It is not uncommon for many women to remain pregnant after their due date, especially for first time moms. Most obstetricians and midwives will give mom until 42 weeks to go into labor naturally, though you may be monitored more after you have reached 40 weeks gestation. If you are uncomfortable and at the end of your pregnancy, there are ways to encourage labor to start at home. These methods should only be attempted to induce labor if you have reached full term (37 weeks gestation and beyond). Talk to your doctor or midwife before making any attempts to get labor going.
Sex
Having sex is a great way to encourage labor to start because of the hormones released during the act. When a woman has an orgasm, her body releases oxytocin, which is the hormone that causes uterine contractions. As a man ejaculates, he releases semen, which contains prostaglandins. Prostaglandins ripen or soften the cervix, which happens prior to cervical dilation. Of course, do not engage in sexual activity if it is uncomfortable or you have been told by your health care provider to avoid it. Also, do not engage in sexual activity if your bag of waters has broken.
Stimulate Your Breasts
Stimulating your breasts, or nipple stimulation, can be done manually by you or your partner or by using an electric breast pump. When the nipples are stimulated, oxytocin is released, causing the uterus to contract and the cervix to change. There are various ways to stimulate your nipples, including using an electric pump on one breast for 15 minutes, resting for 15 minutes, then repeat on the other breast, or by massaging the breasts with a warm cloth for an hour, three times a day.
Complementary Medicines
Several complementary medicines have successfully induced labor such as acupuncture, acupressure, and homeopathy. You may need several sessions to see results.
Herbal Preparations
Evening primrose oil softens the cervix, allowing it to dilate. Per C. Sinclair, in "A Midwife's Handbook," take three capsules of evening primrose oil in the evening daily for up to one week. It can also be inserted into your vagina and applied directly onto the cervix (if you can reach it.) Evening primrose oil is full of prostaglandins, which help to soften your cervix.
Castor Oil
According to Helen Varney, certified nurse midwife (CNM), ingesting 60 mg of castor oil mixed in apple or orange juice can induce labor. It is best to take the castor oil after you have had a good night's sleep. Castor oil stimulates the bowels, which in turn, stimulates the uterus to contract. Because the bowels are stimulated, there are uncomfortable side effects such as diarrhea and cramping.
References
- Varney's Midwifery; Helen Varney, Jan M. Kriebs, Carolyn L. Gegor; 2004
- A Midwife's Handbook; Constance Sinclair; 2004
