Will I need to get induced?

[RabbyMac]

Hi all, just had an interim (private scan) at 30 weeks and on the growth projection chart it is estimated that my baby could be over 9lb in weight by the time of my due date. My midwife has suggested that a possible induction at around 37 weeks when my baby is slightly smaller might be beneficial rather than waiting for full term. Does this sound about right with people?

Have a read of Sara Wickham ‘in your own time’ or ‘why induction matters’ by Rachel
Reed.

Growth scans are notoriously inaccurate and I would want to weigh up pros/cons of waiting vs inducing before accepting an early induction.

I wouldn't do it. Not on the basis of a growth scan - they're so inaccurate. Also, some people birth bug babies, some small.

They estimated between 9 and 10lb, so 9 was the lower estimate!

I understand, but you could still end up with a 7-8lbs baby, they are wildly inaccurate.

Even so a 9-10lbs baby is not huge and certainly not worth the potential distress of an induction for both you and the baby.

Inductions have risks.

Has your midwife referred you to a consultant?

Not yet, but should I ask for this?

Having a bigger baby isn't necessary bad or a worse Labour. The risk is baby getting stuck but the risk increases at 10lb plus or more (it's still low).
There is nothing wrong or huge about a 9lb baby - My babies were 8lb (38 weeks) and 9lb (39 weeks) and I had super quick and easy labours. So unless baby is looking a lot bigger then personally I wouldn't do anything.

Are you due anymore NHS scans? Our trust does a standard 36w scan and generally that one is used to discuss any growth concerns (big or small). For example, with my eldest, that scan showed she had dropped below the 10th centile so induction was discussed (not needed in the end as she came naturally at 38w and weighed within 2oz of her predicted weight). I think I would want someone on the hospital team to review and advise before making any decisions.

Sorry just got back on.

Ask for an NHS scan but don't expect one until you are around 36 weeks.

As the two PPs have pointed out there should be protocols that your midwife should be following to work out whether your labour needs intervention or not. This is because any intervention would involve an obstetrician overseeing the birth so you won't be midwife led.

Do your research! And make your own informed decision. Growth scans are very inaccurate. And for me, I would avoid induction at all costs. But, it's your decision and only you know what's best. People birth 'big' babies all the bloody time with no complications, not sure why you would need to be induced. Smaller baby doesn't mean an easier birth in the slightest so it's a stupid suggestion, in my opinion.
I would strongly recommend, if you haven't already, doing some hypnobirthing courses. They are fantastic at helping you understand YOUR choices, options and decision surrounding birth.
You can find online digital hypobirthing courses.

A possible big baby is not a medical reason.
Induction can be smooth, or hard. You won’t know until it starts what it will be like for you.
Personally unless I was given a medical reason, I would steer clear of induction and push for natural.