3 things you need to know about Inductions

Pregnancy

Aug 24

1: Use your BRAIN.

If you are being offered an induction of labour, use the BRAIN acronym to get all the information. There are a host of reasons that you may be offered an induction & they all have different pros & cons - the reason for recommending induction matters.

B.R.A.I.N = Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, Nothing.

What are the benefits? What are the risks? Are there any alternatives? What does your instinct/intuition tell you? What happens if you do nothing?

Take your time, make the right decision for you and your baby. If you have accepted the induction, make sure it is your choice. You are in charge.

2: Acceptance.

Very few people start their pregnancy planning to have an induction of labour - in fact for lots of you, it will be the thing you hope to avoid.

In pregnancy and birth there is a place for everything, even intervention. If you choose to accept the induction of labour, take some time to feel sad about the birth you are turning down - the homebirth or waterbirth you had planned perhaps - it is not silly to grieve for the birth you had wanted to have, especially if it is very different from the medical environment that induction of labour warrants.

If you feel disappointed or sad, your feelings are valid. But put a deadline down, move on with acceptance and positivity about this new course of action that you have chosen. Believe that you can still have an incredible birth.

3: Plan.

Birth plans are definitely not just for homebirths. If you choose to move forward with an induction of labour, you need those hypnobirthing skills more than ever. Never underestimate how much you can change your birth environment, and how much the environment can impact on your labour - EVEN with a induction of labour.

Consider your five senses and make sure that you meet them all with something that brings you comfort and relaxation. This may be more work in a clinical environment but is so worth it! Birth partners; this is your job!

Fully understand the process of the induction, consider how you will remain mobile, UFO positions are still possible. Focus on the things that you can control - which elements of your former plan can you still use, and which can be modified?

No matter what birth you're planning - inductions (and caesareans!) included - our Hypnobirthing Pack will help you prepare for your birth, giving you the knowledge and tools you need to make it an empowering and positive experience. Find out more and sign up here: https://thepositivebirthcompany.co.uk/digital-pack

Written by Senior NHS Midwife, Hannah O’Sullivan

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