Methods for Inducing Labour
There are various methods for inducing labour. The intensity of pain may be dependent on the method chosen to induce labor. However, you may not have a choice picking the method as your doctor will be the one selecting depending on how further you are in the labour process. Some methods are:
To control pain during an induced labour, if relaxation and breathing techniques are not enough, you can ask for pain relief medications.
- Sweeping the Amniotic Membrane: In this method, your doctor inserts a finger into the vagina past the cervix and then rotates it to separate the amniotic sac from the wall of your uterus. The technique may be a little painful but it just takes a minute or so. You may experience some intense cramping and spotting for the next day or two. Contact your doctor if bleeding becomes heavier than a normal menstrual period(Codes to be updated).
- Cervix Ripening: Sometimes, medications called synthetic prostaglandins, which can be taken by mouth or placed inside the vagina, are used to dilate the cervix to prepare it for labour. This method might also result in strong cramping.
- Break Your Water: If your doctor finds that your cervix is already partially dilated, he/she can break your water.
- Encourage the Start of Contractions: This is done by giving an injection of a synthetic version of oxytocin (a hormone that causes the uterus to contract). This is administered if your cervix has already begun to dilate but labour is not progressing. Oxytocin might result in really strong contractions. You can ask your doctor for pain relief medications. Oxytocin can also cause stomach upset, so follow your doctor’s advice about what to eat before you go to the hospital. Alternatively, you can include light food such as soups, etc.
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