Health care providers will caution women against using aromatherapy during pregnancy. Some herbs may be too strong for some women, causing allergic reactions, headaches, nausea, etc. However, there are some types of aromatherapy that are safe to use at home to induce labor. Women who choose to use aromatherapy to induce labor should only use it if they have reached or passed their due date to minimize any adverse effects. The use of aromatherapy to induce labor should always be used with caution.

Lavender

Lavender is naturally calming and relaxing and can often be found used in bath washes and lotions. It is said to help relieve stress and cause the body to lose tension. In order for labor to begin, the mother must be stress-free and relaxed. Contractions will not begin if the body is too tense so the use of Lavender is suggested to ease that tension and welcome the on-set of labor.

Evening Primrose Oil

This oil is believed to stimulate the uterus and cause contractions. In capsule form, Primrose can be taken orally or can be inserted vaginally to help soften and thin the cervix for dilation.

Clary sage

Clary sage is more helpful as an aromatherapy treatment once contractions have begun. Because it is said to be antispasmodic, clary can help ease the pain of contractions during labor. In large doses, however, clary sage can be highly toxic and is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy.

Basilica and Oregano

Basilica, commonly known as basil, is an herb said to stimulate the uterus and help cause contractions due to its potency.

Like basilica, oregano is said to stimulate the uterus to induce labor. It is also known to be quite potent and should be used with caution.

Both herbs should only be used if the mother has reached her due date and wants to induce labor by starting contractions.

Expectant mothers should always consult their physician before using any type of aromatherapy during pregnancy. Women who choose to use aromatherapy as a method of labor induction must wait until they have reached at least 38 weeks pregnant, though physicians would most likely recommend waiting until they have reached or passed their due date.

Remember to consult your doctor or midwife before attempting this.

If you have reached or passed your due date and are looking to induce labor naturally, evening primrose oil may be your solution.

Evening primrose oil is most commonly found in a soft gel capsule form. It can be taken orally is doses of two 500mg per day. The capsule can be opened and the oil inside can be used to massage the perineum. It can also be inserted vaginally so that it sits on the cervix causing it to thin and soften. This is necessary for dilation to begin.

Primrose oil is most commonly used by midwives who prefer natural methods of labor induction to those administered in a clinical setting. To soften and thin the cervix, physicians most often use a technique called “stripping the membranes”. Using his fingers, he will physically separate the bag of water from the cervix so the cervix will stretch and thin.

There has been ongoing debate as to the effectiveness of using evening primrose oil to induce labor. As with most other natural methods of labor induction, primrose oil will not produce results right away. If taken before bed, you will not awaken in the middle of the night with contractions. It could take several attempts before experiencing effective results. A study conducted in 1999 by the American College of Nurse Midwives set out to discover the effectiveness of evening primrose oil. This study, unfortunately, has yet to prove conclusive as the group of women who took the capsules took them orally. In order for the oil to be most effective it should be taken vaginally so the cervix has an optimal chance of ripening.

If you have reached or passed your due date and would like to try a natural method of labor induction, consult with your health care provider or midwife about evening primrose oil.

Sexual Intercourse

Semen contains naturally occurring hormones called prostaglandins. When released during intercourse, the prostaglandins can aid in the softening of the cervix which prepares it to dilate. Prostaglandins can also trigger uterine contractions. Another advantage of using intercourse to induce labor is the oxytocin that is produce during female orgasm. Oxytocin is a hormone that is proven to begin contractions in the uterus when the body is ready for labor.

