Induction at 39 weeks for RFM?

[Lalarara10]

Today I went into hospital after noticing a reduction in the number and strength of baby’s movement - I’m 39 weeks today.

all was fine on the monitor and the movements resumed as normal while we were there. they now have a policy at my hospital where they will offer induction at 39 weeks for RFM. My instant reaction was to decline and say if it happened again I’d come back in and go ahead with the induction. Now I’m wondering if I should be taking it up and going down the induction route even just after one period of RFM? Has anyone been in a similar situation? I feel like I should just do it because there is a slightly higher risk of still birth and it’s not worth that but equally 39 weeks feels early and there are no other risks at play.

It is fairly routine to offer induction at term for RFM. They have to act on balance of probabilities and even with every test under the sun, unfortunately bad outcomes still do happen. No one can say 100% that everything is OK. They really do trust your instinct when it comes to RFM as there's no better assessment of fetal movements. So, in the grand scheme an induction is better than a poorly baby. Obviously I am not saying that is the case, and it is very black and white, but that is the way it has to be viewed medically. Some women will decline and some will go ahead, but I'm of the opinion that it's absolutely not something that anyone other than your care team can advise you on. It's something that you have to come to a decision on yourself with how you're feeling now, FM overall, and the facts from your care team. Best of luck OP, baby is coming soon one way or another🥰

Oh that's so tough. I was induced for reduced movements but was further along than you. I think it depends how anxious you are and if you'll be worrying from now until baby is here, only you can make that call. I'd probably go for the induction personally just for peace of mind (and that's said with mine being a failed induction!) good luck whatever you decide x

I was listed for induction at 39 weeks due to recurrent RFM. The risk of stillbirth does increase but they explained it's overall still very small. It was very busy when I gave birth so I waited 5 days for a space for induction and then went into labour naturally.

I don't think your decision is unreasonable at all. It's policy to offer the induction with reduced fetal movements at that point, but if baby is moving well now and you're otherwise happy I think I'd go with your gut on this one.

IOL for one episode of RFM is not standard at all units.

As PP I think no one can advise you apart from your team. I think it is good advice to consider whether you are otherwise low risk and also to consider the factors that can come into play with IOL - ultimately the cascade of intervention leading to assisted birth/ CS.

Wishing you well OP.

Thanks all - I agree it’s such a personal decision and no one can tell me what to do, that’s what I’m struggling with! I’ve been happy with movements since getting back but at the first sign of anything again I’ll go in and take them up on the induction I think!