9 Natural Labor Inducers

Okay, let's preface by saying I am no expert, and this is our first baby. However, these are all suggestions I've heard from my family (who procreate like rabbits), my doctor and Hypnobirthing. If it worked for them, why can't it work for us, right?!

Start at 32 Weeks

1. Perineal Massage

This isn't really an inducer, it's more for birth preparation. I'm seriously afraid of tearing, and I'm sure most of you are as well. Perineal massage should be done daily, and you should use some sort of oil. Olive oil will do or even coconut oil. This should be done for 5 mins nightly. Need a how to? Click here.

2. Raspberry Leaf Tea

Known to help tone uterine muscles, it also can start contractions. I've heard two different stories, where one woman drank the tea throughout pregnancy, and the other drank it around 38 weeks, and went into labor. Give it a shot, early, and see what happens. If you start getting contractions, hold off until about 38 weeks. Better safe than sorry. Want to purchase? Click here.

3. Evening Primrose Oil

You can find this here, or at a local health food store. Start taking 500mg orally around 32 weeks. This helps to boost your prostaglandin levels, essential for birthing. Want more info on the benefits? Click here.

Start at 37 Weeks

4. Evening Primrose Oil for Perineal Massage

Instead of taking orally, now break open the cap and use the content for perineal massage. Work the oil into the lining of your vagina. Get your spouse to help, it's way more fun.

Start at 38 Weeks

5. Eggplant Parmasean

My aunt swears by this! She usually does eggplant pizza though, but as long as you're downing some fried eggplant with sauce and cheese, it should work. It's also suggested in our Hypnobirthing book. Apparently there's a restaurant down in Georgia that women have been going to for years, that guarantees you'll go into labor within 48 hours. I kid you not. Also met another couple at one of our classes that said it worked for their second child.

6. Nipple Stimulation

Why not have a little fun trying to induce, right? Sexual acts, especially nipple stimulation have been known to start contractions. The build up of oxytocin, crucial for delivery, makes this act ideal. Don't do it early though, definitely wait until you're 38 weeks. This is also great if your labor slows down. If you're birthing in a hospital, ask for some privacy with your spouse for an hour, and have some fun. 

7. Sex

Yes, sex. This only works if your man ejaculates directly into your vagina. Semen contains prostoglandins that helps stimulate and soften the cervix. So if you're one of the lucky ones who can still handle some play time,  go to it.

8. Long Walk

Maybe wear more supportive shoes than Jenna did.

Walking is a fabulous way to get things moving. The more you walk, the more gravity will take a hold. Plus you're probably itching to get this kid moving, so why not waste an hour or two each day walking?

Start at 40 Weeks

9. Castor Oil

I know, gross. But it works. I've heard that the best way to down it is to take 1tsp of castor oil and mix it into ice cream, kind of like a milkshake. Sip it over an hour. Supposedly it will begin contractions.

Again, these are suggestions, and are not guarantees. Best of luck Mamas!

Any other suggestions you can think of?