First make sure that you have discussed anything you are going to do with your doctor to make sure that it is ok for you to do. You don't want to try things and have it be the wrong time.
I personally think sex is one of the best ways. Be very careful and gentle, and only have sex in positions that are comfortable for the you the woman. Often that can be lying on the side, which doesn't allow a lot of penetration and provides support for the stomach.
But here is a list of things to induce labor:
1. Eat spicy foods or pineapple. Some people swear that it was that extra-hot enchilada from their favorite Mexican restaurant that brought them face to face with their new baby. Unfortunately, the statistics are out on this one. You could try it, but if you have a full stomach when you are in labor, you might vomit and see that enchilada again--in less-than-appetizing circumstances.
2. Go for a walk or march up some stairs. This is thought to bring on labor because of the pressure of the baby's head pressing down on your cervix. At the very least, walking can help get your baby into a better position for labor.
Note: It is noted however this walking may not actually induce labor. However walking does help the baby settle down into the pelvis more and it's better than sitting around doing nothing which can get the baby into a bad position.
3. Have sex. A favorite for many pregnant women, sex can help by releasing a hormone called oxytocin, which causes the uterus to contract. Additionally, semen contains a substance known as prostaglandins, which will help soften the cervix.
4. Nipple stimulation. For those who find sex just too uncomfortable right now, nipple stimulation may be a better choice. It helps to bring on labor in much the same way sex does, by releasing oxytocin. However, this method may take a bit more effort than sex to start labor.
5. Stretching of the uterine opening membranes. This can be done by your doctor or midwife and has been found to increase the chances of labor starting within 48 hours.
6. Complementary therapies. Acupuncture, massage, teas, herbs and homeopathic remedies can be helpful when it comes to inducing labor. However, make sure you go to a licensed practitioner who has experience treating pregnant women.
7. One home remedy that is often recommended to pregnant women is castor oil taken either alone or with orange juice. While some women swear by this method, many experts and women who have tried it will strongly advise you against it. Castor oil may or may not bring on labor but it will definitely make you nauseous, cause you to vomit, have diarrhea and suffer severe cramps so just steer clear of this home remedy. You can take 1 to 4 ounces of castor oil mixed with 6 ounces of orange juice to cut its oiliness. You'll want to drink it quickly because of the unpleasant taste.
note: There is no relation between the GI tract and the cervix however castor oil and similar remedies stimulate the "gastro-colic reflex." It is a secondary result thing. Essentially by stimulating the colon, you get this gastro-colic reflex, which can cause the release of prostaglandins (Prostaglandins are hormones that help in inducing labor. If you're well beyond your due date and your doctor induces labor, he will probably use a prostaglandin gel to help "ripen" the cervix). For this reason that may be why some people think eating spicy foods -- which, you probably know, can also have a pretty pronounced effect on your bowels-- also helps in inducing labor.
8. Herbs: Blue and black cohosh
These herbs are used often to induce labor. They may be particularly effective if you are having weak or irregular contractions. Blue cohosh is believed to make uterine contractions stronger, while black cohosh may regulate the contractions. Together, they work to make contractions more effective. Unfortunately, no studies have determined that these natural treatments are safe, or whether all versions of the herb available for purchase are of equal potency. Be sure to discuss any herbal treatment with your practitioner before attempting it, to see if it is a good idea in your situation.
ps. Congrats on the baby and God bless.
2007-10-29 12:08:30
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answer #1
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answered by elexsor 2
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DON'T do the Castor Oil thing. I did that with my second pregnancy and got violently sick!!!! Ended up having false labor which really aggravated my husband.
Walking and sex are safe and sure bets if you are close to term. Another little tip - I washed our kitchen floor (10ftx10ft) on my hands and knees on a Wednesday night. Thursday night I ended up going into labor and had my first son that Friday morning. Whether it was the floor washing or not is up for debate, but I tried it again with my second one and had the same experience.
BUT PLEASE think sensibly, you should not try inducing labor until you are at least 32 weeks. This only makes sense for the health of your fetus.
I know the last few weeks are the most trying, but it's not all about you anymore. There's a little one depending on you to think of him/her first.
2007-10-29 12:16:30
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answer #2
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answered by Brenda F 2
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Nothing will induce a baby unless your baby and body are ready to go through labor. I am 38 weeks pregnant and I realize that its all coinsidence. Your not going to go into labor until it is meant to happen. Nothing has worked so far, so it is not time. I am very uncomfortable, the baby is putting a lot of pressure down below, I have to pee all the time, I feel ill most days, I am achy and tired, and I want this baby to be born but it will come when it does. There is nothing that I can do to help it get here. The baby and my body decide that, not me.
2007-10-29 12:12:59
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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This Site Might Help You.
RE:
what can i take to induce my labor!!!a safe way?
2015-08-10 10:18:08
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answer #4
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answered by ? 1
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I heard that there isnt anything that can speed up labor. Walking and all that stuff is supposed to be a myth. Im not too sure, I know my friend was over due 1 week, went to her doc and she told her to go home and have sex with her man. 1hour later she had her baby boy. Got to the hospital and in 30 minutes was able to push. Pushed for 30 minutes and out he came. good luck
2007-10-29 12:13:23
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answer #5
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answered by Anonymous
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If you really want to be safe, ask your doctor to do it. They have a drug called pitocin that will induce labor, and he can also give you a perscription to a chiropractor for an "induction massage". Other than that, a ride on a bumpy road worked for me!
2007-10-29 12:07:49
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answer #6
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answered by littleJaina 4
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Walking and sex are the two most common, safe ways to speed up your own labor. I'd avoid castor oil, as it only gives you the runs, which won't help the situation any.
2007-10-29 12:08:49
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answer #7
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answered by Cassie B. 4
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2017-03-02 07:50:16
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answer #8
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answered by ? 3
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Hi. I have heard that castor oil works. and I also know someone who had a glass of Guiness (stout) and went into labour.
Help this helps.
Best of luck
2007-10-29 12:05:16
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answer #9
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answered by Anonymous
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Lots of walking, sex, castor oil. I would mix the castor oil with something that tastes good and has a strong flavor other wise you will probably puke. Good luck and congrats.
2007-10-29 12:09:30
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answer #10
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answered by jd_will 2
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