Elective labor induction is a common process. This, if done correctly, can help avoid pregnancy complications and could result in a faster delivery too. You must be careful of a few things before induction of labor. There are many ways to induce. The most common one is using the hormone oxytocin to start uterine contractions and, as the labor progresses, having a cesarean delivery.
Most healthcare providers say that you must not have any food once you feel contractions. There are a few kinds of food that can help induce labor. The best foods are those easy to digest and will pack a lot of energy. If you have an elective induction, you must listen to your doctor and follow the medical guidelines to ensure healthy delivery and avoid any complications.
What To Eat Before Your Labor Induction?
If you’re booked for labor induction, you should think about what to eat ahead of time. Having a small, nutritious meal will help you maintain your stamina and avoid nausea during the induction phase.
Some good options include:
- Foods that are rich in protein, such as tofu, eggs, or chicken. These should allow you to keep your energy levels up during the tiring delivery.
- Carbohydrates like quinoa, rice, and sweet potatoes. These are also excellent sources of energy.
- Foods that are rich in fiber. These will help lower the chances of constipation during labor. Whole grains, vegetables, and fruits are good options.
Stay hydrated at all times, so keep drinking water to avoid any inconvenience. Avoid carbonated and sugary drinks because they can dehydrate you.
Make sure to also avoid spicy meals and don’t go heavy on eating. Both these things can cause stomach pain or heartburn. Additionally, don’t consume anything that will cause bloating or gas. Have a light meal and consult your doctor about what you can or should eat before your induction procedure.
Should I Shower Before Induction?
Showering before labor induction is a matter of personal preference, and there is no good or bad approach. Many women choose not to shower because they know that they will be sweaty during the delivery process, while some do prefer taking a relaxing shower to feel clean before inducing labor.
If you want to shower before induction, you must keep a few things in mind:
Stay away from scents
Do not use any scented soaps, lotions, creams, body washes, or shampoos; just no scented products. These scents and fragrances can irritate your skin and can even cause problems during the induction.
No hot water
Do not use hot water or have a steam bath. This can increase your body temperature, which can be bad for both you and the baby. Taking a cold shower will be a much safer option. If cold showers aren’t your cup of tea, lukewarm water is also a good option.
Discussion
Showering and other personal care practices should be discussed with your healthcare professional if you’re experiencing any medical issues or difficulties. After assessing your medical history and personal needs, they may suggest better and safer alternatives.
Showering before labor induction is ultimately a personal preference. When deciding whether to shower or not, keep your personal comfort and preferences in mind, in addition to any possible medical problems.
How Do I Prepare To Be Induced?
Preparing for labor induction involves a few key steps to help ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Here are some tips:
Keep yourself informed
Discuss the induction procedure and what to expect with your healthcare practitioner. This will alleviate any nervousness you may have.
Rest
Because induction can be a long and tiresome procedure, it’s important to be well-rested beforehand. Get a restful sleep the night before, and take naps as required in the mornings before induction.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated during labor can lower the chance of problems. Drink lots of water on the days before the induction.
Pack your bags
Make absolutely sure you have all of your essentials packed and ready to drive to the hospital, such as a comfortable change of clothing, toiletries, and whatever other items you may want throughout your stay.
Take your comfort into account
Consider bringing a favorite cushion or comforter, enjoying a relaxing playlist, or practicing calming techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation to keep yourself more comfortable throughout labor.
Have a caretaker
Having a spouse, friend, or family member by your side throughout labor may give emotional support and make you feel more at ease.
Follow any additional instructions
Your healthcare practitioner may give you special instructions before induction, like avoiding specific foods or medicines. Be sure you follow them.
What Positions Help You Dilate?
The main focus during labor is to stretch and thin down the cervix so that the baby can exit through the vaginal canal. Some postures may induce dilatation by using gravitation:
- Having to stand, move, or tilt forward in a standing posture might help with dilation because of gravity. These postures can also reduce cervix pressure, allowing it to open. They can also assist with widening the pelvis, creating more space for the baby to come out.
- Having to sit or squat can also promote the loosening of the pelvis and induce dilatation. Sitting down or lying on a birthing ball helps lessen back discomfort, so much so that you might not need as much pain medication as you would in normal lying-down delivery. These postures can also help the baby travel through the birth canal more easily, lowering the chance of problems.
- Another posture that can assist in enhancing blood flow to the uterus and induce dilatation is side-lying. This posture might also be more relaxing for those who have bad back pain. It’s crucial to remember that using pillows or other cushions might help you keep this position and feel comfortable.