Nipple Stimulation

This method, along with sexual intercourse, may be one that makes the expectant mother uncomfortable. Nipple stimulation is the act of taking the nipple between two fingers and rubbing or massaging. This practice causes the release of oxytocin, which we have established can trigger contractions. Many women who use this practice will caution that the resulting contractions from nipple stimulation are strong and can be quite painful. In order to experience true results, the nipples must be massaged for adequate time periods. The usual suggestion for stimulation is around 15 minutes per nipple several times a day. Physicians will warn if you decide to use this method at home, not to begin until you have reached or surpassed your due date due to the possibility of such strong contractions.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is another source of prostaglandins. Regularly sold as a soft gel capsule, it can be taken orally as soon as 34 weeks, however at-home methods of labor induction are strongly advised against before 37 weeks. The usual dosage is two 500mg capsules per day. For best results, primrose oil capsules can be inserted vaginally so they rest on the cervix causing it to thin and soften for dilation.

Castor Oil

Castor oil has long been thrown around as a method to induce labor. Some women swear by it, while others tell you to steer clear of it. Swallowing a few tablespoons of oil, even though this one is tasteless and odorless, is never pleasant. And of course, let’s not forget to mention how and why this stuff works.

The castor oil acts as a laxative, stimulating the bowels and causing diarrhea. The cramping that occurs with the diarrhea helps the uterus to contract, which is supposed to kick start your labor.

The controversy surrounding castor oil is due to the speculation that it can cause the baby to release meconium in the womb. Meconium is the baby’s first bowel movement and if released while still in the womb the baby can inhale it, possibly causing respiratory problems and even pneumonia. Another danger occurs if the mother has diarrhea severe enough to cause dehydration and exhaustion. Adequate fluids, most importantly water, are needed to provide sufficient nutrients to the baby. If the mother becomes dehydrated she will put the baby’s health in danger. Poor hydration can also lead to an inadequate milk supply for a breastfeeding mom.

Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies

It is said that the body will not respond to natural methods of labor induction unless it is ready for labor. You need to be free of stress and ready to handle the physical and emotional challenges labor will bring. To get your body ready for labor, one good at-home method to use is meditation. Sitting alone in a quiet room with soothing music and some aromatherapy will help the body de-stress and be ready for the on-set of labor. Acupuncture is another good way to relieve stress and even start contractions using two particular trigger points on your body. One point is located about 2-3 inches above the inner ankle on your calf. The other can be found the webbing between your thumb and forefinger.

Blue and black cohosh are said to help labor by triggering contractions. There is no significant research to prove that these plant roots actually start contractions, but some women feel that they do help stimulate the uterus.

Stripping of the Membranes

During a visit to your physician, she may perform a procedure call a stipping or sweeping of the membranes. She will insert a finger or two in the vaginal opening and “sweep” the cervix, pushing it from one side to the other. This pulls the membranes of the bag of water away from the cervix, causing the cervix to be able to stretch out and begin to thin. This process can also cause the release of prostaglandins, which will begin contractions. It is a quite painful and uncomfortable procedure and does not always produce results when performed.

Expectant moms have often heard that using castor oil will help induce labor but few understand the connection between the two. Using castor oil to induce labor causes intestinal cramping, bowel stimulation and leads to diarrhea. This in turn will stimulate the uterus to produce prostaglandins, a natural hormone also commonly found in a man’s semen. The prostaglandins will cause the uterus to contract, preparing your body for labor. This method is most effective only if the body is ready for labor. Trying this process anytime before 37 weeks of pregnancy may not produce results and may lead to pregnancy complications. Always consult your physician before beginning any methods of at-home labor induction.

Risks

For the baby A theory exists that using castor oil to induce labor may cause your baby to pass meconium in the womb. Meconium is your baby’s first stool, made up of materials ingested in the womb, and is normally passed after birth. If it is released in the amniotic fluid, the baby may inhale the fluid and be subject to respiratory distress and pneumonia.  However, this is still just theory, as medical research has yet to prove if using castor oil will have this type of outcome.

For the mother Due to the persistent diarrhea that accompanies a dose of castor oil, the mother is at risk   of dehydration and exhaustion. She may experience a lack of normal physical energy which will be needed if the oil is successful in beginning her labor. Castor oil can also cause contractions to be irregular and quite painful, which can put stress on the mother’s body.

