Induction booked for next Tuesday (38wk+3) - any tips on ripening cervix to make it all easier?

[fettleandminifettle]

Title says it all - i've got obstetric cholestasis again and I'm booked to be induced next week. Had an internal today and my cervix is still high and posterior (and bloody painful being checked too!!!).

I doubt there is anything, but Mumsnet always surprises me with the support and knowledge on here, so thought I'd ask the question!!. It took 3 days to break my waters when I was induced with DD for the same reason, but at 36 wks, I so want it go more smoothly this time and avoid any possibility of a C-section.

Thanks for your help
xxx

HI Fettleandminifettle,
well the good news is that it is generally easier to get someone into labour second time around, also more good news, sex and lots of it can help. Semen contains prostaglandins which can help to ripen the cervix, also we secrete oxytocin when we have sex and orgasm, oxytocin drives the uterus during labour. THere has been research done recently that found that women with the most active sex lives in late pregnancy also had less chance of going overdue. Hope this helps

sex, sex, sex, sex, sex, sex, sex, sex, more sex

i was in your position with ds2, i used clary sage in my bath and went in to be induced at 3-4cm - BUT i dont think this is recommened. ask you MW first - and possibly an aromatherapist.

cx

p.s. good luck

Thank you girls!!

DH is very pleased with your responses!!! I'll need more convincing!!

We'll give it go - at least it's a pleasurable way!!

xxx