"Patience or a Nudge? Natural Labor Induction Methods - Doula approved!"
As a doula with over a decade of experience in Birth, I’m passionate about supporting families in making informed decisions about their birth experience. The most common question I get from expecting parents is, "Are there natural ways to encourage labor?" While I am a firm believer that there is nothing natural about inducing labor ◡̈ , I understand (from my own four pregnancy experiences) how challenging it is to find patience in your last few weeks of pregnancy and how exciting it is to look forward to finally meeting your baby. Although, no one can predict the exact timing of your baby’s birth (this typically happens when the hormones & physiology align), some natural methods may support the body’s natural progression toward labor. Today, I want to dive deeper into this topic and encourage you on your path to meeting your baby!
What does it take for active labor to start?
From the first moments of pregnancy, a beautiful dance takes place between your baby and your body. Throughout your pregnancy, your body is working hard to release nourishment and resources to your baby for a rapid growth that takes place every day. This dance takes turns and twirls and changes with each passing week. During the last month of pregnancy the hormones that prepare your body for labor get activated when the baby releases them and indicates to your body that he or she is ready to meet mom and dad! Your body is also working hard to prepare all the systems for the marathon ahead. Not a single pregnant woman stayed pregnant forever, babies do come on their own time, IF they are allowed to ◡̈ It is a beautiful thing when labor beings on its own - the body follows its natural process and labor is usually gentle, yet effective.
What can you do while you wait for your body to kick into labor?
The best thing you can do is to keep your body nourished, rest-full and stress free - this will allow for all your hormones to activate and will signal “safety” to start labor. The best advice I can give you is to make your last few days or weeks of pregnancy a time of self care & rest. Do things that make you happy, enjoy a massage, eat good food, take NAPS (because it will be hard to do once your precious baby is here) and enjoy special time with your partner! Plan fun activities and meetings with friends, something to keep your mind off the pressure to have to go into labor soon. If you have fears or worries about approaching labor process or motherhood, talk to a trusted someone who will validate, encourage and provide you with education on the unknowns.
Whatever you do - DO NOT listen to scary stories of labor & birth, but rather, fill yourselves with positive, encouraging Birth stories. One of my favorite books to suggest to my clients is Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth. This book is filled with so many incredible birth stories, it will help you to trust your body every step of the way!
Natural Ways to encourage Labor to start!
Finally, here is the part you have all been waiting for ◡̈ Here are a few things that are doula - approved to try to support your body during the last few weeks of pregnancy. Disclamer! You must always check in about every one of these with your healthcare provider, because as a doula, I am not in a position to recommend things without their consent first ◡̈
Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: Myth or Magic?
Red raspberry leaf tea is often recommended in the birth world as a uterine tonic, said to strengthen the uterus and potentially aid in a smoother labor. But what does the science say?
This herbal tea has been used for centuries in midwifery and herbal medicine. The idea is that it helps tone the uterine muscles, making contractions more efficient when labor begins. Some women drink it in the second and third trimesters, increasing intake closer to their due date.
A 1999 study published in the Australian College of Midwives Journal suggested that consuming raspberry leaf might reduce the likelihood of medical interventions like forceps or vacuum delivery. However, the difference in labor duration was not statistically significant. This means while the tea may offer some benefits, it’s not a magic bullet for starting labor.
How to Use It:
Many midwives recommend starting with one cup a day in the second trimester and gradually increasing to 2-3 cups by the third trimester.
It can be consumed hot or cold, with honey and lemon for taste.
Some women prefer raspberry leaf capsules instead of tea.
Safety Considerations:
If you have a history of preterm labor, consult your provider before consuming it.
Some people experience mild cramping or Braxton Hicks contractions when starting the tea—this is normal, but if you’re unsure, check with your healthcare team.
Dates for Labor Preparation: A Natural and Nutritious Option
Eating dates during pregnancy, particularly in the final weeks, is another natural method that has gained popularity for its potential benefits in labor preparation. Dates are packed with nutrients, fiber, and natural sugars, making them an excellent snack for expecting mothers. But can they really help with labor?
What the Research Says
Studies suggest that eating dates in the final weeks of pregnancy may help with cervical ripening and a smoother labor process. A 2011 study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that women who consumed six dates per day for four weeks before their due date were:
More likely to go into spontaneous labor without medical induction.
Less likely to need interventions like Pitocin to strengthen contractions.
