Baby #2 Update

We had a doctor's appointment today. I am now 40 weeks and 4 days pregnant. I was hoping for some great progress to report, but everything is the same as it was last week...and the week before. My cervix is not dilated, baby is high up and I'm measuring 43 centimeters. Based on my last pregnancy (10 days over, labor starting with my water breaking at home and then Pitocin needed to get contractions going) it just doesn't look like my body wants to go into labor on its own. I think my uterus is like a spa retreat for these little girls and they just don't see any reason to come out!

Although I really wanted the experience of contractions starting at home, on my own, I really want a healthy baby, labor and delivery (without a c-section) even more. I just feel like if we push this longer, it could still end up with me needing an induction and the baby would just be that much bigger (and harder to push out). Current estimates are already over 8 lbs and every week adds another 1/2 lb. Ugg.

So, the plan is to go into the hospital on Friday night around 7:30pm to start my induction. That night, I will be given Cervidil to ripen my cervix and get it ready to handle the Pitocin that will induce labor contractions. If everything goes according to plan, Olivia's birthday will be Saturday, May 8th. May 8th...it has a nice ring to it, doesn't it? I will be sharing several Mother's Day's with Olivia's Birthday over the years just like Jeff will be sharing Father's Day's with Emilia's Birthday. Another fun fact, the forecast for Friday / Saturday is a COMPLETE contract to what the weather was like when Emilia was born. With Emilia (June 2007), it was almost 100 degrees when we were at the hospital. This weekend it will be in the mid 30's! Burrrr.

So that's it. I do feel a little bit like I'm giving in, but based on the lack of progress and my history of an overdue baby that still needed a "push", we feel like this is the healthiest way to go. Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers and comments while we wait and wait and wait. Keep the prayers coming! We'll all get to see her soon!!!!