Perineal Massage

Today I want to talk about something a bit uncomfortable...but who are we kidding, there are so many things about pregnancy that can be uncomfortable that most of us are desensitized to it.  In preparation for your baby there are so many things you have done, or will do.  Childbirth classes, register, set up the little ones nursery, assemble baby gear, pack your hospital bag, the list goes on and on.  No where in this list do you see some techniques to prepare the part of your body you will actually be using for delivery; which leads me to perineal massage.

What is perineal massage?

Perineal massage is exactly as it sounds...a massage of the perineal muscles.  The perineal muscles are between the anus and vagina, this area is the perineum.  Stretching and massaging the perineum during the third trimester has been known to reduce the need for episiotomy and reduce the amount of tearing, if any.

In my own experience, and I don’t know if this is the case for all hospitals, they do not do episiotomies where I delivered.   They thought it would be better if I tore on my own.  I see both sides of this; however, I suffered a 4th degree tear that was so bad, 6 months later I am not recovered.  I wish someone had told me about perineal massages.  At the time I probably would have laughed and felt super uncomfortable, but knowing what I know now... I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT! 

Why do a perineal massage?

There are so many benefits to doing a perineal massage.  If you start around 32 weeks or so it gives you plenty of time to help loosen the muscles and stretch the skin.

Here are some of the benefits to perineal massage:

• Your perineum has more elasticity reducing the likely hood of a tear or episiotomy.
• You will find that by massaging the area it can prepare you for the sensation of the baby crowing.  It will show you how the stretching will feel during delivery.
• Believe it or not, any kind of massage can release emotions.  The pressure will bring up certain emotions and will open the door to communication about how you may be feeling.
• Not only should you massage in the weeks before labor, but also during.  Perineal massage during labor will help the tissues around the baby's head as he or she is crowning. The perineum is super sensitive during birth so it’s helpful to use perineal massage during labor as well as in the weeks prior.

Can my partner do the massage? Or should I do it?

Your partner absolutely can part take in the perineal massaging.  I know for myself, I would feel so funny for numerous reasons.  I know some other moms who feel the same way.  A friend of mine and I were talking about perineal massage and I was telling her the benefits, as she is a first time mom and was unaware.  She said to me “I don’t want my husband to view this as something sexual.”  I completely agree, it can be awkward, uncomfortable, and he may have some fears about perineal massage as well.  “What if I hurt her?” Well, here is the thing...if you keep the lines of communication open between you and your partner you don’t have to worry about these things.  Talk to your partner about how you both are feeling before diving in.

How do I do a perineal massage?

• First things first, both you and your partner should wash your hands.
• Find a comfortable place where you feel relaxed to do the massage. 
• In preparation, apply a warm compress on the perineum for about 10 minutes before massage to help the muscles relax.
• Sit in a comfortable position.
• You want to use some lubricant which can be water-soluble lubricant, olive oil, vegetable oil or Vitamin E oil.  Put some on the thumbs and perineum.
• Place thumbs just inside of the vagina.
• Press downward towards the rectum and to the sides at the same time until you feel a very slight burning, stinging, or tingling sensation.
• Hold the pressure for about 1 minute.
• Breathe deeply and slowly and try your best to relax the muscles.
• Keep pressing down with the thumb and slowly and gently massage back and forth over the sides of the vagina in a 'U' movement for 3 minutes.
• Relax and repeat once.
• Just a note -- You want to avoid pressure at the top of the vaginal opening. Massage gently because a forceful massage could cause bruising or swelling. This is why if your partner is doing the massaging, you must keep the lines of communication open.

As I said before, there is so much benefit to perineal massages.  I wish I had known about perineal massage and it would have helped me so much during my delivery.  Try it out with your partner!

doTERRA Essential Oils For Pregnancy, Labor & Delivery, And Postpartum

During pregnancy there can be so many joys but also much discomfort.  Not only during pregnancy, but also with labor and delivery, even postpartum.  As I wrote about yesterday, there is a wonderful company called doTERRA which has some natural remedies for the discomforts you may experience through the miracle of pregnancy, labor, delivery, and once your beautiful baby arrives.  There are so many essential oils that doTERRA offers and they have a concoction for most pregnancy aches and pains, labor discomfort and postpartum healing.

Pregnancy:

As beautiful as pregnancy is, let’s face it...there can be so many things that cause you to be incredibly uncomfortable, especially towards the end.  There are 8 essential oils from doTERRA that will become your best friends during pregnancy; Bergamot, Geranium, Ginger, Lavender, Lemon, Sandalwood, Wild Orange, and Ylang Ylang.  Each oil or a combination of oils help specific discomforts during pregnancy.

