What to Expect from Doula Support During an Induction

Photo Credit: Erin Heuser Photography

When you’re preparing for birth, it’s natural to hope that labor will begin on its own. However, sometimes medical reasons make an induction necessary. But before diving into how your doula can support you through the process, it’s important to understand that not all reasons for induction are created equal. We encourage you to ask questions and seek clarity if your provider suggests induction.

For example, being told your baby is “big” or that you’re a few days past your due date may not be the best reasons for induction. If everything is going well with you and your baby, a few extra days or a slightly bigger baby might not require intervention. So, make sure to evaluate whether induction is truly necessary for your situation by having an open conversation with your provider.

Common Reasons for Induction

Here are some of the most common reasons for induction:

• Post-term pregnancy: If you’re past your due date, your provider may suggest induction. It’s important to note that every provider has a different definition of “post-term,” so ask questions if you’re unsure or concerned.

• Medical conditions: Health issues like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or preeclampsia can lead to induction for the safety of both you and your baby.

• Ruptured membranes without labor: If your water breaks but labor doesn’t start naturally, your provider may recommend an induction to reduce the risk of infection.

• Concerns about your baby’s well-being: If there are concerns about your baby’s health in the womb, such as slow growth or reduced movements, your provider may suggest an induction to ensure baby is born safely.

Common Methods of Induction

If induction is medically necessary, there are several ways your provider may begin the process. Here are a few common methods:

1. Cervical ripening (using medication or a balloon): If your cervix isn’t soft or dilated, your provider may use medications like misoprostol (Cytotec) or dinoprostone (Cervidil) to help soften and open the cervix. Another method involves using a balloon catheter, which is inserted into the cervix and inflated to help it dilate. These methods help prepare your body for labor, making it more likely to respond to contractions.

2. Stripping the membranes: This method involves a provider using their fingers to separate the amniotic sac from the cervix, which may release hormones to encourage labor.

3. Pitocin: Pitocin is a synthetic form of oxytocin, the hormone that triggers contractions. While some moms fear it, Pitocin can be a helpful tool when medically necessary and used appropriately.

4. Breaking your water (amniotomy): If your cervix is dilated and baby is engaged low in the pelvis, your provider may break your water to help start contractions. However, baby’s position is also crucial. If your baby is in a less optimal position, like occiput posterior (OP), this can slow labor as baby has to navigate the pelvis “backward.” With intentional positioning and movement, your doula can help encourage baby to rotate into a more favorable position, making labor progress more smoothly before your water is broken.

How a Doula Supports You During an Induction

When you’re being induced, your doula can join you at the very beginning of the process if you’d like! This is a great way to have emotional and informational support as the induction gets started, and we can answer any questions or concerns you may have.

However, induction often takes longer than spontaneous labor. It’s common for labor to take 1-2 days from the time an induction begins until your baby is in your arms. For this reason, your doula may return home after the initial phase and come back once your labor has progressed. Here’s why:

1. Inductions Take Time

Induced labor often takes time, sometimes up to a couple of days. Your doula doesn’t need to be there the whole time but will stay in touch and return when active labor begins.

2. Avoid the “Watched Pot” Effect

Having someone there the whole time can create pressure, which may actually slow labor progress. Giving you space allows your body to work naturally.

3. Fresh Support When You Need It Most

By the time labor intensifies, you want a doula who’s well-rested and energized to provide the mental and physical support you need.

Throughout your induction, we will stay in close communication to ensure that your needs are met and that you feel supported. Whether it’s at the very beginning to ease you into the process or later when you need hands-on support during active labor, your doula will be there when it matters most.

Every birth journey is unique, and we’re here to help guide you through it. You are not alone during this process, and together, we’ll ensure you have the best support possible as you prepare to meet your little one!