This article discusses the reasons behind inducing birth and the whether the need is sufficient to warrant ways to dilate faster. Also discussed are the most common and widely acclaimed solutions to invoke labor, with an emphasis on safety.



Reasons

There are many reasons that ways to dilate faster are a sought after topic.

If the child is overdue and is achieving a size that will complicate a smooth delivery, induction may be warranted. Another common reason is if the term has passed the 42 week mark. Intrauterine fetal growth retardation or (IUGR) carries a strong argument for inducing birth as it can lead to complications later on in life for the child in question.

The avoidance of certain health risks to the mother during pregnancy, namely "pre-eclampsia", is of paramount importance and would be a convincing factor for induction.Another strong argument for inducing labor is (PROM) or Premature rupture of the membranes. This is when labor has not begun within a specific timeframe, yet the membranes have already ruptured.Fetal death in utero is quite obviously compel medical staff to induce and is not really relavant here, but mentioned for completeness.



Precautions

Induction is discussed widely as if it is condoned, even encouraged by the medical profession, which is a gross exaggeration on a whole. Induced labor can be rather painful for women and in so doing warrants an increased need for pain relieving pharmaceuticals, or analgesics. This in turn has been demonstrated to increase the likelihood of the need for a caesarean section, in order to deliver the child.

Induced labor should therefore only be an option when significant medical reasons are in play and not for personal convenience, as seems to be the case more and more in this day and age.

When refering to "personal convenience", I of course not just refering to the patient, but the doctor too.



Methods

By far the most graphic sounding method is the method referred to as "membrane sweeping". This method comprises, the midwife seperating or stimulating the membranes around the baby from the cervix.

This results in a release of prostaglandins which are known to kick start labor. Breaking the water, or artificially rupturing the membranes (ARM) is another method that will not be discussed in detail here.

Pharmaceutically enhanced methods include, applying prostaglandin, such as dinoprostone or misoprostol to the cervix, and intravenously administering of synthetic oxytocin, such as Pitocin.

There are more "natural" methods available to induce labor, such as the use of herbs, reflexology, accupressure, sex and castor oil. Although these methods all have their individual loyal following, they never the less have no real proven safety and so should not be attempted without consultation with a physician. 

Having said that, it does appear that the most popular and widely regarded as the safest method is, accupressure.

If this method appeals to you, then please feel free to check these reviews on expert packages and advice.



Conclusion

Unless medically necessary, no method of induction should be attempted before the 37 week mark of gestation. In fact, all attempts at ways to dilate faster should be accompanied by your doctor.