Labor induction
If you’re having an induction, you can rest easy knowing you and your child are in great hands at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula’s Family Birth Center.
There are a variety of medical and non-medical reasons you and your provider may choose to induce labor. Labor induction is when medication or physical techniques are used to move the body into labor.
For a review of each method and a discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of each, go to your Injoy birthing class section on medical procedures. After learning about each, talk with your provider to find out which options they offer, and which you prefer.
Before your induction
Your doctor can schedule your induction. The Family Birth Center may reschedule your appointment based on your health or the urgent needs of other patients.
On the day of your procedure, call us at (831) 625-4773 1 hour before your appointment. This lets you confirm your induction and make sure your room and birth team are ready to go. Feel free to eat, drink, shower, and go about your daily life as normal before your induction. You’re welcome to bring support people with you to your appointment.
During your induction
Inductions often help your labor start, but they aren’t guaranteed to do so. Labor can start anywhere from a few hours to a few days later. If you’re induced before your due date, or you’re giving birth for the first time, it’s more likely that it’ll take a few days for your labor to begin. Make sure you bring plenty of activities to keep yourself relaxed and entertained in the meantime. Consider packing items like:
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A laptop or device
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Books
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Crossword puzzles
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Games
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Knitting
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Magazines
