The following are a few scenarios about labours that may have needed to be augmented, and some suggested strategies to possibly assist in similar situations.
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The waters have broken but the contractions won’t start
If your waters are clear, and your caregiver is flexible, you may be able to go into the hospital for a check up and a CTG trace of the baby’s heartbeat. All being well, you could negotiate to go home for a while. This will take the pressure off you to ‘perform’. You may like to try some natural therapies, (check with your caregiver). If these are unsuccessful, you may need to consider the options of medications such as an oxytocin drip.
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The contractions are weak, short and infrequent
Rest if tired, re-hydrate yourself, have some food, or sweet snacks. Walk around. Try nipple stimulation, acupressure or other natural therapies (check with your caregiver). Visualise the contractions being strong, the cervix thinning, opening and pulling up. Get out of the bath (if being used), or wait until the Pethidine wears off. Have your waters broken, if they are still intact. Wait to see if this stimulates stronger contractions, and cervical opening. If this is unsuccessful, then you may need to consider an oxytocin drip.
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