• Acid Reflux/Heartburn -- Add 2 drops of Lemon to drinking water.  Apply Frankincense on throat and chest.
• Anxiety -- Diffuse or inhale Wild Orange or Lavender.  Add Lavender, Ylang Ylang, or Geranium to a warm bath.  This will also be great to have in the delivery room to help stay relaxed.
• Breast Tenderness -- Apply Lavender to the top of each breast.
• Cold Sore -- Apply Melissa or Bergamot at the first tingle; repeat hourly.
• Congestion -- Apply Lemon under nose, on chest, or to the bottoms of feet.
• Constipation -- Apply Lemon or Ginger to stomach or add to drinking water.
• Depression -- Use Lavender, Frankincense, Bergamot, Wild Orange, or Geranium.  Diffuse add to bath or massage, or apply to bottoms of feet.
• Edema/Swelling -- Massage diluted Geranium, Ginger, Lemon, or Lavender into legs, starting at the feet.  Work toward the heart, stopping at the thighs.  Cypress may be used in the third trimester.  Drink plenty of water.
• Fatigue -- Inhale Wild Orange.
• Headache -- Apply Lavender to the back of the neck and temples.
• Hemorrhoids -- Apply Geranium or Cypress to affected area or add to sitz bath.
• High Blood Pressure -- Add Lavender or Ylang Ylang to a nightly bath or diffuse.  Avoid Peppermint oil.
• Insomnia -- Use Lavender, Sandalwood or Ylang Ylang.  Before bed diffuse, apply to feet, or add to bath.
• Itchy Skin -- Apply diluted Lavender.  Use Belly Butter Recipe on the back of this sheet.
• Muscle Cramps -- Apply Lavender, Bergamot, or Sandalwood.
• Nausea -- Make a mist with 20 drops Peppermint or Ginger, 10 drops Wild Orange, 15 drops Lemon.  Add to a 4 ounce bottle and top it off with water.  Mist when nausea strikes.  Massage earlobes with Ginger; add to water to drink.
• Perineum Preparation -- Dilute Geranium and apply to perineum.  Massage daily from 37 weeks until delivery.
• Preterm Labor -- To help stop preterm labor; massage 1 to 3 drops of diluted Lavender from ankles to hips.  To prevent preterm labor; add to a relaxing bath each evening.
• Sciatica -- Massage Bergamot into painful area and down leg.
• Stretch Mark Prevention -- Use Belly Butter recipe.
• UTI/Kidney Infection -- Add Lemon to drinking water.  Apply Lemongrass over the bladder.  Apply Cypress over the kidneys.

Labor & Delivery:

The tricky part of labor and delivery is you never know what exactly will happen.  It is great to be prepared for anything.  There are some essential oils which are great to use during birth.

• Back Labor -- Apply 1 to 3 drops of Black Pepper to lower back.  Bilute and massage if that is comforting.
• Prevention of Hemorrhage -- Apply 1 to 3 drops of Helichrysum on lower back during labor to help prevent.
• Labor Progression -- Apply Clary Sage to the lower abdomen.  Massage gently.
• Relaxation -- Spray Mist; 20 drops Lavender, 15 drops Wild Orange, 15 drops Peppermint.  Top off with a bit of water in a 4 ounce bottle.
• Energy -- Spray Mist; 15 drops Wild Orange, 10 drops Bergamot, 10 drops Lavender, 10 drops Clary Sage.  Top off with a bit of water in a 4 ounce bottle.

Postpartum:

After you deliver, whether vaginal or c-section, doTERRA has some oils which are great for helping the healing.

• Cramping -- Massage diluted Lavender onto lower abdomen.  Apply a hot compress or heating pad.
• Anxiety -- Inhale Wild Orange or Lavender.  Diffusing these oils will benefit the whole family.
• C-section Incision Care -- Apply Lavender, Frankincense, and Helichrysum to promote healing.  Add Melaleuca if infection is a concern.
• Postpartum Depression -- Use a combination of Lavender, Patchouli, Frankincense, and Clary Sage in a diffuser, in a bath, or use with carrier oil for a massage.  Apply to the bottoms of feet several times a day.  
• Perineum Care -- There are 3 possible remedies you should prepare in advance.

-- Spray Mist: Add Geranium, Lavender, and Helichrysum to a small spray bottle.  Mist onto the tender area frequently,  Add a little carrier oil to dilute if needed.

-- Soothing Pads: Add 20 to 30 drops of Lavender, Roman Chamomile, or Geranium to a bottle of witch hazel.  Shake mixture well and apply to large maxi pads.  Place pads in the freezer until needed.  Use after vaginal delivery to ease perineum pain.

-- Perineum Rinse:  Combine 5 to 10 drops of Lavender or Geranium to water in a Peri bottle for a soothing rinse.  Use this rinse after using the bathroom.

