As noted by the NHS, the growing baby in the uterus (also known as the womb) should be in a state where it can be delivered at 37 weeks. Some health bodies even report that it is a week before this period. So, it doesn’t have to be the 39-plus weeks or 9 months as many commonly know.
But even at the 39th week or 9 months, it just feels like some babies are having a swell time inside and don’t want to grace the world outside. Are you eager for delivery time and for the birth of your baby to happen? Well, you can start the process by using some labor induction methods.
As with all things pregnancy, there are a lot of true and untrue reports out there. So, this International Health Alliance sexuality study is going to discuss labor induction ways that are verified & safe, unverified, unsafe, and that will help (even though unverified). All of these will be based on trusted medically reviewed studies. But you also need to take note that professional advice from your doctor or midwife supersedes the details divulged here.
Castor Oil – Unverified and Unsafe
Uterine contractions can be triggered by using castor oil. But it is not a certainty that the contractions will get you into labor. But even if it worked, the use of Castor oil is far from being a safe way to induce labor. There are side effects and they include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The combined effects of all these can cause dehydration, which is the last thing a woman needs during pregnancy.
Spicy Foods – Unverified and Not Recommended
Many resources that supposedly answer the question of how pregnant women can naturally induce labor are fond of mentioning the use of spicy foods. For starters, the basis for this supposed method is down to myth for the most part. As of the time of this study, there is limited medical research proving how inducing labor is possible using spicy foods.
Peradventure spicy foods can truly work toward inducing labor in a natural way, this labor induction method is not without its cons. Such foods can trigger heartburn, which most pregnant women are already susceptible to. By the way, you can take Tums for heartburn relief while pregnant.
Acupuncture – Debatable but Helpful
Acupuncture and acupressure are alternative therapy methods that some (including professionals) believe can help induce labor. This is quite debatable. However, one thing is certain and it is that acupuncture and acupressure can help relieve physical tension brought about by pregnancy.
At the very least, these alternative therapy methods will help during delivery. In the same vein, massage will also help during delivery. So, you can get started with massage sessions even during pregnancy. It is just important that the acupuncture or acupressure session is overseen by professionals.
Nipple Stimulation – Probably Works but Not Recommended
One of the tips suggesting that a labor induction method might work is its ability to influence the brain to release oxytocin. Oxytocin is the hormone that the brain releases to cause contractions leading to labor.
The stimulations of the breast can cause the brain to release oxytocin. But even at that, there are still inconclusive medical reports about this. Other than discussing its effectiveness, there is also a question mark on its safety because of its effects on the nipples. So, it is not a method that this study recommends in the best interest of the body of expectant moms.
Sex – Verified
Sex can influence the brain to release oxytocin. As a result, it can induce labor. Sex is a safe way to go about this. This is as long as the cervix has not reached that stage when the mucus plug is released. You also need to be mindful of the sex styles that you engage in.
Exercise – Unverified but Helpful
Exercise is reported as one of the ways to induce labor by some sources. The truth is that this is not medically verified. But regardless, exercise for pregnant women is advised as it will help during delivery (at least). However, high-intensity exercises are not recommended. Rather, light exercises like walking are ideal.
We understand if you want other sexuality-related content. We have more than enough for you. For example, you can read this article that discusses why you may get your period twice in one month on birth control.
