Induction rates have skyrocketed in recent years, with 30-32% of births now being induced and over 40% of women reporting their providers attempted induction. We break down what labor induction actually involves, from cervical ripening techniques to the pitocin-epidural cycle that often follows. We explore when induction is truly medically necessary versus when it's recommended for questionable reasons like being "past due" or having a "big baby." Learn how to navigate induction decisions and understand the evidence behind common induction practices.

Resources:

• American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Evidence Based Birth

• Mayo Clinic
• "Oxytocin: The Biological Guide to Motherhood" by Dr. Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg
• "In Your Own Time" by Dr. Sara Wickham

This podcast does not offer medical advice.

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