As pregnancy comes to an end, many women are desperate to get the baby out. Babies are considered full term from 37 weeks of pregnancy on. While it's best to let nature take its course, there are some things that you can do to naturally encourage labor to start.
Step 1
Relax in a warm bath, meditate or have a prenatal massage to let go of your anxieties and worries for a while. Labor can be elusive if you are under a great deal of stress.
Step 2
Have intercourse. An orgasm produces mild contractions, which may turn into labor contractions if you are ready to go into labor. Also, semen is a mild prostaglandin, which will help your cervix to efface and dilate. Keep your hips elevated after sex to allow the semen to work on your cervix for a while.
Step 3
Take a walk or a short hike. This can encourage your cervix to ripen and your uterus to contract. Make sure to drink enough water while you walk to remain hydrated.
Step 4
Try labor-encouraging foods. These include pineapple, eggplant, raspberry tea and anything spicy. There is some anecdotal evidence that these foods may help women go into labor.
Step 5
Try nipple stimulation. Stimulating your nipples with your fingers or a warm, wet washcloth can encourage your uterus to contract, and may put you into labor. Proceed with caution, and ask your doctor or midwife before you attempt this, as there are some medical conditions that could make nipple stimulation dangerous for you or the baby.
Things You'll Need
- Pineapple
- Eggplant
- Spicy foods
- Red raspberry tea