Breastfeeding:

• Cracked Nipples -- Apply Lavender and olive oil to nipples after each feeding. Myrrh can also be soothing.  Make sure the baby is latching properly.  Pain can be an indication that the baby is not latching proper.
• Fussiness -- Diffuse Lavender and Wild Orange to help keep Mommy and Baby calm.  This is especially great when struggling with breastfeeding to help keep a calm atmosphere.
• Mastitis -- Don’t stop nursing or pumping.  Use Lavender on top of each infected breast throughout the day.  Massage the following blend over the entire breast.  10 drops each Melaleuca, Lavender, Roman Chamomile in 2 tablespoons carrier oil.  Massage from armpits toward the nipple.
• Supply Issues -- To help start production, massage 1 to 2 drops of Clary Sage to top of breasts.

              -- To help increase supply, massage 1 to 2 drops of Basil or Fennel to the top of breasts.

              -- To help decrease supply, massage 1 to 2 drops of Peppermint to the top of breasts.

I have had a friend who is due in the summer use these products during pregnancy and she loves them.  I used the Perineum Care myself.  During delivery I had a 4th degree tear.  Not pretty. It took incredibly long to heal, and still is.  We could not seem to get things healing properly, I started using each method of Perineum Care and I am about 90% back to normal... as normal as one can be after birth.  I am in love with these products and recommend them to anyone struggling with their pregnancy.

I must urge you to speak to your doctor or midwife before using anything during pregnancy.  For the information I have listed, this has come from doTERRA and the rest is my opinion. I was not compensated in any way by doTERRA.

Know Your Birth Rights!

During labor and delivery, even prenatal visits, it can feel very procedure, it can make you feel like just another number.  You will have this, you must wear this, you can only do this.  By no fault of the doctors, it can feel like an object, not a person.  With pregnancy, there is so much to it that there is a procedure and it is followed by doctors and midwives because they must deal with so many women giving birth.  Because of the fact that doctors and midwives see so many women it is difficult for them to make it a personal experience fit to only you.  I stress, it is no fault of the doctor or midwife that this is how the system is, but it is.  With that being said, advocacy is a huge deal to me and being able to advocate for yourself during this special time is so important.  I find so many women just go along with things because they don’t know enough information to question.  It is because of this that I decided to start my blog in the first place.  In order to advocate for yourself you must understand your rights.  This goes for anything, but I am just going to discuss rights for women giving birth.

I want to start off by discussing consent.  Consent is an agreement between the patient and physician during any form of treatment.  You may have had to sign a few forms that allow treatment or something like this.  Women don’t always realize there are different types of consent.

Informed Consent-  This is probably one of the simplest concepts in medicine.  It means that the patient has the right to know what your are going to do before it is done, giving you the option to agree.  Everything must be explained and any questions you ask must be answered.  I have a girlfriend who just delivered her beautiful baby girl and when she went to the hospital they immediately started an IV, “just in case”.  They didn’t explain anything to her, why the IV was started or the benefits of it.  She didn’t know enough to question anything about it; but she didn’t end up needing the IV at all.  She has a huge fear of needles and was stuck for no reason.  As I said before, it is no fault of the doctor or midwife because it is simply procedure, but had she known all the details she could have refused.

Consent Forms- A consent form is usually given to you to sign at the time you check in at the hospital.  When they take your insurance information, you usually sign some paperwork, in this bunch of papers is the consent form.  Some don’t realize that you can do some creative editing to your consent form.  You have the right to read through and cross things out that you do not agree to and write in things that you would prefer to happen.

Emergency Consent- When you or your baby are in danger the doctor or midwife has the write to perform whatever medical procedure necessary without informing you.  Let’s not forget that it is the duty of the doctors and midwives to get the baby out safely.  For example, an emergency c-section.  If the reason you need an emergency c-section is fatal, there is no time for explanation and you have to trust that your physician knows what they are doing.

Along with agreeing to treatment, you have the right to disagree.

The Right To Refuse-  You reserve the right to refuse treatment if you feel the doctor or midwife is not doing you justice.  If you feel this way finding a second opinion is the best bet.  When I was 30 weeks pregnant, I had failed my gestational diabetes screening by 1 point, which was silly because in most states the cut off is 140, but where I am it is 130.  Because I was in a practice which had 15 doctors, it was impossible to meet everyone before my due date, the schedule just didn’t allow it, believe me, I tried.  At this prenatal appointment I ended up seeing someone who knew nothing about my history or the fact that I vomited my way through the 1 hour screening, which turned into 5 hours because I wasn’t able to hold it down and had to repeat it until I could hold it.  He was forcing me to get the 3 hour test done and fought with me about it.  I refused because I knew that I couldn’t keep the diet up even if I had GD because I had hyperemesis.  This is just one example of refusal.  Had I not had more knowledge about GD I would have tortured myself and literally made myself more sick by doing the test, when in my situations the risk outweighed the benefit.  Also something I don’t think most women realize is that you have the right to refuse certain doctors, midwives, or nurses.  If you are getting an IV done and you are not comfortable with the person doing it, you have the right to ask for someone else.

