If you are full term and ready to get labor started, you may be looking for ways to help move the process along. While there are no foolproof methods to immediately start contractions, there are some things you can try drinking that might help prepare your body for labor.
Why would I want to jump start labor?
There are a few reasons why you might want to naturally induce labor close to your due date:
- You are uncomfortable and ready to meet your baby
- Your doctor recommends inducing labor for medical reasons
- You want to give birth before your due date due to travel plans or other scheduling reasons
While it’s usually best to let labor start naturally, your healthcare provider may approve trying some natural induction techniques if you are full term.
When should I avoid trying to induce labor?
You should always discuss natural induction methods with your doctor before trying anything. Most providers recommend against inducing labor before 39 weeks unless there is a medical need. Some reasons to avoid inducing labor include:
- You are not yet full term – early labor has more risks
- Your cervix or birth canal are not ready
- You have placental complications like placenta previa
- You are at risk for uterine rupture
- Your baby is in an unsafe position like breech or transverse
If your water breaks before labor starts, call your provider since infection can occur if labor does not start within 24 hours.
What drinks may stimulate labor?
There are some foods and beverages thought to help ripen the cervix or cause mild uterine contractions that could set labor into motion. Here are some of the most common ones:
Red raspberry leaf tea
Red raspberry leaf tea contains compounds that may help tone the uterus. Some studies show it may shorten labor and reduce interventions. Drink 1-3 cups per day starting at 36 weeks.
Dates
Eating 6 dates per day in the last weeks of pregnancy may help dilate the cervix and induce labor. Dates are high in compounds that stimulate contractions.
Pineapple
Fresh, raw pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme thought to help soften the cervix. Eat a few servings just before your due date.
Spicy foods
Spicy foods like hot peppers and curries may stimulate contractions through gastrointestinal irritation. However, they often just cause indigestion.
Castor oil
Castor oil may stimulate the bowels and uterus. However, it causes intense diarrhea and dehydration and is not recommended.
Alcohol
While some claim wine or beer might start labor, avoid alcohol while pregnant as it reaches the baby. A small amount may relax you before labor.
Fruit juices
Drinking citrus juices like orange, pineapple, mango and lemon may help stimulate mild contractions. But avoid grapefruit juice due to medication interactions.
Sexual stimulation
Having an orgasm releases oxytocin, a hormone that causes uterine contractions. Sex and nipple stimulation are safe ways to naturally induce labor when term.
Squatting
Doing squats and lunges can help get the baby in the optimal birthing position and strengthen contractions. Walking and light exercise also help.
Nipple stimulation
Massaging or pumping your nipples releases oxytocin which may lead to contractions. Do this with caution as it can cause intense contractions.
Evening primrose oil
Taking evening primrose oil capsules is thought to help ripen the cervix. But evidence on its effectiveness is limited.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture may stimulate labor by releasing oxytocin and prostaglandins. Find an acupuncturist trained in labor induction.
Other ways to encourage labor
In addition to drinking some labor-stimulating beverages, here are some other ideas for getting labor started:
- Have sex
- Walk and stay active
- Get a massage
- Use birthing balls
- Try yoga positions
- Acupressure
- Listen to relaxation music
- Go into water – bath or pool
When to call your provider
Contact your healthcare provider right away if:
- You experience significant contractions (5 minutes apart for 1 hour)
- Your water breaks
- You have any bleeding from the vagina
- You have decreased fetal movement
- You have vaginal discharge with a foul odor
- You have a fever, chills, vomiting, or other signs of infection
Labor induction techniques are not guaranteed to work. If labor does not start within 24 hours after your due date, call your doctor to discuss other options. Never take medications, herbs or extremely large doses of the beverages listed here without medical approval.
The takeaway
There are many natural ways to encourage your body to start labor when you are full term, such as drinking certain teas and juices. However, none of these methods are proven to immediately induce labor. It is best to wait for labor to begin on its own unless there are medical reasons to induce. Always talk to your doctor before attempting to self-induce labor.
Pay attention to possible signs of labor beginning like contractions, diarrhea, nausea, pelvic pressure, or a change in vaginal discharge. With your provider’s approval, stay active and try some of the natural induction techniques listed here. But do not become overly anxious if labor does not start – your baby will come when they are ready!
Frequently Asked Questions
What drink works best to induce labor?
There is no one “best” drink proven to induce labor quickly. Some options to try are red raspberry leaf tea, orange juice, mango juice, pineapple juice, or eating 6 dates per day. But none of these are sure methods.
How can I induce labor instantly?
There is no safe way to instantly induce labor on your own. The only way to immediately induce labor is at the hospital with medical interventions like Pitocin or breaking your water. Natural induction techniques may help get labor started, but not right away.
At what week is it safe to induce labor?
Healthcare providers typically recommend against inducing labor before 39 completed weeks of pregnancy unless medically necessary. Labor is generally safe to induce anytime between 39-40 weeks. Your doctor can help determine the safest timing for you.
How long does it take for labor to start after using castor oil?
If castor oil is going to induce labor, contractions may begin within 2-6 hours after taking it. However, there are risks to using castor oil and it is not recommended. Speak to your doctor before taking castor oil.
Can you induce labor by just walking?
Walking cannot directly induce labor on its own, but it can help prepare the body for labor. Going for regular walks near your due date helps keep you active, improves baby’s position, and may indirectly stimulate contractions through muscle activity.
| Drink | How It May Help Induce Labor |
|---|---|
| Red Raspberry Leaf Tea | Tones the uterus, may help strengthen contractions |
| Fresh Dates | Softens the cervix, provides compounds that stimulate contractions |
| Pineapple Juice | Contains bromelain enzyme thought to help ripen the cervix |
| Orange Juice | Provides vitamin C and may help stimulate mild contractions |
| Mango Juice | May stimulate intestine to increase prostaglandin release |
| Lemon Juice | Contains flavonoids that may stimulate contractions |
Conclusion
Trying natural labor induction techniques near your due date can be safe when approved by your provider. Drinking beverages like red raspberry leaf tea, orange juice, and specific fruit juices may indirectly help labor progress by stimulating contractions. However, there is no guarantee when labor will start. Stay patient, talk to your doctor, and call right away if your water breaks or you have signs of labor beginning.