Natural induction
Almost 30% (source NHS Digital) of all births are medically induced and when medically necessary can be life saving. 70% of these inductions are due to baby being overdue.
Evidence shows medical induction can increase the need for intervention and can cause a slower birth, increasing the chance of caesarean birth (source NICE Guidelines). Induction is therefore not without its risks or discomfort and should always be considered with care.
The last days of pregnancy can be uncomfortable and exhausting for expectant mums who may not be sleeping well. And so, it is understandable that many women seek alternative methods to help bring on their labour. So, which of these methods are simply birth myths and which have some evidence behind them?
Raspberry leaf tea – There is very little research to show that this brings on labour. It is thought to help build muscle tone, giving all those pelvic floor exercises (that you’ve most likely forgotten to do) a helping hand. So possibly no assistance in bringing on labour, but might help for the ‘pushing’ stage. *
Dates – No, not the romantic type! There is some research to back this one up, it states that women who consumed 6 dates per day from 36 weeks of pregnancy were less likely to need induction and were coming into hospital more dilated than those who had not consumed dates (source ).
If you like dates, it’s worth trying. They seem to have a similar effect on the body as oxytocin, the hormone needed for birth and have been widely used in Africa for this purpose, as well as being mentioned in the Qur ‘an relating to labour and birth.
Reflexology – There is evidence that regular reflexology may reduce labour length and intensity. If you have been having regular treatments, then the process of inducing labour might be easier. This is also an incredibly relaxing treatment, which can also help to boost oxytocin – our birth hormone.
Acupuncture – This can provide a gentle way to induce labour and there is evidence to show it can be up to 88% effective, if you have had regular treatment throughout your pregnancy (source ).
Curry – The theory is the hotter and spicier, the better to get your bowels working! Probably not advisable unless you really enjoy hot curry anyway, as there is no medical proof behind this!
Sex – It’s thought that that prostaglandin present within semen can help ripen your cervix. In addition, we produce oxytocin when we make love and with nipple and clitoral stimulation. Oxytocin is imperative for birth and stimulates uterine contractions. All in all this sounds like the perfect solution, but currently there is no scientific evidence behind it (source www.evidencebasedbirth.com).
Please note sex is not advised once your waters have broken.
Pineapple – The idea is bromelain levels within the pineapples core are thought to stimulate prostaglandins, which soften your cervix. You need to eat an awful lot (between 5-12) – most likely making you more nauseous, than ready to give birth and the acidity might give you heartburn! No evidence for this at all!
In conclusion, there is very little you can do to bring on labour. You need to be relaxed in order for oxytocin to peak, so perhaps some Hypnobirthing relaxations and visualisations can help you along a little, but ultimately patience is paramount and all babies make an appearance in their own time.
*Please check with your healthcare providers before considering any form of induction, natural or medical.