The Right To Change Your Mind- Some women have birth plans or decide early on they want the delivery to go a certain way.  You can absolutely change your mind.  If you think you may want to go all natural, no pain medication and then when you are in labor decide you can’t handle it you have the right to go against your birth plan or previous decision.  You can also change your mind if you consented to treatment that a doctor or midwife prescribes.  Nothing is set in stone, especially with labor and delivery.  There is no way to know what will happen.

It is so important to inform yourself so you know what is going on and why certain treatments are offered.  Being an advocate for yourself is the biggest part of a good experience.  Never be afraid to respectfully question something that is going on. You are in control of your experience.  This is just some general information and is in no way legal advice.  Stay informed to make your experience the best one possible.

Birthing Options

Since the beginning of time women have been giving birth.  Women have given birth in fields, elevators, any and everywhere.  We are so lucky now to have options where we can labor and deliver.  Here are some of the options for women to consider when planning their delivery.

Birth Centers

Birth centers are for women who have a low risk pregnancy.  Giving birth in a birth center allows women to have a more natural experience while still having the medical assistance at the ready if any complication were to arise. 

Benefits to birth center:

• Momma has control
  In a hospital setting you may be limited to how much you can move around, or who can be present with you during labor and delivery. In a birth center you are able to invite who you would like to be there.  If you have children and you would like them present, they are 100% welcome. Also, you may want to be moving around to ease the contraction pain, which you are more than able to do in a birthing center.
• A warm environment
  A birth center has a different feel from a hospital.  It is a much more personalized experience.
• Medical attention if necessary
  If any complication is to happen, there is medical intervention at the ready.  If you are not in a birth center which is in a hospital, the medical attention given at your birth center will get you to a hospital if needed.

Risk of birth center:

• Early discharge
  Mommas are discharged within 12 to 24 hours of the baby being born.  This could be seen as a benefit to some women.  For some women, they need or want that 2 day recovery time where they have the help of the hospital staff.
• No on call pediatrician
  You need to have the appropriate doctors ready for your baby because there is no on call pediatrician who can come check out the baby.
• Difficult transport
  If problems arise, you will be transported during labor

Home Birth

For women who have absolutely no risk in their pregnancy, 100% normal and healthy pregnancy, this option may be for you.  One thing you need to make sure of is, if you have a medical history with prior pregnancies like preeclampsia, diabetes, high blood pressure, or previous c-section, you may want to reconsider this option.  With the right team and support anything is possible, but when dealing with your health and your baby’s health, you can never be too safe.

Benefits to home birth:

• Comfortable environment
  For home births, what is more comfortable than being in your own home?  Being in a familiar environment will help ease your anxiety.
• Family and friends welcome
  You can have anyone and everyone come to your home and witness the birth of your baby.

Risks of home birth:

• Insurance
  A home birth may not be covered by insurance.
• No pain relief
  There is no pain relief available if you are to change your mind
• No on call pediatrician
  You need to have the appropriate doctors ready for your baby because there is no on call pediatrician who can come check out the baby.
• Difficult transport
  If problems arise, you will be transported during labor

Water Birth

A water birth is when you give birth or labor while in a tub or jacuzzi, basically being immersed in warm water.  In order to have a water birth, you must not have any pregnancy complication or infection and your baby should full term, at least 39 weeks.

Benefits of water birth:

• Relaxation
  The water flow will help relax momma’s muscles and improve blood flow.  The water also allows momma to focus more.
• Pain Relief
  The water will relieve some of the pressure on your body.
• Eases the baby in
  Some women believe since their baby is in water in the womb, it will ease their coming into the world by bringing him or her in warm water, rather than a cold bright room.

Risks of water birth:

• Baby swallowing water
  The baby can swallow water which could lead to electrolyte problems.  The baby could also get an infection if the water is contaminated in any way.
• Lack of oxygen
  It is possible there could be a lack of oxygen underwater.  If this happens the baby could suffer brain damage.

Hospital

Giving birth in a hospital is the most traditional birthing method.  Hospitals have private rooms with tubs where women can labor and deliver.

Benefits to hospital birth:

• Medical comfort
  Many women feel safest when in a hospital setting because the proper medical attention is right there. 
• No last minute rush
  You don’t have to worry about being rushed to a hospital if some complication were to arise.
• Pediatric attention
  There is immediate pediatric attention for your baby.
• Recovery help
  In a hospital you have 2 days recovery time where the hospital staff is there for all your needs. 

Risks to hospital birth:

• Limited people involved
  You are only allowed 2 people in the room with you during labor and deliver.  Some women want more than 2 family members or friends.
• Less privacy and impersonal
  It is not quite as personal an experience as a home birth or a birth center.  In my own experience, I felt like a priority during my labor and delivery and had a very personal experience, but not every women has this experience.
• Limited activity
  You are most likely stuck in a bed because you are hooked up to the fetal monitors.  Some women don’t mind this, some need to move during labor.

