I'm thinking about giving birth without the epidural. I used it with my last three children, and it worked well with my daughters. However, with my son, it was a nightmare. They had to take me off the epidural when I was dilated at a 10 because I could not feel any contractions in order to push and the electronic fetal monitoring device strapped to my belly wasn't picking up my contractions. I have switched my doctor and hospital since then, and my new doctor said I do not have to wear the electronic monitoring device strapped around my belly this time around unless I get the epidural. Therefore, I think I'm going to tough it out and do it all unmedicated. What helped you when delivering without any medication? I'm planning to use a birthing ball and some other calming remedies like essential oils. Any advice is highly appreciated. 🙏💓
Monitoring Fetal Wellbeing
- Significance of Movement: Regular fetal movements, such as kicks, rolls, and stretches, are signs of an active, healthy baby. They indicate that your baby is getting enough oxygen and is well.
- Counting Kicks: Many healthcare providers recommend ‘kick counts’ as a way to monitor the baby’s activity. You should feel regular movements, typically counting at least 10 movements within 2 hours, but this can vary.
- Changes to Watch For: A noticeable decrease in fetal movement or a significant change in the baby’s activity pattern can be an early warning sign and should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.
- Regular Check-ups: During prenatal visits, your healthcare provider will check your baby’s heart rate. A normal fetal heart rate ranges from 110 to 160 beats per minute.
- Non-Stress Test: If there are any concerns about the baby’s activity or if you’re past your due date, a non-stress test might be conducted. This painless test monitors the baby's heart rate and movement to ensure they are healthy.
- Importance of Heart Rate Monitoring: Consistent heart rate patterns are indicators of a healthy, well-functioning cardiovascular system in the baby.
- Individual Differences: It’s important to understand that there’s variability in fetal activity and heart rate. Knowing your baby’s usual patterns can help in recognizing any significant changes.
- Consult Healthcare Providers: If you are unsure about what constitutes a normal movement pattern or heart rate for your baby, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
- Regular Monitoring: Make it a routine to monitor your baby’s movements, especially if you notice a decrease in activity.
- Seek Immediate Attention for Concerns: If you detect any concerning changes in movement or if a non-stress test indicates potential issues, your healthcare provider may suggest further evaluation, which could include ultrasound or additional monitoring.
Had the biggest scare of my life last night!!! Ended up in l&d for fetal monitoring because my clumsy butt tripped over a fan and landed directly on my belly. Thankfully she's okay! And still very much active! I'm a little sore today though. Gonna have to pick my feet up a bit more from now on!
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C section rate rose 81 percent when they started using fetal monitoring. You would think they were saving babies with that astronomical number. But now still birth only decreased I think like 2 percent.
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Look at how much c sections rose when they came out with the fetal monitoring? Anyone? Or yall just potatoes today? Lol I support that 2. I see Dominique on her toes today tho. Yall better catch up. 😤 😘
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Went to my OB today. Doc says they don’t do inductions unless medically necessary. She said that they also don’t do cervical checks let alone membrane sweeps. I would have to go sit in labor and delivery for 4+ hours for fetal monitoring. This all sucks. I won’t be able to know how dilated I am until I go into labor. She gave me the okay with trying to induce my own labor. However, only encourages walking.
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