- Moving back and forth or from side to side during labor can help ease pain and discomfort while also encouraging dilation. This movement can also loosen the pelvic muscles, allowing the baby to go down more easily.
Besides postures, other variables that may aid in dilation include being hydrated, becoming calm and relaxed, and employing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Working with your healthcare practitioner to determine the most suitable postures and procedures for your specific requirements and circumstances is important.
Ultimately, while no position is certain to make you dilate faster during labor, some postures might prove to be more comfortable or helpful than others. Listening to your body and adjusting your postures as required is a must.
What Should I Pack For Induction?
While preparing for your induction, include essentials that will make you feel at ease and comfortable for your hospital stay. Here are some things to think about packing:
- Bring loose-fitting clothing that is simple to move in and easy to take on and off throughout labor and recovery. If you want to nurse, bring a nursing bra or tube top.
- Have a toothbrush, mouthwash, shampoo, moisturizer, soap, and other personal grooming supplies with you. Don’t forget hair ties, makeup wipes, and body lotion.
- Since labor may be a lengthy and arduous process, bring nutritious snacks like fruit, almonds, or granola bars to keep your energy levels up. Carry some candy or lozenges to prevent your mouth from drying out because it is possible that your doctor will not allow you to drink anything.
- Pack books, newspapers, movies, or other forms of entertainment to serve as distractions during labor and recovery.
- If you intend to utilize a birthing ball while in labor, bring one with you. Although many hospitals have them, having your own can bring additional convenience and familiarity.
- Many hospital pillows and blankets aren’t often the comfiest, so bring your own. A recognizable pillow or blanket might bring comfort and make you feel more at ease.
- Be sure to bring your camera or video recorder if you’re hoping to capture the beautiful first moments of your child.
- Make sure to carry any important documents. Bring your insurance card and ID, as well as any hospital papers you may need.
- Put together a bag for your spouse or caretaker containing clothing, toiletries, and any diversion or comfort things they may require.
Overall, packing a hospital bag for induction can be very helpful and stress-reducing. Include necessities as well as anything else that will allow you to feel more calm and ready for your baby’s arrival.
Can You Go to the Bathroom During Induction?
Yes, using the bathroom while in induction is usually safe and even recommended sometimes. Also, drinking plenty of water and draining your bladder on a continuous basis can assist in enhancing labor progress and avoiding difficulties.
It is necessary to notify your healthcare physician if you have trouble urinating or suffer any discomfort or pain when peeing. This might indicate a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or other problems.
If you can’t pee on your own, your healthcare professional may install a catheter. This is a common technique that is usually performed using sterile procedures to avoid infection.
All through the induction process, it is necessary to speak with your healthcare professional and inquire about any issues or express any worries you may have. They may advise you on when and how frequently to use the restroom, as well as keep you comfortable and safe during the procedure.
Using the restroom during induction is a natural and important aspect of the procedure. Maintain hydration and talk with your healthcare practitioner to ensure that you are caring for your body and having a safe and healthy birth.
What Not To Do Before Being Induced?
Being induced can be an overwhelming and stressful experience, and there are certain things you should avoid doing to help ensure safe and successful delivery. Here are some things to avoid before being induced:
- Don’t overeat or overdrink: Your healthcare provider may suggest fasting before induction in some circumstances to avoid issues such as vomiting or choking during delivery. It’s important to strictly observe their recommendations and not eat or drink too much before your planned induction.
- Don’t skip prescriptions: If you’re taking meds for a chronic illness, ensure that you’re taking them as directed. Nonetheless, it is important to tell your healthcare professional about this since some might have to be changed or stopped before induction.
- Minimize vigorous physical activity: In the days prior to your induction, avoid vigorous exercise that might tire you out or start a spontaneous labor. Rest and relaxation should be your first priority.
- Do not ignore signs of labor: It’s crucial not to ignore signs of labor such as contractions, back pain, or vaginal bleeding. If you experience even one of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately and inform them about what you are experiencing.
- Do not stress: Stress can be harmful to both you and your baby, so it’s essential to take care of yourself emotionally during the induction process. Use mindfulness techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to manage stress and anxiety.
- Do not think twice before asking questions: If you ever have any questions or worries about your induction, do not hesitate to ask your healthcare provider. They will provide complete guidance and full support throughout the process and will do their best to help ensure a safe and successful delivery.
Bottom Line:
Scheduled induction can feel intimidating, but this can be a much better option for many women. It is sometimes necessary for medical reasons like a late due date or too much pain. Some might choose it because they don’t want to wait. Either way, the doctors will help a pregnant woman form a good birth plan. All women, especially first-time moms, must listen to their doctors to avoid any potential risks and have a pleasant birth experience.
