Induction process

[Kellym25]

I'm being induced with a balloon on Friday and I've seen the midwife today and they explained what happens. She said that it can take 5 days for the induction process.

They said that I'd come in, get examined, trace of baby done and then they'd try to put the balloon in. That stays in for 24 hours. I should be allowed to go home. Then come back and have it out, examined again to see if they can break my waters. If they can then I'd be put on a list and that can take 2-3 days to get my waters broken. Again I should be allowed home. Then once they break my waters, they'll get me to walk around for a bit and if it doesn't progress they'll put the oxytocin drip in and that can take 1-24 hours to work. She said that at any point I can ask them to stop and have a c section.

Has anyone else experienced a balloon induction with their 1st baby and if so did it take 5 days?

I had a pessary induction. It didn’t take 5 days for me but some inductions can take 5 days. It just depends on if your body and baby cooperate. What I did was pack 3 hospital bags with 2-3 days clothes in each. You’re limited on space in the hospital so keep the other bags in the car. I made the mistake of doing one bag with just my clothes, not babies and induction was quicker than expected. I would put some of baby’s clothes and nappies in each bag and have a small delivery bag that moves between the 3 bigger bags. Take something to entertain you for a few days. Definitely go for a walk when you can, that started things going for me.

Hi @Kellym25
I did hun, i had the balloon done in the evening, sent home, told to come back at 6am. They came through out the day to see how i was getting on then in the evening took the balloon out. I had dialated quite well but there were no labour beds available for 2 days. Once they had a bed they had to break my waters, i was on oxytocin and had an epidural. 18 hours still no baby!! I then went for an emergency c section. Omg i still remember it like it was yesterday lol!! All the best with your labour hun, seeing baby is the best moment ever! xx