Braxton Hicks Or The Real Deal

During pregnancy your body is doing so many things to prepare you for labor.  You made have heard of something called Braxton Hicks which is a big way for your body to prepare for labor.  A question among so many expecting women is, “What is the difference between Braxton Hicks and the real thing?”

Braxton Hicks contractions are “practice contractions” that you may be feeling during your third trimester.  Some women experience them as early as the second trimester.  Braxton Hicks are a tightening of the uterus that can last anywhere from 30 second to 2 minutes.  They are inconsistent and unpredictable.  There are a number of things that will cause Braxton Hicks contractions to happen.

What Braxton Hicks feels like:

• Tightening of the uterus
• Inconsistent
• Unpredictable
• Uncomfortable

Causes of Braxton Hicks:

• An active baby
• An active mommy
• Touching the bump
• Sexual Intercourse
• Dehydration

How to relieve Braxton Hicks:

• Drink some water - stay hydrated
• Change your position
• Lie on your opposite side
• Go for a walk
• Take a warm bath

Real contractions are consistent and will gain intensity as time goes by and being to get closer together.  They come in intervals that will last from 30 seconds to about a 1 minute.  Nothing will relieve real contractions, position changes, drinking water, none of the tricks will help.  Real contractions are a bit more painful than Braxton Hicks contractions.  They may be in your back as well as your abdomen.

When to call your doctor or midwife:

• You have contractions every 5 minutes consistently for 1 hour
• Increased pressure in your pelvis or vagina
• Contraction strength is immense (unable to walk or talk through them)
• Abdominal cramping
• Fluid leak
• Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea

If you are experiencing the above, you are most likely in real labor!

If you find that something is going on and you are unsure, call your doctor or midwife!  They can tell you if you are experiencing a false alarm or if you need to proceed to the hospital.

Epidural Or Not?

So many women have concerns about the pain associated with labor and delivery.  When it is your first time having a baby, just about everything is unknown.  With pregnancy, labor, and delivery, you could be on your fifth kid and there will still be so many unknowns because every experience is different.  There are some women that will get through labor and delivery without any pain med at all and say it wasn’t so bad.  Some women need the pain relief and find it excruciating.  Every woman has a different pain tolerance.  For those women who do not want pain medication and go all natural, I have an enormous respect for you!  I wish I had been that strong, but for me it just was not going to happen.  For those of you who feel they want the pain relief, there is no shame in that.  If there are the resources available why suffer if it is unbearable for you.  Remember, you are the only one who know what you are feeling.  That being said, I just want to educate you a little bit further on your options and clear up a few misconceptions.

As with anything, before you move forward with something you should know all the facts.  Talking it out with your doctor or midwife to know your options is your first step.  If pain relief is something you are considering, you need to know what questions to ask. Here are a few questions to think about asking your doctor or midwife while considering any pain relief:

What are the different methods of pain relief available to me?

How will an epidural affect the baby?

Is there any instance I won’t be able to have an epidural?

What are the advantages and disadvantages to having an epidural?

What are any possible side effects?

What are the risks?

How is an epidural given?

How long before it begins to work?

Will it wear off?

Will I be able to move once the epidural is placed?

At what point of labor can I have an epidural?

Is it painful?

There are so many misconceptions about epidurals.  I am guilty of this myself.  I assumed so many things about epidurals going into my pregnancy when I couldn’t possibly have known.  I just want to discuss some of the things assumed about epidurals but aren’t ever really clarified.

The needle is humongous and is more painful than contractions.

This is false.  It is no more painful than having an IV inserted.  The most difficult thing about having an epidural is the possibility that you may have a contraction during the process and you must hold still.  The needle portion is about 1 minute, just long enough to insert the catheter, which is the size of pencil lead.  An epidural is inserted in your back, so for you to see the needle and know exactly what is going on back there is highly unlikely.  Make sure you breath through it, but truly the most painful part is possibly having a contraction during the process.

You are there for hours because you can’t feel anything and won’t be able to push.

Again, false.  Epidurals do help ease the pain, but they do not paralyze you.  You can feel the pressure that urges you to push.  One common thing I have found with other women’s experience, is they expect to feel absolutely nothing.  When the epidural is in and there is still a bit of discomfort, they ask for a higher dose because they are still in pain.  This is where the issue of not feeling comes in.  You wont completely feel nothing with an epidural.  If you know this going in, it will help.

You must wait until you are 5 to 7 cm before you can have an epidural.

This really depends on your doctor, but not likely.  You can ask at any point, normally around 3 cm you are able to have an epidural.  You can always ask!  One thing women don’t realize is that you are able to have the catheter placed and the medication later.  Having an epidural will help your body relax allowing your body to do what needs to be done.  For some women, they are in such pain and the anxiety is so high, the body can not relax to dilate and then there is complication.

