Inducing Labor At Home, Facts & Fiction

When I was pregnant, I found that there is a lot of old and inaccurate information going around. I've done the research and chatted with a medical professional about when and how, you may safely attempt home induction.

Before getting into this article, I want to do a bit of a disclaimer here. 

I'm not a medical professional, I in no way condone inducing labor at home any sooner than 40 weeks into pregnancy. Based on new research, full term is 40 weeks. Early full term begins at 37 weeks and doctors won't let you go past 42 weeks. As the placenta begins to stop functioning after 42 weeks. I only recommend it to avoid medical induction. However these methods aren't 100% either. 

Babies tend to come whenever they're ready. 

Except in  some cases, where they need  to be helped along by your doctors.

Every pregnancy is different, your doctor will know what is best for you.

When I was pregnant, I would frequent the Ovia app. Everyday in the chat, someone would ask about home induction methods. 

It is a very popular topic, but a lot of the advice being passed around, just isn't true.

Here are a few of the most popular true, and false ways to kick start your labor.

Castor Oil

One of the most recommended ways to induce is with Castor Oil.

It has worked in some cases..

 However, I do not recommend it, as the side effects are miserable. Some studies have found it to also be possibly dangerous to your baby.

What is Castor Oil? 

Simply put, it's a very strong laxative.

Trust me, I know what it's like to want the baby out. My girl stayed in for 41 weeks and 2 days, I had to be medically induced. I tried everything except Castor Oil. 

I found a fantastic site with heaps of information about it. 

Please educate yourself about the risks associated with it.

Link

Sex or Masturbation

This is actually what my doctor recommended for me.

I've heard of it working for a lot of different women.

 But at 40+ weeks, for myself, sex was the last thing on my mind. 

If you can manage it, bravo for you. 

Here's a site on some easier positions while pregnant. ;) 

Link

How does sex help you go into labor? Having sex releases the chemical oxytocin, which can help bring on contractions.

Semen, because of it's prostaglandins, can help to soften your cervix. Which may make your labor easier.

So, go get it! That is, if you have the energy. 

Walking

Walking everyday is important for several reasons. The first being that you should stay active to prepare for labor. You can't run a marathon, unless you're prepared. It's similar for labor, having that extra stamina will help you out. Walking releases Oxytocin and can also help to bring your baby downwards, in an ideal position for delivery. 

It might not start labor, but it's still good for you and baby.

Nipple Stimulation

It's seems odd, but nipple stimulation can also help kick start your labor. 

It's another method of releasing oxytocin.

You can do it yourself, or have your partner help. Generally 15 minutes or more on each side is the ideal amount of stimulation.

 Some women will also pump, here are a few ways to save your colostrum. 

Link

Exercise Ball

This is actually a false fact, as it will not bring on labor. However, buying one will benefit you in many ways. 

Bouncing on an exercise ball may help to bring your baby down and in a correct position for delivery. 

I found my ball also to be my favorite chair while pregnant. 

It's also fantastic to help you with postpartum workouts. 

My favorite exercise ball

Spicy Foods

This is actually a myth, no studies have proven it to work. A few people claim it worked for them, it was however most likely a coincidence. 

But if you enjoy spicy food, go for it girl!

Pineapple

Again, a myth as no studies have linked it with starting labor. It might possibly soften your cervix, but that hasn't been proven to work. So enjoy your pineapple! Just don't over do it, as you'll give yourself a stomach ache.

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

I've heard so much misinformation about this one. It will not cause labor, however it is beneficial to drink during pregnancy. You can start drinking it at the start of your second trimester, and continue drinking 1-3 cups a day for the rest of your pregnancy. It can help soften your cervix and may make your labor easier or shorter.

It doesn't taste like raspberries, it smells like licorice, tastes like black tea. Here's a site with more information.

Link

Evening Primrose Oil

This is yet another false fact, as it won't start your labor.

