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Inductions Explained: Empowering You for the Journey Ahead

Writer's picture: Courtney Courtney

Updated: Jan 15


 


How are you Feeling About Inductions?

If you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy, you might have started hearing a lot about inductions. Maybe it’s popping up on your social media feed, coming up in conversations with friends or family, or even being mentioned by your provider at appointments.


Induction can bring up a lot of opinions and emotions, and it’s totally normal to feel unsure about it. Whether you’re considering an induction or just want to be informed, it’s important to understand what it is, why it might be needed, and what to expect.


What Is Induction?

An induction is a way to help start labor. In the U.S., about 27% of pregnant people are induced, according to the CDC. To put that into perspective, that’s nearly 3 out of 10 pregnancies.

Inductions can happen for many reasons. Some are medical, such as:

  • High blood pressure issues (like Gestational Hypertension or Preeclampsia).

  • Gestational Diabetes (high blood sugar during pregnancy).

  • Placenta problems or concerns about the baby’s growth (e.g., if the baby is measuring small for their gestational age).

Others might choose induction for personal reasons—like managing childcare, work schedules, or feeling ready to end a particularly uncomfortable pregnancy. These are called elective inductions.

No matter the reason, understanding the process can help you feel more prepared and in control.


What Happens During an Induction?

Because we’re essentially encouraging your body to start labor before it’s fully ready, inductions can take time. I like to describe it in three stages, especially if this is your first baby.


Stage 1: Getting Your Body Ready for Labor

This is usually the longest stage and focuses on softening your cervix.

Think of your cervix like your forehead—firm and closed at first. To start labor, it needs to soften and open. In the hospital, this can be done with medication (placed vaginally or taken orally) or a device like a cervical ripening balloon.

This process can take anywhere from 4 hours to 24+ hours, so it’s a great time to settle in and focus on rest. You’re not tied to the bed, so if you feel up to it, try some gentle movement. Also, ask your provider if it’s okay to eat or drink—your body needs fuel for the work ahead.


Stage 2: Getting Contractions Going

Once your cervix is soft, the next step is to encourage contractions. This is often done with:

  • Pitocin, a medication that helps your uterus contract.

  • Breaking your water (rupturing the membranes).

Contractions help your cervix open and your baby move down, but this part can also take some time. Movement, like walking or using a birthing ball, can help keep things progressing.

Remember, you have options during this stage. For example:

  • You can ask to go up on Pitocin at a slower rate if contractions feel too intense to quickly.

  • You can delay breaking your water until later in the process.

The key is knowing the benefits and risks of each option and choosing what feels right for you.


Stage 3: Laboring and Baby’s Descent

Now your body is in full labor mode! Your baby is working hard too—rotating and moving down through your pelvis.

This stage can take time, but there are ways to help things along. Movement is your best friend—changing positions, using a birthing ball, or even swaying can create space for your baby. Relaxing your body is also crucial, as tension can make labor harder. Creating a space that you feel safe and supported is also key.

When you work with your body, you’ll find your rhythm and move closer to meeting your baby.



Final Thoughts

Inductions can feel overwhelming, but they can also be a relief. However you feel about the process, remember this: you always have choices.

Ask questions, understand your options, and tailor your induction to what works best for you and your baby. You’ve got this!


Love,

Courtney


How Do You Feel About Inductions?

  • I like the idea of an Inductions

  • I would rather wait for my body to go into labor

  • I don't feel strongly, one way or the other



*If you are scheduled for an induction and would like to go in with you body as prepared as you can be, check out Aligned at Birth: Induction Package. This is 2 sessions in one sitting to work on exercises to prepare you body for labor and tips and tricks to help you in labor.




*If you would like a more individualized and in depth conversation around inductions check out our Labor and Birth Consultation





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