How to Induce Labor

So you’ve put the time in, and as you near your 40-week mark, you are ready to have your new baby OUT and in your arms, right? We understand how hard it can be to wait once you’ve made it to your third trimester, but don’t stress. If you’re a first time mom, you are 80 percent more likely to go past your due date, and you’re not “officially” overdue until 42 weeks.

But once you’ve hit that 39-40 week mark, there are things you can do to help encourage the start of labor. We’ve done the digging to find the top things to help get things moving! We do not claim to be medical professionals, so always be sure to discuss your plans with your doctor or healthcare professional.

What to Eat

Bananas:

Bananas contain potassium, which is crucial in muscle contractions, and therefore can kickstart your body’s progression into labor. However, if consumed in large amounts, potassium can be dangerous. Make sure you only eat bananas in moderation each day and do not take any potassium supplements.

Dates:

There have been numerous studies done that show eating six date fruits a day leading up to your due date can make labor start sooner and go faster, while also helping with dilation. With a power punch like that and tasting delicious, dates are a great way to try and induce labor.

Pineapple:

Eating pineapple is one of the yummiest ways to induce labor. Best eaten fresh and raw, pineapple contains an enzyme called bromeliad. This enzyme can soften your cervix and therefore induce labor. So chop up some of that adorable fruit and get munching.

What to Do

Bouncing:

Bouncing on a birth/exercise ball can help turn babies into position and move them into the birth canal, which naturally starts the process. And it’s easy. Just find a comfy position and gently bounce up and down while you watch TV, read a book, etc.

Dancing:

You heard that right. Getting active and moving around will help get things started. It will also help when actual labor starts.

Massage and Acupuncture:

First and foremost, BE SURE to find a professional well versed with pregnant women. The last thing you need is an inexperienced masseuse or acupuncturist. But both acupuncture and massage are known to be very effective in inducing labor. There are various pressure points on the body that are known to induce labor when stimulated.

Squats:

Doing sets of squats each day helps to move baby down and into position. Even better, it can better prep your muscles for an easier and quicker labor … win-win!

Gettin’ it on:

Sex is actually a great way to induce labor. Between the movement of the act and your partner’s sperm (containing natural prostaglandins that help soften the cervix), sex provides a great assist in getting labor going. So enjoy that steamy night with your partner!

Remember that while all of these things are known to help induce labor, nothing is guaranteed. But trust us–they will show up, and when they do, you’ll forget all the waiting ever happened. And if you need help packing those bags for your big day, click over here!