I want to share my own experience, not to freak anyone out, but so you are aware of the reality of pain relief.  I went through an induction process so I had pain relief and medication.  I did have an epidural around 4-5 cm when I was brought down to delivery.  I absolutely could feel the sensation of needing to push when it came time.  As I was nearing the point of no return, my epidural wore off.  I want you to know this because there is no guarantee that an epidural will work 100%.  I will say I did not feel 1 contraction once I had the epidural, which, at least in my own experience, the contractions were worse than giving birth.  If you chose to have pain relief stay informed as much as you can.  Try not to blindly go in.  Ask questions, and keep an open mind.

Theory Of In-home Induction

Towards the end of your pregnancy, you may be getting antsy, anxious, and ready for it to be over.  When nearing the due date, most women are willing to do anything and everything to get the baby out.  There are a slew of theories on ways that you can induce naturally at home.  Before I start on telling you those theories and why they may not be right, I want it to be clear that I am a firm believer that the baby will come when he or she is ready and there is not too much you can do to speed up that process.  Believe me, I know.  These are some of the theories out there and why they may not be the best idea.  That is not to say that there are not a few things you can do to help the process.

Castor Oil: It is an old theory that ingesting castor oil will bring on labor.  There is no sufficient evidence that this works.  It will; however, bring on horrible diarrhea because it is a laxative.  This is dangerous because it could dehydrate you.  It has a very unpleasant taste and could bring on vomiting, nausea and abdominal cramping as well as diarrhea.  Castor oil’s main purpose is stimulation of the bowels.  I promise you, it will act as a laxative.  It is believed that castor oil will stimulate the intestines which may also stimulate the uterus and cause contractions that may or may not result in active labor.  It is very dangerous to try this without consulting a doctor or midwife who is in support and monitoring you.  Does it really work? Some women swear by it, some women do it and are incredibly sick and still no baby.

Cohosh: This is also believed to start labor.  There is insufficient evidence that prove it will bring on labor.  If your body is not ready, it will not work. Like castor oil, cohosh will cause diarrhea, abdominal cramping and increased blood pressure.  You must know that when cohosh is taken in the later stages of your pregnancy it can cause heart problems to your unborn baby.  It is very dangerous to use this, supervised or unsupervised.  Discuss with your doctor or midwife if it is something you think you want to use and listen to their stand point on it.

Spicy Foods:  There is absolutely no evidence that spicy food will bring on labor.  The same idea applies to spicy food that is with laxatives.  The stimulation of the intestines may carry over to the uterus.  It is unlikely, and will cause bigger issues for you.  If you do end up going into labor on your own, do you really want an upset stomach on top of it?

There are a few things that can help slightly, but not make you go into labor.  These things are meant to help soften the cervix.  Softening the cervix makes it easier for the cervix to ripen, thus, progress in labor.

Sex:  It is said that sex can help you go into labor.  The truth behind this is it can help the process but will not bring on labor.  The part that you aren’t usually told is, it isn’t that act of having sex that helps.  You must have unprotected sex and your partner must ejaculate semen into the vagina allowing it to hit the cervix.  Semen contains ‘prostaglandins’ which is used for soften the cervix.  The softer the cervix, the easier it is to ripen.  Some women feel funny about having sex while pregnant especially towards the end, because your twosome is a threesome, but have no fear, your baby won’t be scarred for life.  It is perfectly safe (unless your doctor specifies otherwise) and will help in ripening the cervix.

Nipple Stimulation:  A combination of sex and nipple stimulation will help your body is preparing to go into labor.  Nipple stimulation will release the hormone Oxytocin.  Oxytocin is used in hospital inductions and is the hormone necessary to bring on contractions.

Evening Primrose Oil:  Like semen, evening primrose oil is great for softening the cervix.  The oil will help your body release prostaglandins helping the cervix soften.

In my own experience, towards the very end I tried, literally, all of the above, and then some.  All unpleasant, and none helped.  I wish I had the knowledge then about what doing some of these things could do and the risks.  When you search on the internet, most of the time you find the positive over the negative.  I found that so many women said these things worked for them so I figured I was so done with being so sick, why not?  It was not smart to try and induce on my own.  After going through it and making the mistakes, I can tell you, let your body do what it needs to do on it’s own.  If for whatever reason you need to be induced in a hospital setting, as I did, you are in good hands.  They are using medication that is safe for you and your baby in monitored doses.  I know how hard it is to be patient, especially when you are so sick you can’t take it anymore.  Be patient, let your body do what it needs to do.  If there is some reason you can’t, let your doctor or midwife decide the next step.

Is This Normal?

There are so many aches and pain during pregnancy.  At times it is hard to tell what it is concerning and what is not.  A huge question I have been asked lately is, “When should I  call my doctor? Is this normal?”  The thing about pregnancy is, so much is going on with your body and everyone is different.  You can not pinpoint a “norm” because what may be completely normal for one woman, could be concerning for another.

