Mother’s Day 2024: Know 7 Expert Tips How Expectant Moms Can Induce Labor Naturally

As pregnancies approach their expected delivery dates, most women anxiously await the birth of their offspring, often resorting to natural methods to induce labor. In other words, many expectant mothers are eager to hold their newborns and as the pregnancy progresses, they may try natural methods to induce labor.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle on Mother’s Day, Dr Rashmi Dharaskar, senior consultant, obstetrics and gynecology at Surya Mother and Child Super Specialty Hospital in Pune, shared that although some methods are commonly used to induce labor naturally. Attempts are made, but it is important to remember that there is no guaranteed way to induce labor yourself. she suggested –

• Exercise: For example, walking may be helpful. Studies show that brisk walking for 30 minutes three times a week from the 38th week onwards can be beneficial in inducing labour.
• Nipple Stimulation: This may trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that influences contractions. However, it is important to consult your doctor to ensure the safety of mother and baby.
• Membrane Sweep: After 39 weeks of pregnancy, doctors may perform a procedure called membrane sweeping to potentially induce labor. This involves gently inserting gloved fingers into the cervix and separating the amniotic sac surrounding the baby from the lower part of your uterus. This separation can trigger the release of hormones that help soften and dilate the cervix, which can lead to labor.

Shruti Jain, founder of Yonitra Birth, reveals, “While no treatment can assure results, if your body and baby are ready, some have shown promise. Before attempting any induction technique, always check with your health care professional.

He recommended thinking about these organic ways –

1. physical activity: Due to gravity and hip movement, walking and running can cause the baby to descend into the pelvis. It’s possible that this pressure on the cervix will help her ripen and begin labor.
2. Special Activities: Lunges, deep squats and duck walks are some of the activities that can encourage the baby to descend and possibly induce labor. These exercises should be done only under the supervision of a qualified doctor.
3. Sexual Activity: Having sex may be beneficial because human sperm contains prostaglandin, a hormone that can help dilate and soften the cervix in preparation for childbirth.
4. Acupuncture and acupressure: These methods involve applying pressure to particular spots on the body, which can stimulate contractions in the uterus and initiate labor. When receiving acupuncture or acupressure treatments, always seek the advice of a licensed professional.
5. Nipple Stimulation: Oxytocin, a hormone that promotes contractions, can be released by gently caressing and stimulating the nipples (without causing discomfort). You should practice this strategy for some time every day.
6. Massage and Relaxation: Prenatal massage has been shown to increase oxytocin levels, which can help induce labor. Additionally, practicing relaxation methods like meditation or spending time with your significant other will help you feel comfortable and take things easier.

Shruti Jain said, “It is important to remember that oxytocin is released as labor begins and this often happens at night when the mother is calm and relaxed, but keep in mind that every pregnancy is different and the induction technique will be different for you each time. Cannot work for. Make sure you and your baby are safe using any chosen method and always make communication with your health care professional a high priority.