Did it work?

I previously announced that I was going to be induced early Monday morning however that was not the case. First of all my mom was out of town and her flight did not come in until 11:30 am so we did not have anyone to watch the kids. Secondly, Paul, who had injured his ankle several weeks ago playing basketball, was in need of some X-rays as it became quite swollen and seriously aggravated after all our walking and hiking trying to throw me into labor. Luckily there was no sign of a fracture so he was sent on his way with a brace. The problem was his car battery was completely dead. He spent an hour waiting for AAA and then another hour at the car dealership getting his dashboard re-set. By this time there were no beds available for me to be induced. But I was somewhat relieved as I was still hoping to go into labor myself. I went in for another NST and was happy everything still looked great but was advised to schedule my induction for the following morning. I really did not want to get induced - I had to have pitocin with Clara's delivery and did not want to go through that again.

After trying all the natural methods to get labor started there was only one thing left to do - Castor Oil. I asked myself what could be worse castor oil or pitocin? The internet offered all sorts of recipes, horror stories and success stories which left me very indecisive. My midwife cautioned me but said it may be worth a try. So I stopped by the pharmacy and asked the clerk not to laugh at my single purchase. When I got home I was quick and efficient in doing laundry, feeding the kids, and tucking them in bed. I was restless and running out of time before my scheduled induction.

7:50 pm - Feeling somewhat desperate I mixed 1 oz. castor oil with 8 oz. of OJ quickly chugged it.

8:50 pm - No change so I mixed another 1 oz. castor oil with OJ and quickly chugged it. This time I had Saltines ready for the horrible texture and after taste.

9:50 pm - No change and almost in tears I packed my bag for the hospital and went to bed.

10:15 pm - I had to run to the bathroom. Two more of these episodes (though not too horrific) soon followed.

10:45 pm - I experienced one really hard contraction. I was so excited I woke up Paul and jumped out of bed only to discover I had just wet the bed or there was leaking fluid. I called my Mom not knowing what to do and my Dad who had also picked up the phone was wise in telling me "Stop messing around and get to the hospital".

10:55 pm - My Mom was over and there was no doubt my water was breaking. I had gone through three outfits in that time. I grabbed some sweats and an old PENN t-shirt of Paul's. My Mom who obviously has more experience than anyone was wise in handing me 2 size 5 Kirtland diapers and two bathtowels and urged me out the door. I was soaked by the time I climbed in the car and soon experiencing some very painful contractions. It was a memorable drive to the hospital. Paul almost missed the I-15 exit and I was anxious as I could tell the baby was coming quickly.

11:15 pm - We make it to the hospital. I refused the epidural and all pain medication but comforted knowing that Paul is a great and very experienced labor coach.

12:53 pm - Baby Henry is born. After all the weeks of waiting we joyfully meet him. I am exhausted but on a high - same feeling I had after finishing a marathon. Winded, almost floating and super hungry.

I am glad I held out for this quick, uncomplicated natural delivery. As for the castor oil, I'm not sure if I'd do try it again but then again you start to hit a somewhat crazy mind set when you reach day 12 of being overdue.

More than anything I am overwhelmed by the joy and blessing it is to have children. I also recognize that the pregnancy, labor and delievery is the easy part. The real test of my patience, endurance, and faith will come in the rasing of these precious children.