Late babies… any tips?
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I’m 40+2 and having a second sweep today as first one didn’t do anything. I’ve just been doing lots of walking and bouncing on gym ball which I think it’s helping because I’m getting some contractions but just not progressing and they fizzle out
@Kaylee how are you using the oils?
Nipple stimulation/colostrum harvesting can apparently help if you're able to. But I'm 40+3 and nothing working here either! Best thing to do is to balance being active and walking but also relaxing, which is easier said than done! I know that melatonin also plays a part in labour, and I've noticed I do have some low level cramping in the evenings, so focus on your evenings being calm, dim lighting, baths etc. Essentially though baby will arrive when they are ready and while there's stuff to do to help, I'm trying to reframe it as a special time with me and baby where we won't ever be together like this again, so talking a lot to her and just relishing these moments. In terms of induction, make sure that your team thoroughly discuss the risks, pros and cons with you. Induction is a choice you make, but it's really important that the consent is informed and the medical team should lay this out clearly for you. There is no "they won't let me go past x weeks..." - It is always your choice to make, either way.
Whatever room I'm in, I have a diffuser going with a few drops of the oil in, then when I'm on the ball I have a tissue with few drops on to smell, then at bed time when I use my stretch mark oil I add a few drops to it. Been a week now but midwife did tell me it won't help unless your bodies ready.
Also want to make clear. I'm absolutely NOT anti induction. It is absolutely the right decision sometimes for so many different reasons. I just see so many times where people have been told things like "we won't let you go past 39 weeks" or similar, and I just think it's so wrong for doctors to word it that way. It is always a choice, and doctors should help us make these choices rather than telling us. Medical advice is obviously important and helpful to listen to, but informed consent should go further than "this is what we are telling you to do". Sorry for the rant! Can you tell I have a consultant appointment later that I'm trying to work up my confidence for haha.
@Catherine tbh I’m more scared of induction than against it feel like I want to ride it out naturally and have been mentally preparing myself for that! I just don’t know what to do if I get to that 41+5 period and baby still not here. Absolutely would have declined at 38/39/40 unless medically indicated. I’ve still got just over a week so fingers crossed! 🙏🤲🤞🤍
And honestly it does feel like they’re just offering our inductions like candy these days @Catherine also trying to make as informed choice as possible too! Done lots of research and I just don’t feel it’s for me. So just hoping for the best that he turns up soooon
Have you tried acupuncture?
I’m in the same boat atm, 40+3 days. Trying everything above, nipple stimulation seemed to boost my cramping last night. Also I did a short 30min walk in the evening when I was relaxed the most, that seemed like pushed the baby down a bit more. Got my second sweep booked for tomorrow, although didn’t feel like the first one done much.
Not tried acupuncture but had a massage today … !
Maybe good idea to go for a short walk after your massage, as this is when your body must be relaxed the most
I've been using clary sage but no luck and evening primrose oil. You could try spicy food? I've been living off curry, chilli con carne, anything covered in spicy sauce. Again these aren't working for me but they might work for you?