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Natural Labor Induction

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Natural Labor Induction

Many women giving birth wish to avoid an invasive medical labor induction.  There are many natural labor induction techniques which are safe, effective alternatives to such things as pitocin, cervidil, and other such drugs.

The advantages of natural labor induction is that these techniques will only be effective if the mother's body is ready for labor.  Thus they carry little to no risk.  When a medical induction is started, there is usually no turning back.  If the mother's body isn't ready, a c-section may be at the end of the road.

Effective Methods of Natural Labor Induction

Here is a guide to the most effective natural labor induction techniques, including links to dispel myths about certain methods.
  1. Acupressure
    This is a non-invasive natural labor induction method that has good results. Even if it doesn't put you into labor, it's a great relaxation technique.
  2. Herbs
    Another effective method of labor induction that works by toning the uterus rather than actually starting contractions.
  3. Nipple Stimulation
    This is one of the most effective methods. It works by stimulating the production of oxytocin, the natural hormone that causes contractions. This is also a great method for regulating contractions during early labor or if labor slows.
  4. Sex
    Although probably not the top choice on your list at nine months pregnant, the prostaglandins released help the cervix to efface and dilate.
  5. Castor Oil
    Definitely the least-appetizing of the natural labor induction methods. Castor oil is disgusting but can help stimulate intestinal contractions which in turn stimulate uterine contractions. This is definitely a last resort.
  6. Foods
    While many women will swear that those spicy enchiladas put them into labor, the jig is up! There is no statistical evidence to prove that foods induce labor.

Must-Haves for Natural Childbirth

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Share Your Tips for Natural Labor Induction

Share your experience in using any of these natural labor induction methods or post your own!

  • pangaloon Aug 7, 2011 @ 4:24 pm | delete
    I would recommend using Castor Oil as a pain relief aid. It has been used historically for this.Place oil onto a cotton muslin or similar, and apply heat. I did this with a hot water bottle. I love all of your tips, and am pro home and natural birth. I think it is wonderful that you are highlighting these important topics.
  • Her-Motorcycle Nov 6, 2007 @ 11:24 am | delete
    Five stars here, too!
    Very informative!
  • LWidjaja Jul 29, 2007 @ 9:19 pm | delete
    Hi! Nice lens you have. Although I am not giving birth naturally but I admire people who do that. Thanks for providing useful information for everyone.
  • michael-logan Jul 18, 2007 @ 6:58 am | delete
    Hi Catherine,

    Your lens brings back memories of our preparations for our son's birth. He was born at the hospital, but without drugs, and he was talking to us as he emerged. Actually I think he was a bit irritated, but has since calmed a bit. He is nine now, and hurray for SBI too. Mike
  • justimajen Jul 8, 2007 @ 5:23 pm | delete
    You have some wonderful information on here that many women will find very beneficial! Thanks for sharing with us, and best of luck!
    Jennifer
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Giving Birth Naturally

Keep informed on all things related to natural childbirth including the latest natural childbirth videos or brush up on your childbirth knowledge with online childbirth classes or visit the Online Childbirth Classes FAQ for more information.
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The natural births of my two daughters sparked my passion for spreading the word about natural childbirth. Childbirth is a gift.  Cherish it well.... more »

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