Induction advice

[Baby193]

Hi everyone. Currently 38+4 with first baby. Smooth pregnancy so far except for them being a tiny bit concerned about the size of the baby (bit on the large side). I’m due on Christmas Day, they are keen to induce me on Boxing Day. I’ve been offered a sweep next week which I’ve declined as there’s no guarantee of going into labour so I didn’t see the point.
I saw my midwife a couple of days ago who told me that I wouldn’t be able to go home after being induced (for some reason I had assumed I’d be told to go home and come back in 24 hours) and to expect to be there for the long haul. I’m now feeling a bit panicky about this as the idea of being on a ward and having to share space/a bathroom etc when I could be relaxing at home is filling me with dread. I know that sounds really precious and when it comes down to it I probably won’t care, but I think the idea of that combined with all the negative things I’ve read about induction is making me feel quite panicky.
I accepted it and have been booked in, but am now wondering about cancelling. My baby’s estimated birth weight is 7.5lbs, which seems average to me (I know it’s just an estimation) so I’m confused as to why they seem so keen to induce me. I’d understand more if 9 or 10lbs!
I know I can decline the induction I’m just not sure what to do for the best. Do I go for the induction or decline it and wait for things to happen naturally after a low risk and healthy pregnancy?Does anyone have any advice? I’d really appreciate it. Thanks!

I do hate the rush to get babies out! You haven’t even reached your guesstimate date yet and, anyway , most first babies arrive soon after 41 weeks rather than at 40 weeks.
I suggest that you ask for more information about why induction is being suggested. There is no research based justification for induction simply for increased estimated fetal size (but anyway your baby sounds totally average size). I also suggest that you have a look at Sara Wickham’s website, she is a midwife and researcher and has written a great deal about induction of labour. Her stuff is really user friendly and accessible and may help you clarify what you feel is right for you.
Hope all goes well

If it was me, I'd wonder why such the rush to induce. Like you say, 7.5lbs is average! My baby is est. at 7lbs 4oz now at 39 weeks. Maybe speak to the midwife about why they don't want to wait until 10/12 days, might help with the decision whether to proceed or delay. I'm due 21st but won't be offered an induction until NYE which I am fine with, rather see if nature takes it course before intervening (esp as I've heard it can take days!) Good luck x

I had a sweep at 38 weeks then induction at 38+2.

You kinda just get on with being stuck in, I was in from 38+2 till 3 days after my emcs.

Weird how they are inducing for that size. My "wee" one was 10lb+🤣 dread to think what size he'd be at 40+ weeks.

Could you have a sweep on boxing day instead?
Yes it's not guaranteed to bring on labour but you could go home afterwards and have the induction as a back up plan if nothing happening after a couple of days?

Why haven't you asked your midwife why they want to induce so soon? Once you've got that info you can make an informed decision

So many inconsistencies across hospitals.
With my first I didn't have a sweep till after my due date passed (around 41 weeks). I was then induced at 41+6, took really well to the induction, it was literally just the extra push I needed to get labour going. Induced about 10am and in full labour by early afternoon. Born at 8lb 1oz 2 weeks late (39th centile or something)
Yes it can take time, but yes it can be quick!

I would ask why they want to induce you early if baby is still within the 7lb range as that doesn't seem too big to me?

I asked my midwife and she just said because baby is on the larger side, which is what I found so confusing. I said I was expecting a larger baby if I’m being induced and she just said that 7.5lbs will be “easy for me to push out”.
It was a bit of a rushed appointment which I was a bit disappointed about considering it was my last one but I think I’m going to call them tomorrow with a list of questions and go through it all.
Thanks for the responses!

They bloody love induction because they can control it. This seems to be so so common when there is no reason for it. I am 34 weeks and pretty big so I’m prepared for this and I will decline induction for sure.

My genuine induction advice, if you have one ever, is that if you get the drip then also get an epidural.

Meant to say - maybe opt for a sweep first once due date has arrived, then you could go for induction if that doesn't work? Good luck! Keep us posted x

I think I'd want more justification other than that size of baby. Makes no sense. Induction isn't really all that much fun for a lot of people. You can decline their offer and agree on a much later date. It's unusual to induce day after due date!

Due to ICP I was induced both times that I gave birth.

Pack lots of things to distract you such as books, colouring, magazines, puzzles, etc. For me I found that listening to audio books was a great way to escape my surroundings. Also, it was pre-pandemic, walking around helped me get exercise and discover where the best stash of Chat type magazines were. I took a manicure set and tidied my nails then buffed them. Can be fun to write letters too.

First time it took a while (induced Friday lunchtime, gave birth Monday morning) and I wished I had packed better snacks.

Second time it just took hours so there I was all set to enjoy time to myself when contractions started!

The strength of contractions is intense so don't be afraid to ask for pain relief and I recommend an epidural.

Take your own pillow as it will be fluffier and the familiarity of it can help with sleep.

If you need any more advice on inductions, just message me.