How to ripen a cervix?

[ratchit]

Hi all.

I'm at the end of a pregnancy complicated by PIH. Baby is (to everyone's shock and pleasure!) fine, but at 36+ weeks I'm maxed out on meds and baby's eviction notice is coming soon. No signs of PTL, baby's high, cervix is closed. The idea of a c-section is being shoved down my throat by my OB, my family, and my friends. Frankly, I'm getting really sick of people who aren't having surgery telling me that it's no big deal to have a section and I'd love to hear any advice on how I can avoid this. Baby will be arriving early and I know that a section might be necessary, but if it's safe, I'd really like to try an induction first.

My OB says he is not ruling out an induction but he doubts it would work with 'such an unfavorable cervix'. I want to discuss at least trying the induction one more time with him- and I'm very willing to accept limits on how long it goes, progression, etc. I won't put baby or myself in danger, I just want any surgery I have to be necessary, not elective.

So.... Since my unfavorable cervix is the thing he thinks is most likely to cause me to need a section, is there anything I can do to help my cervix progress at 36-37 weeks? I can't walk much/run/swim because of the BP, and DH is afraid to come near me so that's out, too. LOL

I know there's a no medical advice rule on the board and it makes perfect sense. I will run suggestions past my OB before trying anything, I've just seen that going to him with specific suggestions gets more results.

Thanks, all!