However, if you take 500 - 2,000 mg daily, after your 38th week, it may help to soften your cervix and shorten your labor. Some women take it orally in pill form. Others insert the gel capsules in their vaginas. If you choose to do that, wear a pad and do it before bed, or when you will be sitting for a while.

It's a very messy process.. Trust me.

                                                              Link for more information

It can be frustrating when baby gets too comfy and doesn't want to leave their warm, snug homes. 

But do your best to stay optimistic! 

You've come so far, there isn't very much further to go. 

Don't forget how amazing you are in this whole process.

You'll have your entire life with your baby, try to revel in this freedom while you still can. 

You already done great things, just imagine how much incredible stuff you'll do.

~Katie~

Bringing Your Baby On Transit

The first little while with a new baby is daunting in many ways. If you frequent transit typically, you might be having anxiety over bringing your baby on it.

I waited almost three months before bringing my girl on transit, I had something preventing myself from going. 

We are all guilty of it, try to not overthink the situation. Keep in mind that bus drivers are used to strollers and kids. 

A lot of people are friendly and helpful on transit when they see a parent.

Just breathe, it'll all be okay. 

Stroller: 

One of my biggest struggles was figuring out how to get my stroller on and off the bus. I have a huge Graco jogging stroller, tight spaces are difficult for me. 

The first time I got on a bus, the driver told me that I should have backed my stroller inside. Later that day, I did, and I was told that I should have gone in, stroller first. I learned that it's all just opinions. Try both ways, whatever is more comfortable for you, is the right way. If anyone says otherwise, shrug it off.

Where To Park It: 

Busses have designed spots for wheelchairs and strollers. Typically at the front of the bus. I ran into an odd issue one day. After getting on the bus, a man in a wheelchair got on, he asked me to move to the other side. Apperantly the side I was on, is specifically for wheelchairs. I had no idea, there was no sign, the driver hadn't said anything. Every bus is different, you might run into something like this. Take it all in stride, most people are understanding. You learn something new everyday after all. 

Timing is everything:

Typically I try to plan any appointments or outings, during the off hours. Around 9Am and coming home by 3Pm seems to be the least busy transit hours. 

If you're able to plan around those times, you won't find yourself struggling through a busy bus or train.

Also, the key to being on time is leaving earlier than you should. For instance, I have an appointment at 10Am. I know that it takes me an hour in a half to get there on transit. So I'll leave two hours in advance. If I'm early, I'll just grab a coffee nearby. Being on time with a baby is so hard! 

Prepare For Talking:

For some reason, when people see a parent, they want to chat. 

Generally I find it pleasant, I'm from a small town, so I'm used to that. Some days however, when you've gotten very little sleep, it can be annoying. Just recognize how you're feeling, realize it's not the strangers fault, and try to not bite anyone's head off.

Sympathy crying:

My baby girl was a sympathetic crier for the first few months. Your little one might be different, they may not even care at all. However, don't be surprised if another crying child sets off your own.

Distractions:

Transit can be hard enough, without your baby screaming as well. I completely switched my anti-pacifier views, after a few rough bus rides. 

Bringing a few favorite toys along can help to distract your little one. Mine loves her crinkly stuffy! Or you can always buy those toys that clip onto the stroller, so that your little one can't throw it over. One of my personal favorites is this .

It clips onto your carseat or stroller, and is a pretty fun activity center! It's not safe to use in your car, but it's absolutely fine in a stroller.

I'm sure there are a lot of other great products out there, but these things have worked best for myself. 

Better To Have and Not Need:

I'm guilty of over packing, always have been. But I find that quirk, very handy now! I bring two blankets with me, unless it's very hot outside, then it's just one. I bring extra milk, wipes and diapers. I also bring a small first aid kit with every essential in it, as well as Tylenol for babies flu, just in case.

That's all of my advice for you parents out there!

I can't promise that you won't be anxious. But at least least you'll know what to expect. I would love to hear your transit experiences in the comments.

~Katie~