how to induce labor naturally

If you’re reading this post, it’s possible that either your due date has gone or you’re attempting to overcome the induction of labor. Maybe, it’s even both things! Numerous women apply natural methods to induce labor.

As indicated by research, around half of pregnant women endeavors to get labor going themselves, while the rest just let it take its own way. If you decide to get some assistances to help the labor easier, you will discover a number of different methods. Some of them are below!

As I mom who gave first-time birth 6 years ago, I applied a few of the following, including acupressure, nipple stimulation, membrane stripping, and walking. They help me dilate my cervix to 5 cm. So, I’m sure that they’ll work.

Today, after researching from various sources, I found some extra solutions which help you answer the question: 37 weeks pregnant how to induce labor naturally. Let’s find out!

Things to Know Before Inducing Labor Naturally

First of all, you need to know that none of the following methods are 100% successful for everyone. That’s because no two pregnancies are the same and mostly because babies are just ready to go into a new world when they’re fully prepared.

In any case, there are always lots of considerations and risks you need to know before bringing on labor naturally. Here are some of them:

  • Natural labor induction is not a magic, but just a helping hand. If your body is not ready for it, don’t go into it.
  • Do your own particular study and research. Our methods below come with a short, brief explanation and recommendation. So, many pieces of important information can be missed. That’s why self-studying is crucial. Ensure you understand the techniques, efficiency as well as the risks. Try not to overstrain yourself with exercises or exceed the recommended dosages.
  • Try not to worry about being overdue. If your body and baby go right, you will not past due until 42 weeks.
  • If you have anything that you’re not sure, even a very small problem, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

37 Weeks Pregnant How To Induce Labor Naturally: Top 15 Methods

#1 Acupressure

For many years, acupressure has claimed its potency in alleviating vomiting and stopping vaginal bleeding during the early months of pregnancy. This therapy also has positive effects on inducing labor.

As you apply acupressure, you first need to determine acupressure points on your body. There are some in the ankles and toes.

If you want to know where exactly they are and how to stimulate them, take a look at this video:

#2 Nipple Stimulation

As you’re rubbing or rolling your nipples, your body will release Oxytocin – a hormone causing your uterus to contract and make it turn back to its pre-pregnancy size.

For how to induce labor naturally by nipple stimulation, you can choose to either do it manually or use tools.

  • With the first method, you simply rub or roll your nibbles gently by hands, or even let your partner do it with his mouth.
  • With the second choice, you will need a breast pump which provides even stronger stimulation and less effort.

#3 Membrane Stripping

Membrane stripping is one of the most common and reliable ways to induce labor. Doctors suggest it; the reality proves its potency, and research cannot found any side effects as well.

The only drawback of this method is that it might be painful.

Your doctor will wear a gloved finger, then insert it into your cervix, and gently sweep of the thin membranes to separate the amniotic sac from the uterine wall. The motion helps to release Prostaglandin and dilate the cervix.

#4 Walking

100% doctors recommend pregnant ladies to walk during pregnancy. That’s because the bumping up and down creates a force to draw the baby’s head into the pelvis, and thus, ease the labor.

Walking daily at every morning for about 20 minutes. If it doesn’t work, you might consider increasing the range of motion by stepping further.

You can also try to walk up the steep hill, or up and down stairs. Just make sure you don’t walk too much, especially a week before the big day.

#5 Sex

Even though there has been no clear scientific evidence or proof showing sex can induce labor yet, there exists some reasons why this indispensable demand might.

Firstly, sperm contains Prostaglandin – a compound that acts like a hormone with the ability to dilate the cervix. Of course, if your partner wears a condom, no sperm can penetrate to your cervix.

Secondly, sex relieves your desire of eroticism, which is good because after giving birth, you and your partner have to wait for three weeks before making love again.

#6 Acupuncture

Acupuncture helps to stimulate the Oxytocin releasing process, and that’s why it’s able to induce labor.

In a study distributed by the Journal of Perinatal Medicine, more than 400 ladies experienced either acupuncture or membrane stripping or both before their labors. There were no considerable contrasts in the results among the three groups.

This means both methods have the same positive effects, and yes, just a few participants need medical inductions, while the majority doesn’t.

#7 Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is a natural source of Prostaglandin. A linolenic acid found in EPO has the ability to soften the cervix. It comes in form of capsules which you can take orally or internally after the 37th week.

For the first times, start with the minimal dosage (about 500mg), then gradually increase until reaching 2,000mg.

Keep in mind that EPO might come with some minor side effects, including headaches and gastrointestinal upset, so do your own research before taking any further step.

#8 Castor Oil

Castor oil is a vegetable oil and a laxative. Taking a small amount of it helps you stimulate our guts by triggering spasms in the intestines, which result in aggravating your uterus and make it begin contracting.

However, castor oil has a drawback. For those who has an unstable digestion system, it can cause diarrhea. So, consider the results of castor oil deliberately and consult your doctor before taking even a spoon.

#9 Clary Sage Oil

Clary sage oil has a lot of benefits, and one of them is pain relief and labor promotion. Indeed, it’s very strong and might induce contraction too much. That’s why it’s contraindicated for use at any other time during pregnancy.

Consult your doctor to get the right time and dosage.

#10 Bananas

Bananas contain a high portion of potassium which plays a vital role in muscle contractions, together with calcium and sodium. As a result, the deficiency of potassium in muscles could potentially delay labor.

My advice for you is to consume a moderate number of bananas as well as keep off potassium supplements.

#11 Spicy Foods

Prostaglandin is released as your digestive system receives spicy foods. And as I said many times before, this hormone alleviates the intestines and trigger contractions in the uterus.

Even though there is no clear evidence demonstrating its potency, it doesn’t harm your body. One or two chili tacos cannot create difficulties for your stomach. So, why don’t you out for some Mexican dishes tonight!

#12 Black/Blue Cohosh

In fact, black and blue cohosh are two different herbs but mixed together in a tincture form.

Since they’re natural, midwives suggest them to induce post-term labor for hundreds of years. They keep the labor moving along at a moderate pace and encourage uterine contractions.

Use it as you need; just make sure you don’t take more than the manufacturer recommends.

#13 Pineapple or Mango or Kiwi

There’s a proteolytic enzyme, called Bromeliad, found in pineapples, mangoes or kiwis. It has been proven to soften the cervix as well as stimulate the stomach muscle.

Besides, since the enzyme will be destroyed while cooking, you have to eat these fruits as they’re still fresh and raw. Pineapple to induce labor is a natural way, but overeating may result in heartburn or diarrhea in some cases.

#14 Raspberry Leaves

The study has shown that Raspberry leaves are potent in softening the cervix and intensity the whole pelvic region. Also, this herb contains dozens of vitamins and minerals which are important for a stronger uterus.

Although Raspberry leaves can come in the form of pills, Raspberry tea is always a better choice which offers you both taste and medical benefits.

You can start taking it at about 34 weeks.

#15 Motherwort

Motherwort is a great herb which is recommended to use at the end of a pregnancy. It controls the Braxton Hicks contractions and helps them more effective. It’s able to stop false labor as well. Taken soon after giving birth, it can also ease your nerves and prevent postpartum depression.

Final Thought

Keep in mind that no two pregnancies are the same. So, it’s understandable that no method or technique is guaranteed to work for everybody.

Also, don’t forget to consult your doctor carefully before taking any further step with the natural induction.

If you find any other solution for the question: 37 weeks pregnant how to induce labor naturally, please leave your idea below. I really appreciate your support! Thank you for reading!

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