Induction hand hold/advice

[tm123x]

Hi all,

im due to be induced on Friday at 39 weeks due to baby measuring small. I have really really struggled with my mental health this pregnancy and my health anxiety is awful I’m crying every day at the thought of how I will cope for days on end in hospital.

this is my 4th birth, my first being induced. My last birth 19 months ago was only 2hrs so I’m hoping this one follows suit - does anyone know if I’m more likely to go quicker on the induction as I’ve had 3 previous births? I am due for a sweep tomorrow so I’m hoping that kicks starts things - I’ve been having cramps for weeks and all the usual clear out symptoms and my midwife told me last week I’ve dropped. My previous two sweeps worked within 12 hours so I’m holding out a lot of hope!

Anyone who has been induced please can you fill me with your positive stories? I really don’t think I’ll cope for days in hospital without seeing the children, I’m a bit of a mess with it all really.

I was induced wit my DD2 at 37 weeks after my waters leaked at 34 weeks. DD1 was a spontaneous vaginal birth, 24 hour labour.

When I first went in and they examined me I wasn't dilated at all. I was giving the internal gel (no pessary option if waters have broken) which started contractions literally immediately. DD was born 11 hours later. I didn't need any other drugs but they did break the rest of my waters which were in front of DD's head after about 9 hours.

Honestly it was very very similar to my first birth, just quicker. Contractions started slow and less painful and then built up, it just went quicker overall.

I was terrified as well, and obviously my experience is just one anecdote, but it was really really fine.
And I do think that having given birth three times before stands you in good stead.
But if you're really distressed by the thought of it, would it help to ask for a c section? Or would that be more worrying for you?

Thanks for this I really appreciate it. Sounds like a positive experience overall! Oh yes a c-section is a big fear of mine, I don’t have much help either so it would be incredibly tough recovery wise.