Self Induction of Labor

Why Use Self Induction of Labor Methods

If a woman has passed her due date, induced labor methods may be on the table for discussion. Although there are advantages to inducing labor medically (often with the synthetic hormone pitocin), there are also disadvantages often associated with it, such as restricted movement, increased need for fetal monitoring, and increased contraction pain. Stripping the membranes is also a method doctors and hospitals may use to start labor, however, this method should never be used as a self induction technique. Inserting anything into the vaginal canal can be very dangerous in late pregnancy and create risk of infection and other complications, so do not attempt to strip your membranes on your own.

As an alternative to inducing labor in a hospital setting, many women prefer to try natural labor induction. If a woman is close to her full term due date, using home methods to induce labor can bring about labor sooner and make the labor go more quickly, as well. Self induction of labor should be avoided by women whose baby has not fully developed and who are not at or past full term.

Ways to Self Induce Labor

Always discuss any natural labor induction techniques you intend to try with your doctor or practitioner to avoid any risks or complications. Common ways of home labor inducing include the following:

Walking

Walking is one of the easiest and most effective ways of inducing labor. The force of gravity pulls the weight of the baby further towards the birth canal and can help to begin or speed up effacement and dilation. When you walk in late labor:

• Avoid over exerting yourself by taking breaks when you need to.
• Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
• Walk in safe, level, and well lighted areas.
• Walk with your partner or a friend or relative to be safe and have company.

Other movement, such as swimming, gentle stretching, or other low-impact exercise can have a similar effect in speeding up or bringing on labor and childbirth.

Nipple Stimulation

Nipple stimulation is another way to induce labor naturally. Extended stimulation of the nipple makes the body produce oxytocin, a hormone that can cause uterine contractions. In order for this method to be effective, it may require extensive stimulation, such as fifteen minutes every hour for several hours. This method may be uncomfortable for many women, particularly those with sore or swollen breasts.

Intercourse

If your doctor has not prohibited intercourse, this is another method that may speed up the process of labor. The composition of semen includes prostaglandins, which may increase the effacement of the cervix. Orgasms during intercourse can also produce oxytocin to stimulate contractions.

Foods to Bring on Labor

Although there is no hard evidence that certain [[Pregnancy Diet Guidelines | foods]] are responsible for inducing labor, many women have associated certain foods or ingredients in foods with bringing on labor. In reality, these foods may be bowel stimulants that cause dietary tract contractions that many women confuse with uterine cramping.

Foods commonly claimed as having an association with bringing on labor include:

• Pizza and other Italian foods
• Mexican or other spicy foods
• Tropical fruits
• Eggplant

Massage and Acupressure

Massage may help labor begin or progress.

Massage and acupressure, placing pressure on certain "trigger points" on the body, are also linked to inducing labor. Visit Dr. Marsha Connor's acupressure page for specific techniques to use on the hands and feet.

Whether or not the pressure from body massage will actually induce labor, it does serve to relax the body which may expedite the labor process.

T Touch

T Touch is a physical therapy designed by therapist Linda Tellington-Jones in 1983. This therapy was originally designed for animals, but has been adapted to help people cope with physical pain as well as anxiety and other issues. Its use in labor helps the body relax, which, similar to massage, may allow the labor to progress more easily. Visit the T Touch website for more information and techniques.

Herbs that Induce Labor

Since herbs can be as dangerous as synthetic drugs when not administered properly, they should be used to induce labor only by a midwife experienced with herbal therapies or a licensed herbalists. Additionally, dosages of these herbs are not regulated by the FDA and the side effects are not well-known.

Substances associated with bringing on labor include:

• Blue or Black Cohosh
• Goldenseal
• Squaw vine
• Red raspberry leaf
• Cramp bark
• False unicorn root
• Motherwort
• Evening primrose oil

Castor oil is sometimes associated with self induction of labor, however, this technique has not been proven to be effective and has been shown to create intense abdominal discomfort.

Remember to discuss your plans for self-inducing labor with your healthcare provider and only use methods that have been determined to be safe..