Home Remedies to Induce Labor that Work

In the past 20 years, the Centers for Disease Control estimate that inducing labor has become twice as popular than before. By 2006, almost a quarter of all pregnancies ended when labor was induced. Dr. Brian Mercer at the California Pacific Medical Center says that inducing labor greatly increases, perhaps even double, of having to endure a C-section after the induction of labor (as opposed to a natural birth). Although the risk of a C-section is higher, nontraditional methods of inducing labor are continuing to grow in popularity.

Sex and Nipple Stimulation

Even though it has yet to be accepted by the medical community, Catherine Beier, the creator of the website Giving Birth Naturally, says that sex can help induce labor in certain situations. The male semen contains nutrients known as prostanglandins which moistens the cervix, readying it to begin dilation. Furthermore, oxytocin, a molecule which stimulates uterine contractions, is known to be excreted in the body during nipple stimulation.

Walking

Walking is always a great low-stress work-out for pregnant women, but it is also a good way to help bring about the birthing process after contractions have begun but are not frequent enough to warrant going to the hospital. This will help open up the mother's cervix and will allow gravity to push the baby down. If its the right time for the baby to be born, labor can be induced through this method.

Herbs

Although neither have been proved to be definitively healthy or safe, midwives will commonly use herbs to bring about labor. The blue or black versions of the cohosh plant are thought to intensify contractions after they have begun. Ms Beier of Giving Birth Naturally also suggests that the mother prepare her body for labor by taking red raspberry tea leaf throughout her pregnancy. Finally, to prepare the cervical cavity, midwives recommend evening primrose oil to expectant mothers.

Castor Oil

Of the available methods of naturally inducing labor, it can almost be universally agreed upon that using castor oil is the least desirable of the treatments due to its taste and side effects. Lisa Rodriguez, a registered nurse, and Dr. Marjorie Greenfield report that this method has been used for quite some time. Castor oil leads to intense abdominal cramping which can also cause contractions of the uterus and finally ends in excretion through the rectum. If this doesn't induce labor, many experts will recommend that the pregnant lady repeat the treatment.

Special Consideration

These methods of inducing labor will only work if both the woman and the child are ready to begin delivery. Performing any type of medical procedure at-home is inherently risky, so it is always a good idea to consult a doctor before undergoing such an operation. Giving birth is a risky time for both mother and child, so it is important to have all preparations in line before beginning.