23 Ways to trigger labor that work

Intercourse is not recommended for 6 weeks after the baby arrives, so better have it while you can and also induce labor in the process. Semen contains prostaglandins which help soften the cervix. And a good orgasm helps you relax and releases Oxytocin, the love hormone, which might help you get into labor. But just enjoy intercourse rather than worry about going into labor.

Acupuncture and acupressure is another natural method for inducing labor. With acupuncture, a practitioner places fine needles at various points along the body to balance your energy flow. Acupressure is the same concept, but instead fingers are used to apply pressure to pressure points. These are also pressed during labor induction massages. A couple ofpressure pointsare thought to cause contractions. Oneis located in the webbing between your thumb and forefinger. The other is located just above your ankle. Applying pressure to either of these two pressure points may help bring on contractions.

Nipple stimulation is one of the most reliable ways of inducing labor. It works by releasing Oxytocin, which helps your uterus contract.

The prostagladin releasing method is typically done in the doctor's office, wherein, the doctor uses a gloved finger to separate the amniotic sac from the uterine wall. There are no medicines involved in this method.

Prostaglandins ripen and soften the cervix. They also increase the flexibility of the pelvic ligaments. You can take such supplements orally, but the side-effects have not been studied clinically.

Anxiety can delay the onset of labor. Being relaxed, feeling safe and supported all help open the cervix.

The Maternity Salad at Caioti Pizza Cafe in Los Angeles is loaded with romaine, watercress, walnuts, and gorgonzola cheese. These along with their special balsamic vinaigrette have been reported to induce labor.

Spicy foods can induce labor, in addition to several uncomfortable trips to the bathroom.

Enzymes found in pineapple are said to help ripen the cervix, which can bring on labor. It may also give you wicked heartburn, though!

Jiggle the baby out by racing through potholes.

Eggplant parmigiana, and other eggplant recipes have been reported to induce labor.

A gentler at-home version of the bumpy car ride. Jiggle the baby out.

Dance along your favorite tunes to get the baby working its way out.

Though EPO itself may not cause labor, it can prime and soften your cervix. You may take the oil orally or insert it vaginally for the best results. While healthcare providers have long suggested taking EPO to ease birth, there is little proof that it naturally induces labor.

One of the most effective methods for naturally inducing labor is also the easiest -- walking. It utilizes gravity to press the baby's head downward against the cervix, helping to soften and dilate the cervix, and the swaying motion helps position the baby for birth. Walking is also an excellent test to tell if early contractions represent true labor -- if the contractions persist when walking, it's the real thing.

The practice of using castor oil to induce labor is somewhat controversial, as its use has been associated with the potential for adverse effects in the baby, namely meconium staining at birth. Its use also carries some transient unpleasant side effects for the mother. Caution should be exercised when considering this method. It should only be used with the consent of your care provider after 41 weeks of pregnancy.

Soften the cervix and get the labor going with raspberry leaf tea.

Just like walking, dancing, and bouncing on the birthing ball, going up the stairs can induce labor too. Just dont get too tired and be extremely carefully.

Getting a labor induction massage is a great way to get contractions going. Such massages have helped about 60-70% of pregnant women go into labor. This massage does not always work immediately and may require two or three appointments to help stimulate labor. It allows you to relax your muscles around baby and it sends signals to your body to start the labor process.

You should consult your doctor or midwife before considering herbs to induce labor. Herbs are not regulated by the FDA and can be dangerous if not taken at the proper dosage. This is why it is important to work with your midwife or an herbalist for instructions on when and how to use them. Some herbs that have been used to induce labor include black cohosh, blue cohosh, false unicorn root, and motherwort.

A method to relax, soaking in a warm bath may help to get labor going. It allows you to relax your muscles and release tension in your body. It reduces anxiety, and anxiety has been known to prevent labor.

Homeopathy is a form of holistic medicine that has been used since the 1700s, beginning in Europe. It is safe, gentle, and is one of the most common forms of alternative medicine practiced today worldwide. It can be used during delivery, while many herbs and medications are contraindicated. It is also safe in the event of surgery, as in a cesarean section. Take each homeopathic medicine daily. Take 3 pellets under the tongue, separated by at least 30 minutes apart. Arnica 12C or 30C Caulophyllum 12C or 30C Cimicifuga 12C or 30C Gelsemium 12C or 30C Pulsatilla 12C or 30C

As long as you don't fall off, use gravity to bring in the baby by going to a local park or playground, and swinging around.