If you are reading this article, chances are you are pregnantand you may be tired of being so. You can’t sleep, you’ve got terrible heartburn, your back hurts and you’re constantly heading to the bathroom to relieve your pea-sized bladder. You’re looking for natural ways to induce labor and end the agony!
Babies really know when they are ready to come out. It doesn’t hurt, though, to get your body primed in the best possible manner to help commence junior’s arrival. Be sure that you do not try any techniques until you are at least at full term.
Also, take into consideration that the due date is simply a rough target estimate. It’s really nearly impossible to know exactly when the baby will come. There is a four week period between 38 and 42 weeks where it is considered on schedule. Anything that is past 42 weeks is considered “postdate.”
There are several things you can do to help prime your body and mind for labor. Meditation and massage are excellent for calming the body and mind. Meditation will help tremendously during labor because you will need to focus with much intensity during the process. Massage is relaxing for both the mind and body.
Sexual intercourse is another way to help ready your body for what’s about to come and possibly induce labor. Some women feel awkward in those last few weeks but give it a shot! The semen contains prostaglandins that serve to soften the cervix and help it to dilate. It has been known to kick-start many a lady into labor!
Castor oil is another way to induce labor. You can mix it with juice or food. Castor oil also stimulates prostaglandins to help with contracting the uterus. Be aware that there is the side effect of diarrhea. Be sure you have cleared this method with your doctor or midwife.
Spicy food has also been known to stimulate digestion and prostaglandin production. Also, be aware that you may have some heartburn after ingesting the spicy food. But, hey! You’ve had heartburn the whole time, so what’s a little more.
Acupressure is also a very effective way to induce labor naturally. Acupressure is similar to acupuncture as it utilizes certain points or meridians to balance the body’s energy system. Acupressure is an ancient method of healing used by practitioners in China and the Far East for many thousands of years. Maternity acupressure uses pressure from hands or fingers instead of needles on certain areas to release energy. It is very safe and highly effective in inducing labor. It is also a wonderful way to incorporate your partner into the labor process. Try this gentle and effective treatment before and during labor. You may be surprised to find out how well it works.
