Are You Considering Induction, a Cesarean Section, or VBAC?
First of all, there are times when it is medically necessary to induce labor or perform a cesarean section. It is important for you to discuss the risks the and benefits of each with your care provider.
Henci Goer, author of The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth, has many articles about the risks involved in inductions, c-sections, and VBACs. You may be faced with one of these options and your decision should be an informed one. If you are concerned about these risks and interested in her articles, click here http://www.hencigoer.com/articles/
If you are considering an induction, be sure to ask your care provider what your Bishop Score is. A Bishop Score for Induction is a table used to determine how successful an induction of labor may be. A score of 9 is ideal.
| Factor |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
| Dilation (cm) |
0 |
1-2 |
3-4 |
5-6 |
| Effacement (%) |
0-30% |
40-50% |
60-70% |
80% |
| Station |
-3 |
-2 |
-1 or 0 |
+1 or +2 |
| Consistency |
Firm |
Medium |
Soft |
|
| Position |
Posterior |
Mid |
Anterior |
|
| For example, if you were: |
Dilated 1 centimeter |
1 point |
| |
50% effaced |
1 point |
| |
At a -3 station |
0 points |
| |
Cervix is soft |
2 points |
| |
Cervix is Mid |
1 point |
| Your Bishop Score would be: |
5 |
If your score is 4 or less, the likelihood of a successful induction is low. Remember, 9 is ideal.
A wise doula once told me, “If they have to ripen your cervix, you’re NOT ready.” It will be to your benefit if your cervix is starting to dilate before induction.
Be sure to ask your care provider what the next step will be if your induction happens to fail. Will you be allowed to go home? Will you have to have a cesarean section? Before having an induction, you need to decide how far you’re willing to go. Be informed! I share these things with you simply because nobody shared them with me when I was pregnant. |
