Overdue? Facts and myths about inducing labor yourself
Many pregnant women look forward to the moment labor begins towards the end of their pregnancy and wonder if they can induce labor themselves. But what if your due date has passed and nothing is happening yet? Then you often receive all kinds of tips from friends, family, or the internet about ways to help start labor.
But what really works — and what is mostly a persistent myth?
In this article, we list the best-known methods for inducing labor , along with what science says about them.
Sex to induce labor
One of the best-known pieces of advice is: have sex if you are overdue .
There are two reasons for this:
- Sperm contains prostaglandins , substances that can soften the cervix.
- An orgasm can cause mild uterine contractions .
What does research say?
Scientific studies show no clear evidence that sex actually induces labor. Some studies see a small effect, others none at all.
Conclusion
Sex is safe during a normal pregnancy as long as the membranes have not ruptured , but it is no guarantee that labor will start .
Nipple stimulation
Nipple stimulation is sometimes mentioned as a natural way to induce contractions.
Why would this work?
It stimulates the production of oxytocin , the hormone that is also responsible for contractions during childbirth.
What does research say?
There is reasonable scientific evidence that nipple stimulation can induce contractions in women with a ripe cervix.
NB
It can cause strong contractions , which is why it is often advised to do this only in consultation with a midwife .
Conclusion
This is one of the few natural methods with some scientific evidence .
Lots of walking or climbing stairs
Many pregnant women take extra walks in the hope that the baby will “drop down”.
What does research say?
There is no evidence that walking induces labor .
However, exercise can help to:
- to stay fit q
- to position the baby favorably in the pelvis
- to improve fitness for childbirth
Conclusion
Good for your body , but probably not a direct trigger for labor .
Spicy food
Many people think that spicy food can induce labor by stimulating the intestines.
What does research say?
There is no scientific evidence that spicy food triggers contractions.
However, it can lead to:
- stomach acid
- abdominal complaints
- a restless night
Conclusion
Fable.
eating pineapple
Pineapple is often mentioned because the enzyme bromelain is said to help soften the cervix.
What does research say?
The enzyme is found mainly in the stem of the pineapple , not in the flesh.
Additionally, you would have to eat an extreme amount of pineapple before it could have any effect.
Conclusion
Probably a myth.
Castor oil (wonder oil)
Castor oil has long been used as a means to induce labor.
What does research say?
Some studies show that it can induce contractions .
But it often also causes:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- abdominal pain
Conclusion
It can have an effect, but midwives usually advise against it without medical supervision .
What actually helps if you are overdue?
Most labor starts spontaneously between 40 and 42 weeks . If labor does not start spontaneously, the midwife can sometimes help with:
- Stripping the membranes
- Medical introduction in the hospital
Which choice is best depends on your pregnancy and health.
Important to remember
Many tips for inducing labor are based on experience or tradition , but not always on science.
The methods with some evidence are:
- nipple stimulation
- stripping of the membranes (by a healthcare provider)
- medical introduction
Are you unsure what is sensible in your situation? Always discuss it with your midwife or gynecologist .