Unmedicated Birth: How to Have an Induction Without an Epidural

🗝️ From The Vault!

Every so often there is an episode I just cannot let sit in the archives, and this is one of them. 

It first aired in April 2022, and it is such a good one to bring back — because here is what I keep noticing: inductions are getting offered more and more, for more and more reasons.

Which is exactly why I tell every mom to understand what it would be like if an induction could happen, even if the goal is to not have one. That way, if it comes up, you are ready instead of scrambling.

So in this episode we get into what an induction actually is, the reasons one might land on the table (the truly necessary ones and the... not so much), all things Pitocin and why those contractions feel like their own beast, and the one thing that matters most when it comes to preparing. And if you end up wanting an epidural or leaning on another tool along the way, that is completely okay, but this episode will prep for how to do it unmedicated! None of this is about doing birth perfectly. It is about walking in informed and staying part of every decision. 

Here are some highlights from the episode:

• [6:15] What a medical induction actually is and what every mom should know about working through labor with pitocin, unmedicated (if that's the goal)!
• [7:25] The different induction methods explained simply: Pitocin, breaking your water, Cervidil, Cytotec, Foley bulb, and the Cook's catheter (and why I don't love Pitocin plus breaking your water alone)
• [10:48] The real reasons a mom might need an induction, and the ones that aren't so medically necessary
• [12:36] So many moms end up with an epidural during an induction — and why the number one reason why
• [16:00] All things Pitocin: how it's given, why those contractions feel SO different, and the mental game that comes with it
• [22:04] The single most important thing you can do to prepare for an induction
• [22:31] What a Bishop score is and how it predicts whether your induction will go smoothly
• [24:51] Supplements to prepare your body 
• [26:56] The physical and mental prep that makes the biggest difference
• [40:55] The difference between doing hard things and suffering, and why that line matters so much

Links Mentioned: 🔗 My Essential Birth Course: myessentialbirth.com/getstarted 🔗 3 Free Exercises: myessentialbirth.com/3-exercises 🔗 Dr. Christopher's Birth Prep Tinctures: https://amzn.to/3qzwqSC 🔗 Evening Primrose Oil: https://amzn.to/3qzwqSC 🔗 Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: https://www.amazon.com/Yogi-Womens-Raspberry-Leaf-Tea/dp/B00H3SXWIY/

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Let's Connect!Three exercises to help prepare you for your BEST birth: https://www.myessentialbirth.com/3-exercises Join t