But you can guarantee success in your birth space if you make a subtle shift in your focus . . .

Due dates are not an exact science. The Perinatal Institute reports that only about 4% of babies are born on their predicted "date". Most pregnancies last between 259 and 294 days (which is a difference of 35 days!)

Induction of labor (without valid medical necessity) increases the risk of cesarean section due to increasing risk of uterine hyperstimulation (too many contractions), fetal distress in labor (due to too many contractions), placental abruption, stalled labor progress (due to being hooked up to monitors or mom's body not being ready). Risk for postpartum bleeding also increases if Pitocin is used for a prolonged period.