Simple, natural ways to go into labor on your own.

Simple, Natural Ways to Help Your Body Go Into Labor on Its Own

Because as you may already know.. or may have been told... an induction doesn't necessarily mean you'll have a baby quickly.

And sometimes those inductions are medically necessary and work out perfectly. Other times you could be induced, and two days later you end up with an emergency c-section. Always ask questions to your provider or midwife so you fully understand their recommendations.

Note that this article should not be considered medical advice. Whether or not you want the epidural, you can use these tips to help your body go into spontaneous labor:

1. A calm nervous system during your pregnancy makes all the difference. Regulate through breathwork, rest, mindful movement like prenatal yoga, and physical touch. A calm body produces oxytocin naturally, (the same hormone used synthetically in medical inductions,) which supports spontaneous labor.
2. Eat the dates. Every time you think of it, eat a date. Make bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese, eat Larabars, buy date syrup to drizzle on top of everything. I’ve found that this does work and helps prevent tearing.
3. Drink red raspberry leaf tea. The active compounds are thought to strengthen uterine muscles, improving coordination and efficiency of contractions — potentially leading to shorter, smoother labor.
4. Bounce, grind, and roll on that yoga ball in late pregnancy and early labor. Using the ball encourages the natural physiology of labor, making contractions more productive and helping your body do what it’s designed to do.
5. Consistent exercise throughout your pregnancy. But you already know I was going to say that! Seriously though, consistent movement (like prenatal yoga and pelvic mobility work) keeps your pelvis balanced and spacious, helping the baby settle into an ideal position for labor to start on its own. Plus prenatal yoga it helps complete the stress cycle, and lowers the risk of preeclampsia. Because if you get preeclamptic, or even throw a couple high blood pressures in late pregnancy, they will induce you.
6. If all else fails, ask your provider if you are a candidate for a membrane sweep. I went into labor about an hour after one in my first pregnancy.
7. Stay calm, confident, and grateful. I'll say it again, the more relaxed you are, the more supported, loved, and happy you feel... the more likely you are to create natural oxytocin and go into labor on your own!

If you don't want to be induced and want support during your pregnancy, let’s chat about our my method of prenatal exercise can support your birth plan. We'll work together 1:1 in-person or on Zoom for 12 weeks so you feel amazing through pregnancy and prep for the birth you want. You can do this.