You have reached 40 weeks and are eagerly waiting for the big day to arrive but you are still not in labor. Many women use aerobic exercise to induce labor instead of being induced at the hospital. With your doctor's consent you can engage in various exercises to jump-start labor.
Walking
Walking is a low-impact form of aerobic exercise that can be done in your home or in the hospital to induce labor. According to Dr. Spock, your hips swing side to side while walking, which can help move the baby into the proper birthing position. The force of gravity while standing and walking helps to push the baby downward. Pregnancy Info says the pressure from the baby's head on your cervix can help to induce labor. Keep a partner with you while walking for added safety of you and your baby.
Sex
Sexual intercourse is a form of aerobic exercise that helps to induce labor. According to Pregnancy Info, the female orgasm along with the release of oxytocin causes contractions. When the man experiences an orgasm semen is expelled into the cervix. Childbirth Solutions Inc., states that the semen contains prostaglandin, which helps to break down the cervix collagen. The prostaglandin in semen works as a catalyst to help dilate the cervix.
Because this method requires the man to avoid using a barrier device, such as a condom, it is important to know both partners' sexual health status. Engaging in unprotected sex with a partner who has a sexual infection or disease can cause health problems for the mother and child.
Stair Exercises
Stair climbing exercises can also help to trigger labor. Hold onto a partner's hand during stair exercises for additional safety and support. Lifting your legs during stair exercises naturally opens the pelvis in preparation for labor. According to Modern Mom, stair walking can help you begin to dilate. An alternative to walking up and down stairs is to perform step-ups. Use one foot at a time to step onto a stair and back down.
Squatting
Squats help to lower your baby into your pelvis and open your pelvis. According to Maternity Acupressure, you should only perform squats once your baby is head down and facing your back. Squatting before the baby is in the correct birthing position can cause the baby to descend in the breech position. Stand upright with your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart with your hands on your hips. Have a partner stand behind you as a spotter during the exercise. Slowly bend your knees, keep your weight resting on your heels and lower your body toward the ground. Stop when your legs are parallel with the floor and stand back up.
