10 Natural Remedies to Induce Labor

When we’re in the final stage of pregnancy, we may begin to feel a little desperate and the days may seem to go by more slowly. This may make us consider resorting to natural remedies in order to induce labor.

There are many natural methods for inducing labor that don’t harm the baby in any way and work well to speed up the process. Here are some of these effective methods:

Natural remedies to induce labor

As we mentioned earlier, the following are natural methods that won’t harm your baby or your body. However, you should always check with your doctor to discuss whether these methods will work for you.

1. Use relaxation techniques to relax your muscles and your body. The excess of nerves and stress can cause your muscles to contract and this won’t help when the baby comes out.

Additionally, nerves and anxiety can cause your body to produce adrenaline, which acts as an inhibitor to oxytocin, the hormone responsible for giving you contractions.

2. Exercising can help induce labor. Some experts say that walking can help speed up the birthing process due to the swinging of the hips.

In addition, going up and down stairs can also help. In general, exercise helps the baby get into the correct position.

3. Sexual intercourse can also help induce labor. Men’s sperm contains prostaglandins, hormones which dilate the cervix and thus help speed up the process.

In addition, an orgasm leads to the release of the hormone oxytocin, which causes contractions.

4. Other natural remedies, including pineapples, basil, oregano or ginger, can also induce labor naturally.

5. In many parts of Asia, acupuncture is used as a natural method to help induce labor. According to studies, women who use this method are less likely to have a cesarean section.

6. Acupressure also works very well to advance labor. It is a technique in which pressure is applied to several areas of the body and which stimulates uterine activity, causing the acceleration of childbirth.

7. The stimulation of the nipples is another act that can cause the body to release oxytocin, a hormone that is directly involved with contractions.

8. Raspberry leaf infusions. This type of infusion has the effect of stimulating the uterus. You can start with one cup a day and then increase progressively.

9. Chocolate can also help you. It can stimulate the baby and cause him or her to move, leading to a quicker labor.

10. Laughter also helps induce labor. Laughter generates oxytocin and also helps eliminate emotional and physical blocks. Try to watch movies or experience pleasant moments; this will help you release tension.

What might be delaying your labor?

Do you not know what could be affecting your birthing process? There are many things that can affect your labor and delivery.

In order to better understand the final stage of your pregnancy, it’s important that you be aware of the potential causes of delayed labor:

1. Labor can be delayed if you’re dehydrated or exhausted.
2. The position of the baby may not be conducive to labor.
3. You may feel anxious, scared, or be too tense.
4. Your pelvis may be narrower and longer than usual, which can cause the baby to be positioned back-to-back.
5. You may have had medical interventions that have slowed down your contractions.

Other techniques that can help you cope with slow labor

1. Listen to music that you like and that relaxes you.
2. Use breathing techniques. This can also help you relax.
3. It is important for you to not be dehydrated. Consume plenty of sports drinks, water, and other liquids.
4. Change positions whenever you can.

It is important to know what natural remedies can work to induce labor, as well as what may be delaying the process. Additionally, be sure to always heed the advice of other moms.