Today, I walked away from my scheduled induction.
Why?
Because as a patient in charge of my own medical decisions I had the right to; because baby is looking healthy, growing, and moving appropriately; because my blood pressure has remained consistent (though still elevated, it has been controlled without medication and has not spiked to stroke territory); and most importantly, because I had a lot peace about leaving the hospital today still pregnant.
I feel I have learned a lot through the past 3 1/2 years of child bearing.
#1 — Pregnancy is a huge exercise in selflessness. It is about learning to lay down my comfort and priorities for the sake of another life.
#2 — My body was designed to do this job. Even when it seems like it is not doing its job. Each pregnancy I have had to battle my blood pressure, even when I eat well and exercise often. It is just how my body deals with all the extra stuff going on inside me. That does not mean that I have to go along with every intervention the medical community throws my direction.
#3 — I am in charge, and ultimately responsible, for my and my children’s health. Not inducing labor before I am even at my due date is just as much my choice as going through with it. And the consequences of each choice are mine to own. So it really comes down to what *I* feel right about doing after considering all options and outcomes.
I did not want to induce labor with this baby for many reasons that I am not going to go into right now. However, considering that this time I have not shown any other signs (aside from high blood pressure) of preeclampsia, I feel comfortable allowing my little one to stay longer in “Hotel Mommy” and continuing to keep a close eye on my blood pressure levels from home.
So that is my update, and that is why none of you have heard from me in a while. I have been keeping things low-key and working with my midwives and doula to encourage and prepare for labor, and come up with a plan for birth that we are all happy with. I guarantee to all of you that when baby begins to make his way into the world, I will be posting updates and pictures like I always do. Until then, I need to continue to focus on keeping baby and myself safe, healthy, and happy. And I am quite sure that it will not be much longer before we get to meet the little man.
Anyway, Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow to you all! I hope you are able to find something to be thankful for, as I am thankful for each of you and your thoughts and prayers through these final days of pregnancy.
