Ways to Jump Start Labor

Labor and delivery are the culmination of nine months of pregnancy. Many women are relieved to reach this milestone, not only to meet their bundle of joy, but also to experience relief from ailments common to the end of pregnancy -- back aches, swollen ankles and Braxton-Hicks contractions.


Several safe and natural methods are available to try jump-starting labor at home. Your doctor may also choose to medically induce labor at the hospital, particularly if you are overdue or have complications.

  1. Walk or Light Exercise

    • Take a walk or engage in some light aerobic exercise to start the laboring process. Walking can also ease contractions and help move the baby into the birthing position through gravity.

    Sexual Intercourse

    • Sexual intercourse can jump start labor, because semen contains prostaglandins, which are hormones released during labor to ripen your cervix and begin contractions. This hormone is naturally produced by a pregnant woman during labor and can start contractions. Try lying on your side or have your spouse stand behind you for more comfort during intercourse.

    Foods, Herbs and Spices

    • Women trying to start labor have used castor oil and spicy food for many years. There are no guarantees, but you can try eating a spicy bean burrito to start your contractions.

      Castor oil should be taken only at your physician's discretion. Take 1 to 4oz. of castor oil with a glass of orange juice to minimize the unpleasant taste. Castor oil should cause cramping in your stomach and intestines, and hopefully, your uterus.

      Blue and black cohosh are two herbs believe to induce labor when taken together. Check with your doctor before using any herbal remedies, since the potency may vary depending on where you purchase the herb.

    Stripping of Membranes

    • A physician, nurse or midwife does stripping of the membranes in your doctor's office. During a routine examine, your healthcare practitioner will separate the amniotic sac from the cervix using a gloved finger. Once this is done, your body should begin to release prostaglandins. If successful, you will begin to experience contractions within 8 hours and should deliver your baby within 24 hours.

    Medications

    • Prostaglandins can be given by a doctor in the hospital. You will either take a pill or suppository, which will begin the laboring process. Another medical option is a balloon catheter, which is inserted into the cervix and filled with water, causing the cervix to dilate and contractions to begin.

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