There is a lot you CAN do to stay in control while having an induction.
Stay Mobile
Remaining as mobile and upright as possible can help you cope better with the process of induction. Walking, dancing, swaying, squatting and using a birth ball all help to keep you mobile and active, which can help your labour to establish.
If you are in hospital, your midwife will encourage and help you remain mobile and try good positions, feel free to ask for advice on this. We would also encourage you to go for a walk in or around the hospital grounds, returning in time for any recommended observations for you and your baby.
Keep Comfortable
Ask your midwife about different types of pain relief you can use at home or in the hospital.
If you are thinking of using a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) machine for pain relief we recommend you bring in your own machine from home.
Find more information about pain relief here: Your pain relief options in NHS Lothian – Maternity Services
Eating and Drinking
Induction can be a long process and take a few days so, in the early stages of induction, you should try to eat and drink as normal as your body will need energy for your labour. You may not feel like eating full meals, but healthy snacks such as dried fruit, cereal bars or flapjacks and sports drinks can all help you to keep your energy levels up.
What to bring to the hospital
The induction process can take a long time, sometimes days. Pack clothes and footwear you feel comfortable in. It is a good idea to bring in any small comforts from home that may help you relax; e.g., your own pillow or blanket. Bring something to pass the time – books, magazines, card games are all popular. You can bring your mobile phone or tablet devices to watch TV/films but note that the hospital takes no responsibility for their safety if you leave them unattended.
Meals will be provided for you, but you may wish to bring your own snacks and drinks in. Space and storage on the wards is limited, therefore we advise that you only bring the essentials whilst staying with us, and we regret that we cannot offer fridge space for food or drinks.
Your birth partner
One birth partner is welcome to stay with you throughout the induction process, however we are unable to provide a bed or meals for them. We ask that your birth partner does not share your bed as there are safe weight limits for each bed and this may cause it to break; and sharing your bedspace in hospital can increase your chance of developing an infection.
Please ask your birth partner to update your family and friends on how you are getting on as staff cannot disclose personal confidential information over the phone
