Induction Concerns: Cervix Not Dilated & Desire for Natural Birth

Question
Hi,
  Iam 31 years old. First pregnancy. May 10 2004 was my due date.Before Doctor told me I will be induced the same day. But later changed the mind and told me to wait till 14th of May[ if I get any labor pain that is the best].I don't have any contractions and my cervix is not open.She told me that if my cervix is  opened or not she will sent me to hospital on 13 th of May.I need a normal delivery. no c-section. Is that possible if they induced me if the cervix is not open to have a normal delivery.
   Thankyou

Answer
Hello Sonia. Your cervix must be soft and ripe before it will start to dilate(open). An induction will not be successful if your cervix is not ripe. Your dr will likely want to rupture your membranes in trying to get you to dilate- if that is done you must deliver in the next 24 hours to protect the baby from infection. Therefore, if the induction does not work, you will need a section. You have the right to refuse ANY of these procedures- induction, rupture of the membranes AND the section. If your due date is May 10, it is safe to wait until May 24th for labor - as long as you are healthy. Don't be pushed into doing anything earlier than that. Meantime, you can have lots of intercourse- it helps to ripen the cervix and stimulate your nipples as you relax during the evening- it also helps to ripen the cervix.Do this for a couple of hours each evening- twirl your nipples gently for a full minute every five minutes for 2 hours. Drink LOTS of raspberry LEAF tea- as much as you want- it helps to tone your uterine muscles. Hope that helps- Cheri.