It is very rare that women fly through pregnancy with ease and never have a situation where calling the doctor is necessary.  If you are one of those women, I am jealous!  I managed to have kidney stones, pyelonephritis (kidney infection), hyperemesis, fluid leak at 27 weeks, the list goes on.  Like you, I questioned, when do I need to all the doctor?  I was always so worried about being an alarmist because so many things feel uncomfortable and are changing during pregnancy.

A rule of thumb is when in doubt, call your doctor or midwife.  You want to be safe than sorry.  I just want to educate you further so when you do call your doctor or midwife you have a bit more knowledge on what you may be calling about.  So many times I went in a nervous wreck when it was nothing or I would go in completely calm and end up at the hospital.  Here are some questionable times for women, normal or not, and when to call your doctor or midwife.

Bleeding:

Bleeding can happen in the first trimester and this is because of implantation of the fertilized egg in the lining of the uterus.  No matter what the circumstance, if you have bleeding always call your doctor or midwife.  Especially if it is associated by cramping.

Fluid Leak:

Any fluid leak is tricky because some women can experience some incontinence throughout the pregnancy.  Yup, you could pee yourself.  This can often be confused with thinking your water has broken.  In my own experience, I had some fluid and at first I didn’t really say anything, then I showed my mom and we called the doctor.  When I called the doctor, she said it was probably urine and not to be too concerned.  I called back and they were closed so I got the on-call doctor who brought me right in to the hospital.  I kept having nurses and doctors explain that sometimes you can pee during pregnancy but I knew this wasn’t pee.  They did 3 tests to see what was going on and test the fluid, turns out it was NOT pee...it was amniotic fluid.  The story goes on, but back to my point, it is difficult to tell so don’t hesitate to call your doctor or midwife.  If you feel you aren’t getting answers you must be your own advocate!

Frequent Urination:

It is totally normal to be running to the bathroom more than ever before.  The baby can be pressing on the bladder causing this.  It becomes a problem when you are urinating frequently and have pain, burning or any discomfort during urination.  Also, beware of a constant urge to go.  This could be from the baby’s position but could also be signs of a Urinary Tract Infection.  

Changes In Discharge:

You will find changes to vaginal discharge throughout your pregnancy.  Discharge is totally normal but watch out for any itching, burning or unusual odor that may be associated with the discharge.  Be sure to mention any changes to your doctor or midwife.

Depression:

Prenatal Depression is something that is sometimes over looked.  How blue is too blue?  Being uncomfortable and miserable during pregnancy is normal depending on your situation.  If you find you are lethargic, having excessive mood swings, uncontrollable crying, and constantly feeling hopeless, you need to make sure you address this with your doctor or midwife immediately.

Nausea/Vomiting:

Be sure to monitor your nausea/vomiting.  If you are finding there is no relief and it is getting worse, it most likely is not just morning sickness.  The predictable spurts of nausea and vomiting that can be relieved would be classified as morning sickness.  If you are finding nothing will help and it is all day and all night with no let up, it could be hyperemesis.  Talk to you doctor immediately to see what you can do to help stay hydrated and as healthy as possible through your pregnancy.

Swelling:

Having swelling during your pregnancy can be normal, but it can also be a sign of some serious complications.  During pregnancy, all the hormonal changes will cause some water retention and minor swelling.  If you find any sudden swelling in your hands, feet, and/or face accompanied by headaches and/or blurred vision call your doctor or midwife immediately!  These are signs of a serious complication called preeclampsia.  You may also hear the terms, gestational hypertension, pregnancy induced hypertension or toxemia.

Contractions:

A huge sign of labor, contractions.  How do you know when they are real or not?  I kept asking my mom throughout my pregnancy, how will I know?  Her response was always..”you’ll know.”  It could not be more true.  I was in what is call inactive labor for 2 weeks prior to delivery.  Inactive labor is when you are have true contractions but not dilating.  Some women experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions, prior to real labor.  The Braxton Hicks can be uncomfortable but definitely are not the real deal!  I had Braxton Hicks which were tightening and slightly uncomfortable.  When the real thing hit, I couldn’t even speak when I was in a contraction.  It is a tough call of knowing when to go and when to stay.  Timing your contractions is important.  Contractions in early labor last from 30 to 60 seconds and will be 5 to 10 minutes apart.  Let you doctor or midwife know and they will guide you.

These are some just instances where it is hard to tell what is normal or not.  I hope this gives you some more information.  As I said before, when in doubt do not hesitate to call your doctor or midwife.  You can never be too safe when it comes to pregnancy.  So much is unknown so it is normal to question things going on with your body.

Inducing Labor

What is inducing labor? One of the many questions I had during my pregnancy and delivery.  I never thought my delivery would go as it did, but then, that is the point about “What To Expect When It Isn’t Expected”.  I can not tell you exactly how your experience will go with an induction, but I can answer some questions that I have been asked about my own.  If nothing else it gives you a bit more knowledge.

