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There are many decisions you may find yourself making when you are in labor. Two of the most common areas of concern are Induction and Procedures suggested by your caregiver.

 

Induction - the Bishop Score

This is the table used to determine how successful an induction of labor might be. It is recommended that the Bishop's Score be greater than 9 for induction to be successful. If your caregiver is suggesting an induced labor, this will help you determine how successful the induction will be.

To ensure the success of your own induction, inquire about your Bishop Score or better yet learn each part of the score and figure it out for yourself. Being informed will help you make your decision.

Cervix

Score

 

0

1

2

3

Position

Posterior

Mid-position

Anterior

---

Consistency

Firm

Medium

Soft

---

Effacement

0-30

40-50

60-70

>80

Dilation (cm)

Closed

1-2

3-4

>5

Station

-3

-2

-1

+1, +2

 Source: Modified from Romney S et al, editors: Gynecology and Obstetrics: The Health Care of Women, ed 2, New York, 1981, McGraw Hill

 

Procedure Questions - Things to ask your caregiver beforehand

  1. Do we need to decide immediately?
  2. What are the benefits to this procedure?
  3. What are the risks & side effects:
  4. Will the benefits outweigh the side effects?
  5. What additional procedures are likely to occur as a result of this?
  6. What are the alternatives?
  7. What would happen if I waited an hour or two before doing this or didn't do it at all?