Inductions are generally scheduled in the morning, but patients may be scheduled to come in the evening.  If you are admitted in the evening, a cervical ripening agent, cervadil, may be inserted into your vagina to help ready your cervix for dilation.

 

If your induction is scheduled for the morning, you may have a light breakfast, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

 

After registration you will be directed to a labor hall room where you will change into a hospital gown.  External fetal monitors will be applied to watch the baby's heart beat and evaluate contractions.  Your vital signs (pulse and blood pressure) will be monitored every 15 mintues.  An IV will be inserted into a vein in your arm.  Fluids and pitocin (a medication used to stimulate uterine contractions) will be administered.  Your progress and condition will be closely monitored, as the goal of induction of labor is to mimic natural labor.  When you start to have regular uncomfortable contractions, occuring every five minutes, your doctor may break the bag of waters.

 

You have a variety of choices for pain relief during labor induction, similar to those offered to all women in labor.  Breathing and relaxation techniques will help you in the early stages of labor and may provide adequate pain relief for your entire labor and delivery.  Narcotic pain medications can be administered through your IV, or you may choose to have an epidural.  Epidural anesthesia will not be administered until after you are in active labor, shown by dilation of your cervix with regular, uncomfortable contractions.