I’m 50% effaced, 1-2cm dilated with high bp

Cervical ripening just means your cervix is more favourable for dilation to take place. How many weeks are you? If you mean the pitocin drip then you shouldn’t be scared by it. I had it with my first child and everything went well. At the time of discussing induction options the midwife and Dr said that it can be unpredictable meaning you can go into active labour very quickly however you will be checked on more frequently and of course you can always ring the buzzer if you feel you need more pain relief.

I’m 37+2. Don’t want pitocin because I plan on having an unmedicated birth (no epidural) and pitocin can sometimes make contractions too strong

Ok but pitocin isn’t the only option for induction. Have you been told you can only have pitocin?

they just told me after cervical ripening they would give it

Pitocin is an option for medical induction but it’s not the only one. If they have recommended only pitocin then there must be an actual medical reason for it. You do have a say in whether you are induced or not and how you are induced. No one can just tell you what they will do without receiving consent from you. You mention a ‘high bp’ in the subject line - is this relating to blood pressure, risk of pre-eclampsia?

high bp but no signs of pre eclampsia just gestational hypertension

I think you should speak to all those involved in your care about options for induction so that you can consider everything and make an informed decision.