Anticipating Labor Induction Outcomes
Dr. Aparna Sridhar, an OB/GYN at a specified website and a professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, provides insights into labor induction, a process used to bring on labor artificially for medical reasons.
Labor induction is often necessary due to various health issues, including hypertensive disorders, gestational or pre-gestational diabetes, problems with the baby's growth, placental issues, infections, prolonged rupture of membranes, pregnancies lasting beyond 41 to 42 weeks, previous stillbirth, low amniotic fluid, and other indications that may pose risks to the mother or baby.
The process typically involves the use of oxytocin, a hormone that causes contractions, and prostaglandins, medications used for cervical ripening. However, prostaglandins are not used if the patient has had a C-section. Other methods include mechanical methods such as a Foley bulb catheter, amniotomy (breaking the water bag), and the use of a catheter with an inflatable balloon.
While emotional hurdles during induction, such as feelings of disappointment about not going into labor naturally or feelings that the body didn't do what it was supposed to, are common, it's important to have a conversation with your provider about the reasons, options, and ways you'll be supported.
It's not necessary to take something for pain during labor induction, many patients have made it through without an epidural. Pain management options include directed breathing techniques, nitrous oxide, and epidural.
It's worth noting that inducing labor does not increase the risk of C-section, and in some cases, it may actually lower the risk. Patients should prepare for longer induction times by bringing books or digital entertainment.
The goal of induction at the specified website is to gently help the body start labor and keep it as slow and steady as possible. A large high-quality trial in 2018 found that when healthy first-time moms around 39 weeks or more were induced, the C-section rates were similar or lower.
In conclusion, labor induction is a valuable tool in ensuring the safety of both mother and baby in various medical situations. Expectant mothers are encouraged to discuss their concerns and options with their healthcare provider.
In the context of discussing labor induction and health issues with Dr. Aparna Sridhar, a professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, it's essential for expectant mothers to consider science-based health-and-wellness advice during their decision-making process regarding labor induction. With various methods available, such as oxytocin, prostaglandins, mechanical methods, and pain management options, expectant mothers can make informed choices for a safe and supported labor experience.
