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3rd Trimester
Foley Catheter
Hi out there, wondering if anyone has any experience with a foley catheter induction. My doc has suggested one and I'm really hesitant to be induced but the thought of just getting this going is very tempting. I've just heard these can lead to super long labors and ultimately c-sec in some cases. any advice??
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Re: Foley Catheter
Not always true. I think it depends on your doc or facility. I had epidural with my first two and no catheter. The nurse even said they don't automatically put them in unless you are having trouble emptying your bladder (to the point where it's not healthy) or if you are getting a c-section. Since my 2nd labor was kind of long, after about 8 hours they straight cathed me (hold a cath in long enough to drain the bladder and immediately remove it)
As far as for labor induction, it's a new one on me. I was induced with my last two using only pitocin in the IV. If they have to induce this one, my doc said she uses a prostoglandin on the cervix first....then pitocin later.
No. A foley catheter goes into the bladder. It is also known as an "indwelling catheter"(Been sticking foley catheters into my patients for 6 years now....). There are also straight catheters that are used to just empty your bladder then remove (paraplegics sometimes use these at home).
Using a foley to induce labor is another use for it...but not the primary one.
Some facilities DO automatically stick a foley cath in the bladder and leave it while the epidural is in place (to drain the bladder). But a lot of women think it's "mandatory" if they have an epi (it used to be a very common practice). But many hospitals now don;t require it when getting an epi......they just straight cath quickly if your bladder needs drained.
If I don't go into labor on my own by Sunday morning I will be getting induced. Because I want to go the most drug free route possible, my MW suggested trying a foley bulb first before resorting to cytotec. I'm not very comfortable with the use of cytotec so I hope that the foley bulb will be all it takes to get this baby out.
As far as if you should try it at this point in the game or not is totally up to you. I personally am waiting until the last possible second (42 weeks) to get induced. Many OBs and MWs are simply off on your EDD and your not actually overdue at 40 weeks. Baby will come on it's own when it is ready and if not, you'll get induced at 42 weeks (depending on the health of mom and baby and your providers philosophy).
Good luck!
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