Hi 1st time mum2be

I'm a first time mum too and I found out at 18w that I will be induced at about 37w.
So I've had lots of time to think about, ask about and research inductions. The most helpful thing though was speaking to a midwife at John Hunter Hospital where I am to deliver and she gave me the run down of their normal procedures for induction. I know that things may vary somewhat but it was reasurring to learn the general gist of things.

Depending on how ripe your cervix is they may need to ripen it for you first in the way of Prostin Gel. (Seeing you are close to term you may well be 'ripe' already though. They do a test beforehand called the bishops test to tell how ripe you are).

An alternative to the prostin gel (and its risk of effects as outlined by Alan) is Cervadil, which is what they use at JHH. Cervadil is a papery mesh thing with a string which they wrap around your cervix and it releases the meds. It can be left in for 12 hours but can be pulled out at anytime with the string should it start to work too well or cause undesirable effects. This is the main difference from the gel, which, once it's in it's in. Try and find out what your hospital uses.

At JHH, when your cervix is favourable they break your waters and starts the drip. In the Birth Plan article here in BB there are some great ideas to add to your birth plan about the use of the drip. For example, having it turned down once labour is established. Be sure to take a look as it is fantastic.

All the best to you, I know you read and hear alot of comments about being induced, ie. 'dont do it' but just remember that the safe arrival of your bub is the most important thing. Each situation is unique and sometimes totally out of ones hands, like in my case. I don't mind all the intervention (I don't know any different!) or even a c-s, so long as my baby arrives safe and sound.

Love August