Does the doctor say they have to induce labor? Many pregnant women are wanting labor induction after 40 weeks being pregnant, and need ways to induce labor – either medically or naturally.
Ways to induce labor fall in one of two categories: medically or naturally.
The medical ways to induce labor include “stripping” or using drugs. One such drug is called pitocin, and is usually the one used by OB/GYNs to start contractions.
For pregnant women looking for home based ways to induce labor, there are many different options.
Just remember that although pregnancy is hard, inducing labor too soon is not what you want to do. It can lead to complications for both the baby and you, and several doctors will not even consider it before 41 weeks. Keep this in mind.
Easy Ways to Induce Labor Yourself
Practice Relaxation – Being stressed out is difficult on a pregnant woman’s body. If you keep this extra stress – even if it’s just working too hard – you might be stopping your contractions from starting. Whatever you do that will safely reduce your stress can lead to a more stable environment and keep you focused.
Physical Movement – Labor requires that the baby be in a proper position. In some cases, just doing light physical activity such as jogging or yoga is enough to get your baby to descend.
Food Remedies – Some women are adamant that having a spicy plate of Mexican or Thai food kick-started their labor. Some research also suggests that various enzymes in pineapples or mangoes lead to the ripening of women’s cervixes. This can bring on labor. If you consider yourself a gourmand, this is one of the more enjoyable ways to induce labor!
Use Acupressure – Like acupuncture (but easier!), acupressure involves the manipulation of certain pressure points on your body. It has it’s roots in Chinese medicine, and recent medical research prove it can induce labor. Acupressure can be done at home.
Natural Hormones – If your doctor started your labor, chances are they would begin using a drug called pitocin to start contractions. Interestingly enough, pitocin is a synthetic version of the human hormone known as oxytocin. Your body makes oxytocin daily. To encourage it’s release, try rubbing your nipples. This can cause a flood of natural oxytocin and perhaps induce labor.
Just a friendly reminder: If you have complications or feel something is very wrong, please talk to your doctor or doula about your concerns.
Those are the primary ways to induce labor yourself. If you want simple and effective ways to get your contractions started, I recommend these.
