QuestionI am scheduled to be induced on Friday, 7/7. My doctor has asked me to go to the hospital on Thursday evening where I will be given something to soften my cervix. What am I likely to receive and is it likely to bring on labor prior to actually being induced? Also are there any other side effects of taking such a medication?
Thank you.
AnswerHi :)
Ok, without knowing the specific medication, here is what I can tell you.
You should ask your doctor what he is using.
But in general your doctor may use prostaglandin gel, a natural substance that helps soften the cervix and induce labor, or a synthetic form of the gel. When the cervix is soft and thinning, there are several techniques that may be used to stimulate the contractions that will open the cervix and allow the baby to begin descending through the birth canal. You may begin labor on your own. If not, Pitocin might be suggested.
Benefits?
Prostaglandin gel may decrease or eliminate the amount of oxytocin needed for induction.
Risks?
The gel may cause intense and prolonged contractions that are hard and fast and stressful on the baby and you. These contractions can last 3 or more minutes and require a medication to stop them.
There is also the possibility that the gel is placed, nothing happens and you go home to come back in a day.
It all depends on if your body is ready to respond.
Absolutly ask your doctor
2. What are the Benefits
3. What are the Risks
4. What are the Alternatives
5. Do I have time to make a decision
That is BRAT Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Decision.
That will help you to remember which questions to ask.
You luck to you and your family :)