What is an induced labor?

An induced labor is when your labor doesn’t start or progress on it’s own and you need the help of outside medications or methods to give birth.  

Is induced labor a guarantee?

No, in some cases inducing labor does not work.  If the baby is not ready to grace you with his or her presence, then an induction most likely won’t work.  When I was going through my induction I was very fortunate that each step went beautifully and the total process took 12 hours.  The girl in the room next to mine, unfortunately, had been going through her induction for a week and it was not progressing.  They were inducing her because of gestational diabetes but it was not terribly urgent for her to deliver as it was in my situation.  The poor thing was walking the halls and doing whatever she could to help the process.  It is important to know that know matter what, if the baby is not ready, the baby will not come naturally.

When is your labor induced?

There are a number of reasons and pregnancy complications that would lead you to an induced labor.

• Having a pregnancy complication, such as, preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, or kidney disease.
• Broken water with no contractions.  If you water has broken and labor does not follow you and your baby could be at risk of infection.  If there is a suspicion of infection, further testing will be done and your doctor or midwife will decide what is best for you and your baby.
• Your baby has stopped growing at a proper weight or is very overgrown.  Any feeling that your baby is at risk will lead to an induction or c-section.
• A lack of amniotic fluid around the baby.
• A placenta abruption, deterioration to the placenta or an insufficient placenta.
• Hitting the 42 week mark and no baby will usually lead to an induction.  You will be offered the option but some women do not opt for an induction which is totally fine as long as you and your baby are safe.  Waiting longer than 42 weeks can increase the risk of stillbirth or other medical problems so it is best to listen to your doctor or midwife and trust them.

How will my labor be induced?

There are a few different methods and medicines used for a labor induction.  I won’t lie to you, it can cause a bit of discomfort, but if it is what is best for you and your baby, you do what needs to be done.  The goal in an induction is to ripen the cervix, which means to get your cervix softened, thinned out, and beginning to dilate, and to begin labor.  Some methods and medication used to induce are: 

Prostaglandins -- If you are being induced but your cervix is not ripe, you'll begin the induction by having medication containing prostaglandins inserted into the vagina by the doctor or midwife at the hospital. This medication helps to dilate you and thin out the cervix.

Foley catheter -- You may have a catheter placed in the cervix.  The catheter has a small balloon that is not yet inflated at the end of it and is placed into your cervix. The balloon is inflated with water to puts pressure on the cervix helping the release of prostaglandins, this will cause the cervix to dilate and thin. When the cervix has dilated to about 5 cm it will fall out and be removed.

Rupturing the membranes (Breaking your water)-- If you're at least 4 to 5 cm dilated, but not showing much sign of progression, your doctor or midwife can insert an instrument that looks like a crochet needle through the cervix to break your amniotic sac. This looks like it will hurt and be uncomfortable, but it really isn’t.  It is no worse than having a vaginal exam.

Pitocin -- This is given through an IV drip to get contractions going.  In an induction once you have reached the point where you go down to the delivery room an epidural will be given if you decide you want one and Pitocin will be given through your IV.  For women who’s water does break but there is no progression, Pitocin is also given.  When your water breaks, most doctors or midwifes will want to deliver within 12 to 24 hours because the risk of infection for you and your baby increases the longer you go with a ruptured membrane.  The amount of Pitocin is adjusted as you start progressing.  I don’t want to deceive you, Pitocin will make the contractions come on very strong and they are painful.  In labor that start on it’s own there is a build, with Pitocin and it is WHAM! you are in labor.

In my own experience, all of these methods and medications were used together.  I was admitted and had the foley catheter done and medication also inserted to help in ripening the cervix.  Within a few hours the catheter fell out and I was having very strong contractions.  I was given some morphine for the pain to ease the contractions.  By this time I was in “inactive labor” for a week now.  This means contractions but no progression, going in I was about 3 cm dilated.  After the dose of morphine wore off I was brought down to delivery, given an epidural and the Pitocin started.  Shortly after, my water was broken, and a few hours later it was time to push.  I was vey fortunate and had a very successful induction.  It is so important to relax to help your body do what it needs to and help your baby relax.

Under what circumstances should my labor NOT be induced?

• If there is an indication that the contractions would be too much for your baby then you will most likely be brought in for a c-section.  It depends on the test results.
• Placenta previa, which is when the placenta blocks the exit for the baby.
• Your baby is breech (head up, feet down).
• You previously had a c-section. 
• You have genital herpes.
• You are having multiples.

I hope this helps inform you a bit about what inducing labor is and the procedure.  It can be scary, but I have to say, don’t be.  Most things about pregnancy and childbirth are unknown.  Whatever you endure is for your baby.  If you have any stories of your experience, questions or comments feel free to contact me at helpingmommytone@gmail.com!