Pregnancy is a beautiful time on one hand, but also a challenging time on the other. As the time to have a baby approaches, there is great hope and a little fear in the mind. Even if you have a certain idea of how the baby will be born, sometimes the baby's plans can change. Therefore, it is very normal to have some uncertainties when the baby is born.
Usually, the body produces hormones that are needed to deliver the baby, the uterus starts to contract (pain) and the cervix opens. But sometimes, you may not have pain until close to or after your due date. This delay can sometimes pose health risks to you and your baby. This is when doctors suggest using medication to stimulate your hormones and speed up this process.
What is Pitocin®? What does it do?
During the last stages of pregnancy, your body produces a hormone called oxytocin . This hormone stimulates the muscles of the uterus, causes labor, and begins the process of childbirth. Simply put, Pitocin® is a synthetic version of the natural hormone oxytocin.
Doctors use this when it is necessary to artificially induce labor. When this medicine is given into the body through a vein (like a saline solution), it naturally causes pain and the uterus to start contracting . This means that it mimics the natural process and helps the baby to be born.
Why does the doctor decide to artificially induce pain?
Not everyone wants to be put through this kind of pain. The doctor makes this decision after considering many factors, such as your and your baby's health, the baby's weight, size, and how far along the pregnancy is. Remember, sometimes it can be dangerous for the baby to stay in the womb longer. That's when this method is used.
Let's see what the main reasons are in the table below.
| The cause of pain | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Delayed labor | If it has been two weeks or more since the baby was born. |
| Broken Water | If your water has broken, but you haven't started to feel any pain for several hours, this could mean that the amount of amniotic fluid around your baby has decreased. |
| Infections of the uterus | For example, if an infection such as chorioamnionitis occurs. |
| High blood pressure | Conditions such as gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, or chronic high blood pressure during pregnancy. |
| Gestational Diabetes | Diabetes can cause complications such as an enlarged baby. |
| Placental problems | A serious condition such as placenta detachment. |
| Other health problems | Other medical conditions, such as maternal obesity or kidney disease. |
What are the risks of using Pitocin®?
Pitocin® works like a hormone in our bodies, but like any medicine, it has some risks. But these don't happen to everyone. Doctors are well aware of these risks, which is why you and your baby are constantly monitored .
The most important thing is that this medication should only be used if the doctor determines that the benefits of using it far outweigh the potential risks.
| Possible risk | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Baby's heart rate drops | Sometimes, if the pain becomes severe, it can affect the baby's oxygen supply. That's why the baby's heartbeat is constantly checked. |
| Infections | There is a very small chance of infection of the membranes surrounding the baby. |
| Ruptured Uterus | This is a very rare occurrence, especially for those who have had a previous cesarean section. |
| Heavy bleeding after childbirth | After having a baby, you may bleed more than normal. |
If these medical problems arise, you may need to have an emergency cesarean section (C-section) . And, very rarely, the uterus may even need to be removed.
Another thing is, sometimes trying to inflict pain in this way can fail. It has a 25 out of 100 chance of failing.
So is Pitocin® really safe?
Yes. In short, Pitocin® is the safest method of artificially inducing labor when used under medical supervision . It is successful in 75 out of 100 cases.
However, there are a few things to be careful about:
- More stress: The pain caused by Pitocin® can feel a little more intense and continuous than natural labor. This can be a little more difficult for the mother to bear, and it can also cause some stress for the baby.
- Constant monitoring: Because this medication is given intravenously and the baby's heartbeat needs to be monitored continuously, you will need to stay in bed. Your freedom to move around and change positions will be limited. This may also slightly increase the chance of having to have a cesarean section.
- Unnecessary Use: Even the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends against using this for reasons other than medical reasons, such as simply trying to speed up the process of having a baby. This decision should always be made after weighing the pros and cons.
Especially for a mother who is expecting her first baby, this painful process can be a bit long and uncomfortable.
Are there times when Pitocin® cannot be given?
Yes, this method is not suitable for everyone. It is very important to talk to your doctor about your options for having a baby throughout your pregnancy. Pitocin® is not recommended for low birth weight babies.
- If the placenta is blocking the cervix.
- If the baby is not in the correct position. For example, if the baby is in a breech position or transverse position.
- If you have previously had a cesarean section or other uterine surgery (this medication is often not given at this time due to the risk of uterine rupture).
- If you have an active genital herpes infection.
- If the umbilical cord has entered the vagina ( umbilical cord prolapse ).
If both mother and baby are healthy and doing well, and attempts to induce labor fail, your doctor may tell you to go home, rest, and try again in a few days or a week. If you can't induce labor within a certain amount of time, you may eventually have to have a cesarean section.
Take-Home Message
- Pitocin® is a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin, which is produced naturally in the body and is used to start or speed up the process of childbirth.
- This is not used just for convenience, but for specific medical reasons, such as when there is a risk to the health of the mother or baby.
- Like all medications, there are benefits and risks. This decision should be made after discussing all the factors with your doctor.
- This method is not suitable for everyone. Whether or not it is offered depends on factors such as the baby's position and the mother's previous surgeries.
- It is your right to openly discuss any fears, doubts, or questions you may have with your doctor.
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