How to Jump-Start Labor
Sometimes labor must be induced. Under the careful supervision of a health care provider, there are some natural and synthetic practices that may give labor a jump-start. Follow these steps to help induce labor safely.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Sports Apparel & Shoes
- Hand Or Wash Towels
- Teas
- Castor Oil
- Cleansing Enemas
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1
Have intercourse. Female orgasms may stimulate the first uterine contractions. Also, semen contains the hormone prostaglandin, which may soften the cervix, encouraging the beginning of labor.
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2
Have an enema and/or drink castor oil, both of which stimulate the bowels, which produces prostaglandin.
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3
Drink tea with parsley or cumin seeds.
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4
Have acupressure and homeopathic treatments administered carefully by an experienced practitioner.
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5
Massage nipples either with fingers or a warm towel. This stimulates the production of oxytocin, which causes uterine contractions.
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6
Walk, which also stimulates the release of oxytocin.
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7
Receive a dose of pitocin intravenously by a doctor. Pitocin is a synthetic form of oxytocin, which may induce labor.
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8
Have a doctor or midwife rupture the membranes (break the water bag) that surround the fetus.
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9
Have a doctor or midwife "strip" the membranes that surround the fetus. This is a common practice that may stimulate the beginning of labor.
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10
Have a doctor apply prostaglandin as a gel to the cervix (often as a precursor to administering pitocin).
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1
Tips & Warnings
While there are valid reasons why your health care provider may encourage the inducement of labor, you always have the right to refuse. Be on top of your pregnancy to make the best decision for your baby's safe delivery and your health. You may not want to interfere with Mother Nature.
There are risks associated with any method to induce labor. Consult with your health care provider before administering or receiving any of the above mentioned practices.
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Comments
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paulsbabygirl
Jun 21, 2010
I heard castor oil really works. Every site you look at about inducing labor says to use it as like the number 1 thing. I am actually trying to avoid having my baby because I will have to have a csection and I don't want to. This is my 3rd pregnancy and my baby is frank breech so I am hoping he turns and I want him to have time... I am 36 weeks -
oneloved
Jun 20, 2009
Breaking the "bag of waters" (membrane rupture) carries serious risks including cord prolapse and potential infection,and is not recommended unless the risks of continuing the pregnancy are higher than waiting for labor. Also, most hospitals require that a woman delivers her baby within 24 hours of membrane rupture, to reduce the risk of infection. If labor doesn't begin soon on it's own, you'll most likely end up on pitocin, which carries risks of its own: double the likelihood of fetal distress and C-section. Do your homework and weigh the risks and benefits before trying ANY induction method.
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bbiddle
Jan 25, 2009
I am 36 weeks and want her to be here extremely bad. I have a slipped disk and herniated disk in my back so I am in pain all the time. This is my 2nd child, with my 1st I was induced and really don't want to have to go throught that again. I have tried the walking and the sex. I am wondering if I should try the castro oil?? I see everyone's stories how they went into labor not long after taking it so I am curious if I should try it or not. Or if I am trying to early. I went to the dr. and she already weighs 6lbs 10 oz, and she's gained a pound every week that I have went, I got back in 3 days. She will probably weight 7lbs or more. I am worried. Should I do the castro oil now??
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aisha1077
Jan 04, 2009
iv tried everything too castor oil sex walking more sex and more walking pinapple raspbery tea nothing works i feel like i am a beached whale cant get up of the sofa without a wrench i wish this baby would hurry up and come out!!!
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HopeKMAtis
Mar 26, 2008
i am in my third pregnancy, 3cm and 90%effaced, with a bulging bag of water. i have had lots of contractions within the past 48 hours but none consistant or regular. ive had lots of sex (witch is great b/c i am not uncomfortable and i love it still) ate spicy food every night for the past week, i live in a four floor house with tons of stairs at the top of the biggest hill possible. i walk everywhere, lift my one yearold constantly (25 pounds) and tryed everything else (but caster oil and an enema. im in no rush i guess but ither come or dont. anyone have a suggestion that isnt listed above? im at a dead end and b/c i have breast milk i may just try pumping instead of dumping. help me in VT
