pitocin. Mind you ladies, In my orginal birth plan, my doctor and i agreed on NO PITOCIN. I agreed with the nurse because she said that it was the best thing for the baby. I was put on Pitocin for 4 hours. After 4 hours i was still 60 percent effaced, and 1 cm dilated. The same as when i started. I told the nurses if i could be let off pitocin because the contractions were becoming harder but there was no progress. I wanted to try and see if my body could do it naturally. Let me tell you the midwife and nurses were extremely upset. I could tell they just wanted me to have this baby and were willing to push me and my baby as far as it could to see results. I was let off the pitocin for 2 hours to see if there was progress. They said if there was no progress after that, i would go back on pitocin. I didnt understand why, because ever since that intial heart rate dip when i had first arrived after 4 hours of pitocin. If my baby really was in distress, wouldnt she have started to be in more distress, from all that pitocin? But the whole time, her heart rate remained strong and steady. My fluid levels were back up. I had gone from 5.2 to 11. So i didnt understand why i was needing to be induced? Around 11pm, i was started on pitocin again. For 5 hours they uppered the dosage ever 30 min. I WAS IN PAIN!!! Yet no dilation or more effacement. The midwife came in and told me she wanted to break my water. I was NOT OKAY with this, because i learned in my birth class that breaking the water was only considered nessesary if the labor was slow or the baby was in distress. I kindly told her no. I was going to wait. There was no need yet. She was mad that i didnt comply. She then told me she was to do a cervix exam. She then proceeded to break my membranes.

I dont know if any of you have had this done but it is extremely painful and uncomfortable. It hurt SOOO bad. I started crying. After she was done, she just left the room. I knew what she had done. My husband held me while i cried. I felt abused. Honestly. These nurses and midwife treated me so cold and like i was nothing but problem. To be solved and move on. I decided from there that my baby was not ready to come. I was extremely tired and worn out. I decided they were not looking out for my best interest. I told my midwife I would not break my water. For the last 12 hours i was there, my baby had no dips in heart rate and the fluid was great. There was no need to be induced. I was taken off pitocin and was to be monitered for 2 hours before being let go. The next day(which was 2 days ago) i had a non stress test. My baby past with flying colors. I asked the new midwife that i had just met, what she thought about everything, after i explained it to her. She agreed with me and said that i was def heading for a c-section. She also said that it was wrong of them to force an induction if there was no need. I was only 38 weeks anyways. It was unessesary stress to me and the baby.

Now that its 2 days later, i have not felt any contractions or cramps. But feel she is moving less. I dont know why. I havent gone in to labor which means the nurses and midwife were either 1. ignorant or 2. Wrong. I feel they treated me and my baby horrible and it was negligence. Im def going to go in and complain. I will state that i dont want anyone from that specfic staff team to work with me again when i actually do go in for labor which my due date is Nov 13, 2010. My mom and sister have both told me to complain. Do i have a legal right also to file a medical malpractice? I believe me and my unborn baby werent put in the best interest. They threw their weight around and it makes me mad that i was treated this way. I believe they wanted to do a c-section even after me and my baby proved to be okay.

Penguin81 · November 2010

amy052006:
Sorry, but this sounds totally standard issue. At my 37 week, I was told if there is no baby by 41, you need an induction on the books before you hit 42.
My very reputable and progressive hospital won't let you hit 42.
At some point, enough is enough.

This

MrsThang · November 2010

Don't do anything you are uncomfortable with! You will not be dropped as a patient, and if you are not comfortable telling your doctor you wish to wait until your 42nd week to intervene, have your husband or family member do so.

Unless your doctor has given you a specific medical reason for inducing, it is not medically necessary. If your doctor says he/she doesn't want to put you or your baby in danger, but doesn't give you a specific reason, don't give in to fear tactics and what works best for your doctor. Remember, babies come on their own time, and due dates are just guesses.

You are not in any danger to wait until you are 42 weeks, if all other indications are normal. If this is your first baby, 41-1/2 weeks is not uncommon, according to my midwife. My daughter was born at 41 weeks, perfect.

You are right to feel like you are being set up for an unnecessary c-section because I think you are. If you hit week 42 and no baby, then it is time to discuss next steps. After 42 weeks, yes, the placenta is not designed to function much longer, but honestly, sometimes babies just need to cook a little longer.

I know you don't want to look back and feel like you would do things differently. Don't give in to something you don't feel is right-do what makes sense for you. Your doctor isn't the one giving birth and your doctor should work for and with you, you are paying the doctor for his/her services.

Try to stay calm and relaxed and tell your baby to come when she/he is ready. The medical community is too quick to rush nature along. Best of luck to you!

AlKe420 · November 2010

The most common reason that the dr.'s don't let you go past 41 wks. is because your placenta will stop functioning properly after that. The nurse who taught our Prep. for birth class repeatedly told us there's an "expiration date" on your placenta, that's the main reason for having to induce or do a c-section after that time.

ToledoDeux · November 2010

slwhatley:
I bet you deserve it.

Jesus christ. WTF is wrong with you?

The amount of misinformation in this post is making my head hurt.

ToledoDeux · November 2010

slwhatley:
I bet you deserve it.

Jesus christ. WTF is wrong with you?

The amount of misinformation in this post is making my head hurt.

audreyclarissa · November 2010

I think if your Doc was pressuring you to induce at 39, he was being pushy; if he was forcing you to, then he was bulling. However, it is protocol not to allow pregnancy past 42 weeks. So by saying "will not be permitted" is for your babys safetly and to protect the practice of the Dr and his license...period.

nessie421 · November 2010

If you're going off your LMP, you may be off by a week or more. We were actively TTC and I was tracking my cycles. Based on my LMP, doctors would say I was due January 20th. However, based on my ovulation (and a very early ultrasound), I am actually due January 26th. Had we gone based on my LMP, a doctor might be trying to induce me early for no good reason.

I think that if you are being closely monitored and your placenta and amniotic fluid are fine, it is best to just wait and see. Remember, this is your body! Someone also mentioned that she was scheduled for a c-section just because her baby was over 8 lbs. I've known several people that have had 8+ and even 9+ lb babies vaginally (the person who gave birth to a 9lb 2oz daughter was very thin as well).

Good luck and stick to your guns!

Tikat · November 2010

Hi There,

I went almost 2 week overdue with DD and the problem with going this long is that the Baby ends up emptying it's bowels in utero- upping the risk of meconium in it's lungs...which is never good! (I did not get to hold my baby for the first 30 minutes because the were busy getting her heartrate under control and her lungs cleaned out... So the information given to you is perfectly correct- you def. do not want to go past 42 weeks...

shawnasteele · November 2010

Well, u def don't want to go past 42 weeks. However, docs nowadays tend to want to schedule you for an induction for their convenience (not ALL, but most). Unnecessary inductions lead to c-sections, a lot. I just feel women should be allowed to go into labor naturally, and that just doesn't happen much anymore! If you don't go into labor on your own, then your doc should consider induction...maybe that's just what she meant. Preparing you for just in case...

Don't be bullied into an induction for convenience sake! Good luck.

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