Many women wish to speed the induction of labor in a natural way. Anecdotally, women have used a variety of foods and herbs to jump-start labor for hundreds of years, though little scientific evidence supports food use for labor induction. If you are nearing the end of your pregnancy, or are overdue, speak with your physician or midwife about trying foods for labor induction to ensure it is a healthy option for you and your baby.
Black Licorice
Licorice is a plant from which flavorings and medicine are derived. You may be familiar with black licorice candy, which is the type also associated with labor induction. Black licorice is thought to stimulate the production of prostaglandins, states Giving Birth Naturally. Prostaglandins occur naturally in the body and are responsible for contractions of smooth uterine muscle during labor, according to PubMed.gov. Licorice may also cause diarrhea, which may stimulate sympathetic uterine contractions and lead to labor, states Giving Birth Naturally. Consuming a large amount of licorice may stimulate uterine contractions. MedlinePlus warns that misuse of licorice during pregnancy may cause miscarriage or early delivery and advises against using licorice with the intent to start labor.
Pineapple and Red Raspberry
Some women claim eating pineapple helped induce labor, according to Giving Birth Naturally. Pineapple is a fruit that contains enzymes that may stimulate the cervix to soften. Red raspberry leaf tea is also thought to soften the cervix, states the American Academy of Family Physicians, though no scientific evidence exists to back up anecdotal claims. Cervical softening, or ripening, prepares the cervix for dilation needed to pass the baby from the uterus into the birth canal.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods have long been touted as natural labor inducers. Consuming spicy Mexican or Chinese foods may have some uterine effect; however, no scientific proof exists, according to What to Expect. Spices found in certain foods may induce diarrhea, which causes intestinal contractions. The body may produce sympathetic uterine contractions as a result; however, uterine contractions may stop when intestinal contractions stop, thus not producing an efficient labor pattern, states Laura Riley, M.D., in "Pregnancy: The Ultimate Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide."
