How to Pump to Induce Labor
Pregnant women who reach their due dates are often eager for labor to begin. When done safely and correctly, nipple stimulation with a breast pump is an excellent way to help encourage active labor. Many women prefer to use a breast pump for nipple stimulation because it is easier than doing it by hand. Breast pumps are designed to mimic the sucking of a baby. This action causes the body to release the hormone oxytocin, which can cause contractions in a pregnant woman.
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Instructions
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1
Sterilize your breast pump. Be sure to check the instructions that came with your pump before boiling any of the parts or putting them in the dishwasher. Thoroughly washing the pump in warm, soapy water is usually sufficient. Allow time for the pump to dry.
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2
Apply nipple cream to your nipples and areolas (the dark area surrounding the nipples). This can help to prevent drying and cracking. Be sure to re-apply the nipple cream as often as needed.
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3
Pump one breast for approximately five minutes. If using an electric pump, start out with the suction setting on low. If using a hand pump, begin with slow, gentle pumps. You can increase the intensity of the pumping over time, but avoid getting too vigorous, as this may damage your nipples.
Stop pumping when a contraction begins, and resume pumping when the contraction ends. -
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Set your timer for one hour. While you wait for the next pumping session, stay mildly active. Laying around can slow labor, but over-exertion can lead to exhaustion during labor. Also, be sure to rinse your pump and put it someplace clean.
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5
Pump on the opposite breast when the timer goes off. Repeat the process as long as needed.
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Decrease time between pumping sessions if no results are experienced after a couple of hours. Do not pump for more than five minutes at a time and allow at least 15 minutes between sessions.
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Tips & Warnings
Nipple stimulation can result in over-production of oxytocin. Do not continue to pump if your contractions are less than three minutes apart or one minute in length.
Do not attempt any form of nipple stimulation if you are fewer than 40 weeks into your pregnancy.
