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August 2026 Babies 🇬🇧

Bad experience with Consultant regarding induction (Rant + questions at the end re: induction, consultant, gestational diabetes)

I had my 36 week appt with my consultant on Wednesday. It was my first time meeting my consultant as she has been absent for any other meeting. As baby had turned head down, she told me I would have an induction at 39 weeks and started to fill out the paper work to give me the date.

I asked before we make any decisions to have information on all options. She began challenging me and almost belittling me stating that there were no other options unless I go into spontaneous labour. Although, from my understanding C-section and sweeps to encourage spontaneous labour were possibilities. I told her more than once this wasn’t me saying no to an induction, but I wanted to have all the information beforehand (I’ve been encouraged by every healthcare professional so far to make informed decisions - and I was trying!).

I didn’t go in empty handed, I had an understanding of the benefits and dangers relating to any option but I was told I was being ridiculous considering my sources were online (scientific articles and journals) and discussing with people their own experiences. I was told I should only be speaking to medical professionals, which I reminded her I was currently trying to do. In response, she flippantly described to me what an induction was as if it was making a cup of tea. At this point my midwife stepped in and showed empathy and handed me some leaflets to help with gaining more information where needed and rearranged the meeting for the week coming.

I’ve heard the argument from all sides as my partner tried to play devils advocate. I totally understand consultants are experienced and know what’s best, but all I wanted to do was make sure I also understood what was best for me. I’m quite a passive person and felt I was being steamrolled which was very overwhelming. It’s my first baby and I haven’t had the most straightforward pregnancy and this is the first negative experience I’ve had with anyone I’ve come across medically since being pregnant.

So rant over.. but, I was wondering:

1. Has anyone had a similar experience with their consultant and how to address this? (I don’t want animosity with the person who will be vital during my labour)
2. What are your experiences of labour with gestational diabetes?
3. What is your experiences with induction? How can I prepare (mentally and physically!)?

If you’d prefer to share privately I’m happy to message, posting anonymous as I’m clearly ranting about a certain individual 🫣 (and she scares me a little at this point..)