Delayed Induction: What to Expect at 41 Weeks?

Question
I'm 41 weeks pregnant and my doctor was supposed to call me today to schedule an appointment to induce labor, but I haven't received a call from him nor the nurses. How long will the doctor usually make you wait? I'm getting really frustrated, should I call the hospital were I'm due to deliver and ask questions?
Please provide input.

Answer
Dear Angela,

Many doctors are of the mind that the baby will come when it is ready to and unless there is a risk that exists to mom or baby, better to leave well enough alone. I know this can be frustrating after waiting so long only to have the baby make you wait even longer!!  :-)

You can try having sex. The cervical stimulation can sometimes start labor. Also, when you and your partner make love, his semen (which contains prostaglandins) can stimulate contractions. A moderate amount of nipple stimulation which may or may not be included in your lovemaking can also release oxytocin, which is the natural form of pitocin (the medicine used to induce labor). Don't over-do however, as this can sometimes cause fetal heart rates to decrease so you don't want to do this in excess to begin labor unless you are being monitored.

If you are having contractions but are not yet in labor, walking can help get things going. Walking allows your hips to sway side to side, which will help bring the baby into position to be born. Also, by standing upright, you're using gravity to move the baby down into the pelvis.

For decades, women have been using castor oil to help induce labor. In fact, many old school physicians and midwives swear by it. It can provide good results if you are already in early labor. It is believed to work by causing spasms in the intestines, which surround the uterus toward the end of pregnancy. These spasms, in turn, cause the uterus to cramp, which might result in labor.
You can take 1 to 4 ounces of castor oil mixed with 6 ounces of orange juice to cut its oiliness. You'll want to drink it quickly because of the unpleasant taste. Some doctors suggest taking a single dose; others suggest repeated doses depending on your response. Keep in mind that castor oil usually will cause your bowels to empty within about three hours. With luck, soon after that, you will be in true labor.

As far as calling the hospital, they are somewhat at the mercy of the doctor scheduling you unless you were to come in in actual labor. Go ahead and call your doctor's office again if you are intent on an induction. Sometimes you just have to be a thorn in their side to be noticed.

Hope this information has helped you and answered your questions. I wish you well and a joyous delivery!

Brenda