Dosage

The normal recommended dosage of castor oil is no more than 2 tablespoons per dose. It may be taken more than once per day however, it may not be needed more than once and many women won’t be willing to take it twice or more. It is suggested that you not take castor oil in the evening or just before bed, as the resulting diarrhea will keep you from getting a full nights sleep. Castor oil is tasteless and odorless, however because it is like any other oil, its consistency may make you think twice about taking it on its own. It is suggested that you mix it well with food or beverages to make it easier on the palate. If you take it in the morning, mix it well with eggs or juice or blend it into a smoothie with some fresh fruit and juice.

Castor Oil Alternative

If you find you are not up to trying a dose of castor oil or have previously tried it with no success, you may want to try evening primrose oil. Primrose is another great source of prostaglandins and will help naturally soften the cervix so it can dilate. Evening primrose is a great alternative because it is available in a soft gel capsule that can be taken orally or inserted vaginally. If used vaginally there is a greater chance of the cervix thinning and opening, as the primrose will be resting on top of it.

The recommended dose of evening primrose oil is two 500mg capsules per day. Side-effects of primrose are very mild, including stomach upset and headaches. As with castor oil, do not take more than the recommended dose for the safety of you and your baby.

Remember to consult your doctor or midwife before trying this.

Are you tired of being pregnant? Has it been too long since you have been able to tie your own shoes, sleep on your tummy and walk without the pregnant girl “waddle”? I too have been there and I know it’s not pleasant. If you are like me, then you have probably searched high and low looking for ways to ease the discomfort by inducing labor at home. Don’t be fooled into thinking that the methods of induction you read about are fool-proof or work 100% of the time because they DON’T! However, there are some things you can do at home to aid in the onset of labor by starting contractions.

Doctors will always tell you that your baby will come when she is ready. But what about her coming when you are ready? Most moms get lucky and don’t make it all the way to their due date. The highest percentage of deliveries occurs between weeks 37 and 40. Your baby is considered full term after 37 weeks so delivering anytime after this week will give your baby the best chances for a healthy delivery. Sounds great, right? Well, what if weeks 40 comes and goes and still no baby?

So, if you’re your due date is long gone and you can’t wait anymore to see that little bundle of joy that’s been doing somersaults in your belly for 9 months, there are a few things you can try to get the ball rolling.

Inducing Labor at Home You should consult with your physician before attempting any of these at-home methods.

What you might NOT want to try

• Castor Oil! I’m sure you have heard the old tale that castor oil will help if you are inducing labor at home by starting contractions. While this may be true, the oil does this by stimulating your bowels (which in turn stimulates your uterus to contract) meaning you will be spending quite a bit of time in the bathroom! Persistent diarrhea can cause you to become dehydrated so this may not be the best way to go.
• Spicy Food! If you can’t normally handle spicy food, I wouldn’t recommend it during pregnancy. The spices may cause you to have heartburn or even worse, diarrhea.
• Vigorous exercise! Doctors will warn you not to take on too much physical activity, especially during your last few weeks. If you are thinking about exercising harder to try to get the baby to “drop” or come out faster, think again. You are only putting yourself and your baby at risk.

What you might WANT to try

• Walking! We all know how to do it and should be doing it everyday anyway. This is the easiest way to bring on your labor. The gentle rocking of the pelvis can allow the baby to drop, plus the exercise can help bring on contractions.

• Spicy food! If you normally can eat spicy food, then give it a shot to induce your labor. The spices in what you eat can help trigger contractions. But again, watch out for that heartburn!
• Sex! That’s right, I said SEX! Most women steer clear of sexual intercourse during pregnancy, especially toward the last month or so because it can be very uncomfortable. However, when released during orgasm, a natural female hormone called oxytocin can cause the uterus to contract. Plus, another special hormone found in semen can cause the cervix to thin slightly and cause dilation.
• Nipple stimulation! As odd as it may sound, rubbing or massaging the nipple between your fingers (or your partners!) also causes the release of oxytocin which can start contractions. If you are not comfortable with this method, try placing a hot towel over your breasts for a few minutes at a time or use the towel to massage the nipple instead of your fingers.
• Massage! Pre-natal massage is extremely relaxing and helps de-stress the body which makes it easier for labor to begin and progress.  Rubbing the belly can help stimulate the uterus and cause contractions. Just be careful not to rub or push down too hard.

