I remember those final week well, I was so desperate for labour to start I’d try anything to get things going!
While there is no scientific evidence to back most of these methods, some have been used for centuries, and some are somewhat logical! Of course do listen to your body and don’t do anything that doesn’t feel good for you.
Here are ten surprising methods that some people have tried to induce labour naturally:
- Dancing: Dancing is a fun and effective way to encourage labour. Dancing can help loosen the pelvic muscles and stimulate the baby to move down towards the birth canal. Choose upbeat music and move in a way that feels good for you.
- Acupressure: Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to promote relaxation and encourage labour. Research shows that acupressure may help reduce the length of labour and decrease the need for medical interventions during delivery. Find a local acupuncturist that’s qualified to work with those who are pregnant.
- Nipple Stimulation: Nipple stimulation is one of the oldest methods used to induce labour naturally. When the nipples are stimulated, the hormone oxytocin is released, which can help to trigger contractions. Use a breast pump or gently massage the nipples.
- Walking: Walking can help the baby move down into the pelvis, and the pressure of the baby’s head on the cervix can stimulate contractions. Walking is also a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. As always listen to your body.
- Spicy Food: Spicy food is a popular remedy to induce labour naturally. The idea is that the heat from the spices can stimulate the digestive system, which in turn can stimulate the uterus. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, but if you enjoy curry then go for it!
- Raspberry Leaf Tea: Raspberry leaf tea is believed to help tone the uterus and encourage labour. The tea contains compounds that may help to stimulate the muscles in the uterus, making contractions stronger and more regular. There’s not any decent evidence to support this though!
- Sex: Sex may help to soften the cervix and stimulate contractions. Orgasm releases the hormone oxytocin, which can help to trigger contractions. Sex is safe during pregnancy unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
- Visualisation: Visualisation involves using the power of the mind to imagine the baby moving down towards the birth canal. It can help you be present and focus on baby. Using a hypnobirthing relaxation can help with this too.
- Evening Primrose Oil: Evening primrose oil is believed to help soften the cervix and promote labour. The oil contains a substance called prostaglandin, which is similar to the hormone that is used to induce labour artificially.
- Reflexology: Reflexology involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet and hands to promote relaxation and encourage labour. Research shows that reflexology may help to reduce the length of labour and decrease the need for medical interventions during delivery. Makes sure you go to a practitioner qualified to work with people who are pregnant.
In conclusion, these ten natural methods to induce labour may help to prepare the body for labour and delivery. However, it is essential to remember that every pregnancy is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult your doctor or midwife before trying any of these methods to ensure that they are safe for you and your baby.