Before contractions or Pitocin even start, there’s one crucial step in an induction — cervical ripening.In this episode, we break down exactly how the cervix is prepared for labor and what to expect during this process. We cover:What cervical ripening actually meansThe most common methods, including Cervidil, Foley and Cook catheters, and Misoprostol (Cytotec)What each option feels like, how they’re used, and what the evidence says about their effectivenessTips for comfort, expectations, and how your care team decides which method is right for youThis is Part 1 of our Inductions of Labor series — tune in next week to hear what happens after your cervix is ripe, in Part 2: Pitocin and Active Labor.

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