Your guide to a more positive and informed induction experience
As soon as I mentioned I was having an induction, I was bombarded with ‘advice’ or ‘facts’ about how terrible it was going to be. There are plenty of myths and misconceptions about induction that can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety. So, let’s take a ride and bust some of these myths! Myth #1: Induction is only done when there’s a problem. Fact: While induction can be medically necessary in certain situations, such as...
One of the hardest things for me when choosing induction was the feeling that I was handing too much of my experience over to others. Would it still feel like my birth, would I still have the confidence to ask for what I wanted and needed. It’s important to feel empowered and in control of some things during this time. Advocating for yourself during labour can help others respect your needs and wishes. Here...
I remember those final week well, I was so desperate for labour to start I’d try anything to get things going! While there is no scientific evidence to back most of these methods, some have been used for centuries, and some are somewhat logical! Of course do listen to your body and don’t do anything that doesn’t feel good for you. Here are ten surprising methods that some people have tried to induce labour...
Induction of labour is a process in which contractions are artificially initiated before the onset of labour. It is a common practice that is usually carried out for medical reasons. If you are scheduled for induction of labour, it is important to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the process. Here are some tips to help you get ready: Make an Informed Choice: The most important thing you can do is to make your...
If you’re planning or considering induction, especially if you’re 40 weeks or more, one of the things you’re probably on high alert for is signs of labour! I remember Googling every tiny thing, hoping to see one of the signs! So if you’re searching “How will I know when I’m in labour?” you definitely aren’t alone! While everyone’s labour experience is unique, there are some common signs that indicate the onset of labour, and...
I remember scouring the internet for every available hospital bag list to make sure I didn’t miss anything. I felt like it was a small way to take back control of my experience. If you’re doing the same, I want to reassure you that really you need very little, but here’s our complete list with some extras for induction. (You can download a printable birth bag list here) The Admin / Essentials A copy...
The waiting time I’m referring to is the time between accepting induction and going into the appointment when they start the process. For some it’s just a short period, and induction happens straight away, but for others it’s days or even weeks. That time can be emotional. It’s normal to question your decision, to feel frustrated with your body for not going into labour, or frustrated by a medial reason you need induction. I...
Today I want to answer one of the most common questions, what do I wear in labour?! And as with many questions about birth, there’s no one right answer. In particular with induction, many people assume their only option is a hospital gown, but that’s not generally the case. The main points: 💛 Comfy – the main point, feeling comfortable is the top of the list! 💛 Washable 💛 You can move around easily 💛 Allows for...
Affirmations are an important, and I believe, often underrated, part of hypnobirthing. They are a great way to deal with fears head on. There are three main rules for affirmations, they should be positive, present tense and personal. Often the third part is neglected, I know it’s easier to listen to an affirmation track, but it’s good to reflect on whether the ones you’re working with are a good fit for you. Sometimes when...
One of the common themes that comes up in The Positive Induction Podcast is having the confidence to ask questions, but what do you ask? Here are some ideas to get you started before your induction… Why is induction recommended? What are the risks to having the induction? What are the alterative options for you? What are the options for induction locally, what procedures will be available to me? Will you be able...
Let’s be honest, induction isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind when people are thinking of their ideal birth, but in reality many of us end up here, trying to make our non-ideal scenario the best it can be. Series after series of One Born Every Minute shows endless inductions with the outcomes almost always the same; a forceps delivery or a dash to theatre. Part of the problem is that this...
There are many hospital bag lists out there, but what about induction specifically, are there things you should add that are useful for induction? Why, I’m glad you asked! Yes, there are, and here are my top six: 1. Peanut Ball – Now there’s a chance your hospital have these available but many don’t. There’s also a chance you’ve no idea what I’m talking about right now! So here’s me demonstrating using one, in one of...
