40+1, Sweep #3 Today

[Lelu2021]

Due with DC#2.

Requested Sweeps #1 39+3, #2 39+7, #3 today 40+1.

Since my first consultation they have recommended induction with the dilapan rods months ago! Why are the NHS so keen on inducing when I am a perfectly healthy individual with no issues during my pregnancy?
I thought there were reduced fetal movements but after constant monitoring and an ultrasound they have confirmed everything is fine. I might just not be paying close enough attention having to chase after my 29m old toddler?

Induction failed at 42+2 with last pregnancy ending in emergency csection, which I am ultimately trying to avoid (avoiding a csection, wanting a vaginal birth, that is.)

Seems like with my track record induction doesn't work but after re-reading all the NICE guidelines there is a 76% chance of vaginal birth at 41 weeks of induction, less than 1% chance of caesarean. Figures which are reassuring... but could also just fail again resulting in another csection which I don't want.
I could just avoid all medical intervention and induction and opt for monitoring.

Just want to hear about other similar stories or advice here please!

Honestly in your situation I would just pick a date I wasn't comfortable to go past and say if you've not given birth spontaneously by then, then go straight to c section. 3 sweeps by 40+1 seems a lot when up to 42 weeks is a perfectly normal gestation. clearly your body and baby aren't ready yet!

There’s loads of info here but you might find it easier to scroll to the bit directly relevant to you (VBAC) https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-on-inducing-labor-for-going-past-your-due-date/

Sending you birthy vibes, I’m nearly 41 weeks with my second and not convinced baby is coming any time soon… first was 40 weeks!

Honestly this pregnancy is not the least bit inconvenient TBH so I am thankful - normal pains here and there. Anxiety mostly from waiting around AGAIN but I don't mind waiting around, so long as the baby and myself are safe! I want a "natural" birth. The last csection recovery time was awful and I was left traumatised and I also feel induction was not clearly explained to me last time... the fact it could fail!

Hi there, I am a registered midwife working on the labour ward. In my Trust VBAC ladies are routinely induced at 40 weeks. I heard it's because of the evidence there is increased risk of stillbirth after a CS. Half of bereaved parents noticed reduced baby movements before stillbirth. Continous fetal monitoring and a baby well being scan give doctors a snap shot of the baby wellbeing at that moment in time, they don't have predictive power. In my professional practice I always tell parents that how long a woman's labour is going and labour outcome depends on a size and position of the baby and size and shape of a woman's pelvis so combinations are endless (also bearing in mind that babies change position in labour all the time). I understand you want to avoid as much as possible intervention and possibly another CS. However I would listen very carefully to what doctors are saying. Inducing at 40+1 sounds like a sensible option to me. You can maximise your chances by trying to mobilise as much as muchas can. I hope it helps