Hi,

Induction can be necessary but sometimes it is not. When you feel it is not and your baby and you are healthy a later induction up to 3 weeks after the due date is possible. This would be the "extreme" other end of the spectrum. Remember that unless you were charting when you became pregnant your "due date" can be significantly off base. One more thing to remember is that inducing leads to higher rates of c-section. That being said sometimes it is the best course of action. The hospital can do nothing if you decide not to induce. Most hospitals have a 10 day after due-date induction policy.

Natural induction methods are a great alternative. Everyone's favourite is of course SEX. Lots and lots of sex. Both partners should orgasm as the hormones released from female orgasm are the exact ones doctors have tried to replicate and thus created the drug for induction. Sperm also have this same hormone and work to dilate the cervix. This is the most tried and true method. Try this six or seven times...an hour. (Okay that may be a lot...don't hurt yourself!)

Other methods are eating castor oil and there are also some various teas. Excersize also helps. So take a walk.

Good luck. Listen to your baby's heart rate. Always do what you think is right.