If you have reached or passed your due date and can’t wait anymore to finally have and hold your baby, then find an at-home method you are comfortable with and give it a shot. Just remember to use caution with all of these methods and don’t get disappointed if they don’t work right away or at all. Just try to be patient and focus on the moment you finally get to see that perfect little face…and your feet!

Your physician cannot tell you exactly when or how your labor will begin, which is the hard part for most expectant moms. The uncertainty of labor can make most moms nervous enough to question how to start labor at home. While most home methods of inducing labor are safe, you must first decide if it is the right time to begin labor. If you have reached or passed 37 weeks in your pregnancy induction methods may be tried but are still not recommended until you have gone past your due date.

If you experience any of these health problems in your pregnancy that can pose a threat to you or your baby, your physician may recommend artificially starting labor before your due date.

• Toxemia
  Pregnancy induced hypertension, known also as toxemia or pre-eclampsia is a very dangerous and threatening condition if not monitored carefully by your doctor. Symptoms include high blood pressure, swelling of the face, hands, and feet and high protein levels in your urine. Doctors are still unsure of what exactly causes toxemia but they do know that it can have deadly consequences if not treated properly.
• Gestational Diabetes
  This condition can have serious consequences for the mother. Women with gestational diabetes are at risk for having babies that can be too large to deliver safely. Some health care providers may recommend inducing labor before your due date to prevent the baby from becoming too large or to prevent the possibility of a caesarean section.

Your due date is an estimated 40 weeks from the date of conception. If your pregnancy goes passed 42 weeks, it is possible that your baby is still healthy and just needs more time in the womb. However, going passed 42 weeks can also have negative consequences on the health of your baby. Most physicians will induce labor to not allow a pregnancy to reach or go beyond 42 weeks.

• Overdue Baby
  If your pregnancy reaches or surpasses 42 weeks the placenta may not be able to continue to sufficiently supply your baby with enough oxygen and nutrients. Again, most physicians will induce labor before this point to ensure the baby does not suffer from inadequate nutrition.
• Large Baby
  If your health care provider feels that your baby may become too large for you to deliver, he may want to induce labor early. As with gestational diabetes, when the baby becomes too large to deliver safely, a c-section may be ordered to deliver the baby. Ultrasound technology can give a very good estimate of the size of your baby before you deliver, but they are not exact measurements. Your baby could weigh up to a whole pound more at birth than the ultrasound determined. This is especially true if the ultrasound is done before the last 4 weeks of pregnancy, when your baby is significantly building up his fat supply.

How to Start Labor

If you and your physician have determined that it is safe to start labor, there are several methods to choose from to begin the process.

• Natural herbal/homeopathic techniques If you have ever wondered how to start labor at home there are some natural methods you can use to stimulate contractions and get your body ready for labor. Meditation in a dark and quiet room helps the body eliminate stress and get ready for the birthing experience. Taking a dose of castor oil can stimulate the uterus to contract. Black and blue cohosh can also bring on contractions.
• Natural, physical methods
  Sexual intercourse has been known to cause contractions to begin. Certain hormones in a man’s sperm and female orgasm can cause uterine contractions and the cervix to thin and dilate. Nipple stimulation causes the release of oxytocin, a hormone which is known to trigger contractions. Doctors also recommend walking to put more pressure on the pelvis and get the body ready for birth.
• Artificial Methods
  The body will only begin the labor process when the cervix is ready, meaning when the cervix is thin and soft. If you need to be induced, your health care provider may administer a treatment that will cause the cervix to become ready for labor. One example, cervidil, is a cream that is applied directly on the cervix. Many women are given a drug called Pitocin, which is an artificial form of the natural female hormone oxytocin. Pitocin is administered through an IV and aides in the onset of contractions.

