‘Tis the Season – to not be induced

Did you know there is a correlation between holiday due dates and induction rates?

In no way am I against inductions, provided when they are medically necessary. Inductions are a great option to avoid cesarean birth when needed.

However, inductions come with some risks and when they are recommended for non-medical purposes (like your due date being inconvenient for your provider)  - there is good reason to pause and do some research.

For example, this chart (originally published in Medical Daily) shows the most and least common birthdays, and it is no surprise to us doulas that the least common birthdays fall around major holidays.

It is common to receive pressure from providers and family members to schedule baby’s birthday around travel or festivities and it can feel really compelling to take the mystery out of a due date and just make it happen. 

I am passionate about educating pregnant people about the benefits and risks of an induction, empowering them to ask better questions to healthcare providers to understand if an induction is actually medically necessary. Whether you decide to consent to an induction or not, my hope for you is that you make your decision from an informed place – verses an emotional reaction stemming from fear or convenience.

You can grab the free guide here.