Natural Induction (For Full-Term Babies Only)

by Kimmama | More from this Blogger

20 Jun 2009 04:17 AM

My last few weeks of pregnancy were really uncomfortable, so naturally I looked into ways to go into labor sooner. I tried everything, except for Castor oil. (As eager as I was to have a baby, I was not willing to spend the whole day in the ladies' room.) Before I list off your options for giving your baby a notice of evacuation, know that none of these worked for me. The only thing that finally got labor rolling was Pitocin. But, some women insist these work, so maybe they work for some women and not others.

Walking/Stairs The theory is that if the baby is down far enough, walking and taking the stairs will bounce the baby's head on the cervix, which could trigger and help labor progress.

Squatting Squatting may not help labor start, but it may help the baby engage by opening up the pelvis.

Pressure Points (Acupressure) There are a few points on your ankles, that if pressed, may trigger contractions.

Eating Fresh Pineapple or Mango The fresher, the better. The enzymes in these fruits supposedly begin labor and ripen the cervix. Even if this one doesn't work, fresh fruit is delicious and healthy for you, too.

Sex The prostaglandins found in semen ripen and soften the cervix, though it's debatable whether they really make a difference. Sex can also relax a pregnant woman, which can help her progress in early labor. There's no harm in trying!

Acupuncture With a success rate of 88% in inducing overdue mothers, I'd say give it a try if you can get over your fear of needles.

Evening Primrose Oil EPO imitates prostaglandin. It can be used orally or internally.

Nipple Stimulation Use a breast pump or your fingers to stimulate your nipples for 20 minutes, then take a break. Just be forewarned that nipple stimulation may cause contractions that are too intense.

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea Take Red Raspberry Leaf for uterine health and to benefit breastmilk production.

Spicy Food Spicy food or curry is the method of choice for some women to induce labor. I wouldn't recommend it if it gives you diarrhea or heartburn, however.

Learn more about Kimmama

Kim is a freelance writer and stay at home mom to her newborn, Micah. She has been married to her husband, Eric, since 2006.

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