There are always risks associated with labor induction, whether it is performed at home or by a physician. For the safety of you and your baby, be sure the home methods you choose are approved by your health care provider.

If you want your baby out the natural way, that can also be tried. But get your plans approved from your midwife or your health-care provider before trying the natural methods. These methods although considered safe, may not be suitable for in all women. Ensure safety and reduce risks!

So, what are the natural ways? There are many. Some are simple and some are interesting. Let’s know what they are.

Company march

You would have laughed watching those funny war movies when the general shouts that phrase. Now that can be beneficial for you. It has been noted that walking induces labor due to the action of gravity. The baby tends to move more easily towards the cervix as you walk for some time.

Foods

Eating spicy foods or fruits such as pineapple have also been noted to induce labor naturally. But don’t eat too spicy foods or you may run around for water while your water is breaking!

Sex

The interesting method! Most women enjoy sex during pregnancy. This can help induce labor also. The semen released from your partner contains prostaglandins that can soften the cervix and initiate labor. On the other hand, the orgasm you experience releases oxytocin which induces uterine contractions.

Stimulate the nipples

Another interesting method! This also has been noted to release oxytocin, the hormone necessary for uterine contractions. This may take more time than sex and overstimulation may result in severe contractions.

Get it stretched

You require your healthcare provider or your midwives help for this procedure during which the membranes of the uterus are stretched a bit, manually.

Alternatives

Then, there are these alternative therapies. Ranging from teas to massages, a number of alternative therapies are available to help in the natural induction of labor. Herbs and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, acupressure, homeotherapy have all been associated with varying reports of efficacy and safety.

Play safe

Consult your healthcare provider or your midwife before trying any of these labor induction procedures. Getting things done at the right time, in the right place with the right method can help you and your baby to have a safe and happy delivery.

Labor will not begin or progress if you are stressed so don’t try too hard to bring on contractions. Expectant moms should instead treat themselves to a warm bath with aromatherapy, a relaxing pre-natal or belly massage or even acupuncture.  Meditation can also help relax the body and mind while visualization techniques help you get in touch with your baby, as you envision her being born.

These techniques will help get your body and mind ready to try other methods of inducing labor at home. Doctors will warn however, to use caution with any home method of inducing labor and to only begin these techniques when you have reached at least 37 weeks in your pregnancy.

Physical Stimulation

Sexual intercourse is the most commonly known method of inducing labor at home. A male’s semen contains a hormone called prostaglandins, which is known to aid in the onset of labor.  The longer the semen stays on or around the cervix the better it will thin the cervix and help cause it to dilate. When the expectant mom has an orgasm, this can also cause the cervix to dilate and can stimulate the uterus to contract.

Nipple stimulation releases the hormone oxytocin which will prompt contractions. Rubbing the nipple between your fingers or placing a hot towel on your breasts can trigger the release of oxytocin.  Doctors will recommend that you only use nipple stimulation sparingly in a day so as not to bring on such strong contractions before you can reach the hospital.

Walking has also been recommended by physicians as a way of naturally and safely inducing labor. Walking or gentle bike riding will put pressure on the cervix and help the baby “drop.”

Diet Changes, Herbs, and Oils

Spicy food has been known to help some women naturally induce labor. Eating spicy food will stimulate the bowels which will in turn stimulate the uterus and help it to contract. Some tropical fruits such as kiwi and pineapple contain enzymes that can trigger the uterus to mildly contract.

Evening Primrose Oil and Castor Oil can also be used to naturally induce labor. Mixing a dose of Castor Oil with another liquid, such as juice, makes it easier to drink and digest. Like spicy food, the oil will help stimulate the bowels and uterus.

