Induced?

Is being induced bad? I was induced with my first at 39 weeks. The insurance I have now won't allow me to be induced... how bad is it waiting on baby to come naturally? I'm 38 weeks tommorow and have cramps and Braxton hicks daily and I'm 3 cm.. In so much pain... is there anyway I can help my progress? I don't want to go over because everyone I know that they have let go to 42 weeks has had problems with babies health. I just want my little guy to be healthy...