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Ways to Induce Labor Yourself

Pregnancy should last for nine months, but some expectant mothers find that their due dates come and go without a contraction. With the extra weight of an unborn child creating aches and pains, it can be difficult to move or do everyday tasks. While a doctor can induce labor, some women would like to know simple ways to start labor on their own.

  1. Relaxation Techniques

    • Relaxation calms the mind and body, but it also can help to induce labor. Light a few scented candles before you submerge yourself in a warm bath. Put aside some time to get pampered by getting a manicure at a local salon.

      You also can relax tense muscles through the use of meditation. Find a quiet area in your home and do a few breathing exercises as you try to clear your mind. Visiting a spa for a prenatal full-body massage also can relieve your tension.

      Indulge in some of your regular activities. Take note of things that you did before you were pregnant. Pick out some of the activities that are safe for you and your baby, and try to have fun while you wait for labor to begin.

    Exercise

    • Getting some exercise is healthy for a pregnant woman, and it also can help to induce labor naturally. Take a slow walk around your neighborhood or use the time to run errands at locations that are near your home.

      When you go for a walk, take a bottle of water to replace fluids. For safety's sake, walk with another adult who can help if you go into labor.

    Special Diet

    • When a pregnant woman wants to induce labor, she often is told to eat spicy foods. Many expectant mothers have said this trick worked for them. Only eat spicy foods if you can tolerate them. If you can't, it likely will give you digestive problems.

      Other foods to eat to induce labor include island fruits such as mango, pineapple and kiwi. The fruits are said to contain enzymes that help to cause contractions.

    Herbal Remedies

    • Natural ways to induce labor have been around for a long time with the use of oils such as evening primrose oil. Visit herbal stores and you may also find blue and black cohosh herbs and castor oil.

      When a blend of equal parts blue cohosh and black cohosh is mixed, they become an effective tool in strengthening and regulating contractions.

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