An herbal specialist can provide you with special plant roots called cohash. Blue and black cohash have been said to aid in inducing labor at home though there are few studies or fact to prove their effectiveness.

Once again, you should always consult with your physician before experimenting with any of these home
methods of inducing labor. They can tell you what is best and safest for you and your baby.

One great time is going to end and the other greater time is due to begin. All these weeks of pregnancy must have been a great feeling. The initial days when you knew you were pregnant, the attention you got from your partner and the first movements of your baby within your womb. Unforgettable experiences these are. You will experience greater ones after your baby comes into this part of your world. Bringing up the baby has been considered as the most completing experience for both men and women. But, mothers have the upper hand in it.

The right time

Many women experience labor pains naturally without any stimulation once they reach the full term or the expected date of delivery. Now, wondering which is your day? It’s generally calculated in weeks and full term is considered when you have completed 37 to 42 weeks of pregnancy since your last menstrual period. Babies born before this period are termed premature babies or preterm babies and babies born beyond the full term are known as post term babies.

Time before or time after

Premature babies are not mature enough to survive safely in the environment outside your womb. On the other hand, babies spending additional time in the mother’s womb may face some minor complications. Hence, the baby needs to be delivered at the right time and with the right procedure. If you are having a normal pregnancy and are not suffering from any underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure then you can opt for the natural method of delivery. On the other hand, doctors or your midwife may prescribe caesarean delivery (the baby is brought out through an incision placed on your abdomen) if they think that it’s the best way out for your baby.

Medical labor induction

Your doctor or the midwife uses two steps to induce labor. One is the application of prostaglandins to your cervix and the other is the administration of a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin. What do these both agents do? One dilates and the other contracts! Prostaglandins help in the softening and widening the cervix. This is the first step in the induction of labor. If the labor is initiated and sufficient amount of contractions are noted, it is allowed to progress. If not, oxytocin may be introduced through your veins to induce contractions in the uterus. This helps in the movement of the baby from the uterus to the outside.

If both these steps don’t work for you, then, you may have to go for a caesarean delivery. Any of the way followed, the doctor or your midwife will ensure that your baby is brought out safe and sound.

Sounds odd, isn’t it? Yeah that’s true and you read it right, Castor Oil for labor induction. You may remember using Castor Oil as a laxative and yes, the same action may induce labor naturally!

Natural labor induction is something you would want to have instead of getting it induced with the administration of medicines. Especially, if you are a true follower of natural therapies! Labor in simple terms is the process during which the baby is delivered. For this to happen you must have reached your term, which is about 37 to 42 weeks from the day of your last menses. The baby is grown and ready to come out by the time you complete the term of your pregnancy.

Now let’s come back to the wonder oil, Castor Oil! Castor oil is known to be a potent laxative agent that is generally advised in people suffering from constipation. It is known to stimulate bowel movements and also lead to cramps of the intestinal muscles. The second action is the one which can be beneficial for you. The cramps arising in the intestinal region can also spread to your uterus and induce labor. Now how successful can it be? Not sure. It has worked in many, while others have said it is useless.

Next question, how much to have? Not much, just about 2 ounces. Beware if you haven’t tasted it before, it may taste awful! You can try your imagination here and mix it with any food or beverage (referring only to fruit juices or milk shakes here!) so that the taste gets masked. You can get Castor Oil at your local store or in healthcare stores that sell herbal or natural oils and remedies.

The next doubt should have been the first and foremost question. Nevertheless, let’s get it clear. Safety of Castor Oil! Nobody gives a clear picture here. While some say it may induce meconium (earliest stools of your baby) formation other say that Castor Oil and meconium formation do not have any interlink. Adverse effects of Castor Oil? Can make you feel nauseated or even induce vomiting. At times it may result in severe cramps.

The best option? Ask your healthcare provider or your midwife. If they suggest that it is safe in your case, you can go ahead and try it! Nothing better than having your labor induced naturally.