Some health conditions require medical labor induction. It is, however, alarming that today labor induction is becoming a norm. It is essential that the potential risks to the mother and the baby are cautiously considered before medical labor induction. Natural labor inducing remedies, such as safe and effective maternity acupressure method, could be beneficial in case labor induction is necessary.
Medical labor inductions have recently become a standard procedure in many hospitals. It is shocking that today, as many as 1 in 5 labors are medically induced. Naturally, there are some pre-existing medical conditions that require concluding the pregnancy, even before the due date. In some cases, the baby may have a congenital condition which requires special medical attention. Labor induction may be necessary also if the amniotic membranes have broken, but the labor has not started within two days or the mother has a serious infection, diabetes or high blood pressure. In these cases, medical induction in a highly controlled environment may be necessary. It's, however, important to carefully consider the potential risks as compared to the benefits that labor induction may have to the mother or the baby.
Before medical labor induction, the mother's cervix and pelvic are examined and the baby's presentation and size are estimated. Based on these examinations, doctors decide which methods of labor induction and labor inducers are used, and evaluate the need for repeat induction or cesarean delivery.
If the cervix is not ripe, mechanical dilation methods will be used before the medical labor induction, with the intention to make the cervix more favorable for labor. These medical methods include osmotic and hygroscopic dilators, Atad Ripener Device, and the Foley catheter. Administration of synthetic prostaglandins into the vagina, in the form of gel or insert, could also be used in order to help the cervix to ripen before medical labor induction. When necessary, the medical ripening of the cervix is usually started in the evening and continued through the night.
To start labor contractions, the uterus is stimulated with synthetic drugs such as Oxytocin, Misoprostol or Mifepristone. These medicines are administrated through an intravenous (IV) catheter placed in one's hand or arm, or orally as tablets. As sensitivity to these medicines, and the timeframe in which the drugs work, differ from an expectant mother to another, correct administration of the labor inducing drugs can be challenging. Due to the fact that medication used for cervical ripening and labor induction can cause complications, continuous monitoring of fetal heart rate and uterine activity is compulsory during the induction and labor.
The biggest, and probably the most frustrating, risk of labor induction is that it takes days for the labor to start or it doesn't work at all. If you are having a labor induction for your first birth, the risks are typically greater. Medical studies have found that compared to mothers who start labor naturally, labor induction at least doubles the risk of the cesarean birth (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, April 2005). If the cervix is not ripe, the chances for cesarean birth are even higher. Medical labor induction also tends to lead to longer labor and increases the use of vacuum or high forceps for delivery.
Medical labor induction could be very stressful, thus, it's recommended to encourage labor to start naturally using well-known and safe remedies, such as maternity acupressure method. Stimulation of specific acupressure points helps the cervix to ripen and the baby to engage. Some other acupoints stimulate labor contractions. What is wonderful is that maternity acupressure doesn't overstimulate the womb and it's easy to use because acupressure is simply applying pressure on specific pressure points along your body. With basic instructions you can use it safely at home to encourage the labor to start naturally.
How to Start Labor Naturally When Anything Doesn't Work?
When pregnancy is past the 40 week due date, you may be looking at how to start labor naturally. Medical induction or acupuncture are common suggestions. However, Acupressure is a more comfortable choice. Maternity Acupressure can naturally start labor and does not come with the negative side effects or needles. It is no surprise it is gaining popularity to naturally start labor.
Are You Planning to Have Accupuncture to Induce Labor?
Accupuncture has been used for many years by pregnant women; however, maternity accupressure is as effective with out the needles. Accupressure points to start labor are similar to those used in accupuncture and can be done safely at home by yourself or your partner. Using accupressure to induce labor naturally is a safe alternative to chemically inducing labor or the use of accupuncture needles.
Amazing but True: Childbirth could be Easier and Shorter with Maternity Acupressure
Childbirth causes anxiety and fear for labor and delivery. This tension can make normal labor and delivery take longer. Maternity Acupressure is a natural childbirth technique used to relax the body. These methods, which can be done by the mother or partner, may shorten the labor and delivery while relieving tension.
