I am 36 1/2 weeks pregnant and dilated to a 4 already. My first 2 children came extremely fast (1 1/2 hours and 32 minutes). the dr said I could do a voluntary induction at 38 weeks if I dont go into labor before then. my inlaws will be out of town....it is their first grandchild...and I get the distinct feeling they will be upset if I induce while they are gone. I am uncomfortable and terrified I will have this baby at home! as soon as I hit 38 weeks I am DONE being pregnant! Is there a away I can let them know it isnt about them? i am not even enjoying being pregnant right now because I am so terrified of going into labor and not making it to the hospital and having my husband miss it.
I don't see what the big deal is, since you could have your baby on your own (without induction)at 38 weeks, anyway. And who knows, you just might... Would they be upset with you then? If it's so important to them, why are they going out of town during your last month of pregnancy, when anything could happen?
I would be completely straightforward with your in-laws. Explain that you understand that they might be upset if you intentionally deliver when they're out of town but that you have to make a decision based not on your convenience or theirs but on what's best for your baby. If your doctor feels that it is best to indice at 38 weeks, because of concerns about such a fast delivery that it wouldn't be safest for you or baby, then that's what's best.
Maybe there's something you could do for them--like promise they'll be the first ones you call or something special--or maybe there's something special they could do for you--like bringing you a welcome-home meal after you get home from the hospital--that would make it feel special for them. But I think they will understand that you're doing what's best for baby, not for them. Just be honest!
I'm guessing your in-laws made their plans knowing that you were pregnant. After 36 weeks it could happen anytime, so I say if they aren't there for the big day. Oh, well. They can see the baby when they get home. He will still be very newborn. P.S. I hope they accept all your children as their grandchildren, otherwise there could be some big problems down the road.
I agree with the other posts, you should do what's best (and most comfortable) for you and your baby. And who knows? Maybe the baby will come on its own before you are induced. Birth and labor aren't always controllable, but if you can do something to help your labor go well for you then do it. I can only imagine how nervous you must feel about this baby coming faster than you'd like and I bet if you explain this to your inlaws they'll understand. Plus after the baby arrives there will be plenty of time for everyone to meet and enjoy your new little boy. Good luck and congratulations!
Your life, your baby. They can deal with it.
Why not start doing things at home to get things going? take long walks, sex, nipple stimulation.... there are lots of natural ways to induce labor. My kids were all born before 38 weeks and are all healthy. Aaron at 37 weeks, Thomas at 36 weeks, and Molly at 36 1/2 weeks If you are allready at a four it would not take much to get the contractions going. Then noone can really be upset if you go into labor now. Not that I would care if my inlaws would get mad or not. It's not about them.
