If labor doesn't begin by Wednesday morning, they'll start Pitocin intravenously. Additionally, I will have an IV of insulin and will disconnect my pump throughout labor.

I've been assured that the Pitocin will be administered gradually. Many women have horror stories of the contractions they experienced with an induction because doctors and nurses rushed the process to meet their own schedules. Thankfully, my doctor doesn't share that philosophy!

Another consideration is the epidural block. Since induction does bring on contractions that aren't "natural," I am more open to having the epidural. Also, since there's always the chance that the baby will be large and thus we'll end up having a cesarean section, I'm more inclined to get the epidural during the induction. Since c-sections are medicated through an epidural, if I already have one inserted, we can transition to the operation more efficiently.

I'm keeping an open mind about labor. It's funny how you can spend several months learning about labor and birth, yet there are still so many unknown factors. I know what possible scenarios I face, but I don't have a clue what will actually materialize as our baby enters the world. I'm focusing on going with the flow and trying not to be disappointed if things don't go as I'd hoped.

Ultimately, I know that I've done all I can to prepare my body for a healthy labor and delivery. I also have the utmost faith in my doctors, nurses, and the medical care I'll receive. We've purchased all the baby gear, read all of our birthing books, and getting our home in order for a relatively smooth homecoming for us and the baby.

There's nothing left to do but to have this baby!