Archive for July, 2010
Natural Ways to Induce Labor
Natural Ways to Induce Labor
Labor will only start when YOUR body is ready. However, you may be 40+ weeks pregnant and ready to have your baby. It is best to remember that a full term pregnancy is any where between 38 to 42 weeks. If your patience is wearing thin and you are desperate to try natural ways to induce labor then these are some good things to try. Consult your midwife as she may have some other ideas as well.
Nipple Stimulation
This can be done by using a breast pump or your husband! Your husband will probably be most delighted to suck on or play with your nipples. With nipple stimulation your body will produce the love chemical know as oxytocin which can alert your body that it is time to give birth.
Orgasms
The same way a baby gets in your body is the same way it is going to come out. Meaning when you have intercourse and reach orgasm your body is creating and releasing a love chemical know as oxytocin. Semen contains prostaglandins which help ripen the cervix, so intercourse may be helpful in preparing the body for labor. Maybe intercourse is a bit challenging for you at this time then be creative (use a vibrator) to reach orgasm and oxytocin will be released.
Acupuncture
A trip to your acupuncturist may be just what you need to jump start your labor. Acupuncture is usually very relaxing for mom-to-be. All you have to do is lye down and relax while some one else takes care of you.
Herbs
Your midwife is the best one to consult on which herbs to use to help induce labor. She may recommend Black Cahosh and or Blue Cahosh. If you are going to use herbs, use them cautiously. And remember, if your cervix is not ready these herbs will not help you go into labor. If it is ripe, the best thing to do is be patient. I know it’s harder than it sounds.
Castor Oil
The theory behind using castor oil to induce labor is that it causes intestinal cramping and diarrhea, which stimulate the uterus, thus producing prostaglandins, which then cause contractions. Keep in mind castor oil does not taste good and this may not be the most pleasant way to induce labor and it may not work.
Walking
Walking is important throughout your entire pregnancy! It is also very useful to get labor going and during labor. When you are walking you are using gravity to help put pressure on your cervix thus ripening it and preparing to birth your baby. With every step you take to the bathroom, remember you’re one step closer to labor!
The bottom line is to be patient and realize that your body knows when to go into labor. It may be difficult but relax and know that you will not be pregnant forever, even if it feels like it at this moment.