At least someone got to use the birthing pool

Officially overdue. Officially having contractions for over a month. Officially going crazy.

I reached my limit on Friday and decided I'd induce with castor oil. I called my midwife and she agreed I could do it. She warned it didn't always work, but given the state of my cervix, she didn't see how it wouldn't work for me. Famous last words.

If you're not familiar with castor oil induction, here's the quick overview. You drink a few ounces of disgusting oil and then wait to get sick. The movement of your bowels often stimulates contractions in your uterus. And if you're close to labor, this can be the jumpstart to getting labor moving.

So, yea, I took the castor oil. Apparently I have an iron stomach because I had to double up the dose in order for anything to happen. Eventually after like 6 hours I got sick. Then the contractions started. I had 4 hours of contractions exactly 5 minutes apart. But they never got closer together and they never got stronger and eventually I went to bed dehydrated and still pregnant.

I'm not sure what's next. I'm trying to be patient, but I am pretty sure I'm heading for some unwanted interventions next week if the baby doesn't come quickly. It's just a feeling. But, given the baby's size - at least 9 pounds (my guess) and my blood pressure and swelling, I think the baby will need to come out one way or another in the next few days.

 I'm feeling fairly calm now - Friday was my breaking point. Lots of tears. Zen has now returned. At least for the moment.

Comments

[becky]

oh poor cute. i have no words of advice, i would be flipping out in your situation. you're holding together so well! i'm amazed at how well you're doing. The castor oil experiment sounds awful -- all that expectation and no result for one thing, for another, yuck and double yuck -- and yet you're hanging tough. i'm thinking about you -- if there is any way to stay zen, do it. i can't think of anyone who deserves whatever they want more than you!

[Amy]

Talk about the wait from hell. I hope your little one arrives SOON. Like now.

[Abby Klemmer]

I never realized that Spencer had such beautiful curly hair! Cute pic!

As for the overdue-ness.... I wish I had sage advice, but I don't.... hope that baby comes SOON!