Found to have shorter first stages of labor compared to those who didn’t eat dates.
While more research is needed, these findings suggest that dates may support the body's natural labor preparation process.
How to Incorporate Dates into Your Diet
Start eating six dates per day around 36 weeks of pregnancy for potential benefits.
Blend dates into smoothies for a naturally sweet and nutritious boost.
Use them in energy bites with nuts, seeds, and coconut for a healthy snack. Larabar has 2 dates per bar!
Chop them up and add them to oatmeal, yogurt, or salads.
Safety and Considerations
Dates are high in natural sugars, so if you have gestational diabetes, consult with your provider before consuming them in large amounts.
If you’re not used to eating fiber-rich foods, introduce them gradually to avoid digestive discomfort.
Gentle Birth Tincture: An Herbal Support for Labor Preparation
A gentle birth tincture is a blend of herbs traditionally used to support the body as it prepares for labor. These tinctures often contain ingredients such as black cohosh, blue cohosh, motherwort, and red raspberry leaf, all of which are believed to aid in softening the cervix, strengthening contractions, and balancing hormones in preparation for birth.
How It Works
Helps tone the uterus and encourage efficient contractions.
May assist in cervical ripening, making labor progression smoother.
Some formulations also include calming herbs to reduce anxiety and stress before labor.
How to Use It
Many midwives suggest taking a gentle birth tincture starting at 37-38 weeks of pregnancy under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Dosage varies depending on the formulation, so always follow the instructions provided or consult with your midwife or herbalist.
Can be taken in water or juice to help with taste.
Here is an amazon link to purchase the tincture
Safety and Considerations
Some of the herbs in these tinctures, like blue cohosh, can have strong effects and should only be used under professional guidance.
If you have a history of pregnancy complications, always discuss herbal supplements with your provider.
Not all tinctures are created equally, so sourcing from a reputable herbalist or midwifery supply shop is important.
Sex as a Natural Labor Induction Method
Sex is often suggested as a natural way to encourage labor due to the combination of physical and hormonal effects it has on the body. There are a few key reasons why intimacy with your partner might help prepare your body for labor:
How Sex May Help Induce Labor
Prostaglandins: Semen contains prostaglandins, which can help soften and ripen the cervix in preparation for labor.
Oxytocin Release: Sexual activity, particularly orgasm, triggers the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for contractions.
Pelvic Stimulation: The physical act of intercourse can increase blood flow to the pelvis and stimulate the cervix, potentially encouraging dilation.
Is It Safe?
In most low-risk pregnancies, sex is safe up until labor begins. However, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you have a high-risk pregnancy, a history of preterm labor, or if your water has already broken.
If sex becomes uncomfortable in late pregnancy, alternative forms of intimacy, such as nipple stimulation, can also encourage oxytocin release.
While sex may not immediately induce labor, it can be a fun and relaxing way to support your body's natural labor preparation process.
Warm Baths and Body Relaxation for Labor Preparation
Taking a warm bath is a well-known relaxation technique that can also aid in labor preparation. Hydrotherapy, or the use of water for comfort and relaxation, is frequently recommended by midwives and birth professionals to help ease tension and encourage the body to progress naturally toward labor.
How Warm Baths Help with Labor Preparation
Promotes Relaxation: Warm water soothes sore muscles and reduces overall stress, helping the body release tension and prepare for labor.
Encourages Oxytocin Production: The calming effect of warm water may promote the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for triggering contractions.
Eases Pelvic Discomfort: Buoyancy in water reduces pressure on joints and ligaments, making it easier to move and shift positions comfortably.
Supports Cervical Ripening: When combined with other labor preparation techniques, warm baths can help soften the cervix and encourage dilation.
Best Practices for Warm Baths in Late Pregnancy
Temperature Matters: Keep the water warm but not too hot (around 98–100°F) to prevent overheating, which can be harmful to both mother and baby.
Add Relaxing Elements: Epsom salts, lavender essential oil (used with caution), or chamomile can enhance the relaxation effects.
Stay Hydrated: Warm baths can cause mild sweating, so keep water or an electrolyte drink nearby.
Timing: Some women find a warm bath most helpful before bed to promote restful sleep, while others prefer it as a midday relaxation technique.
Safety Considerations
Avoid warm baths if your water has broken unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.
Always have support nearby if you feel lightheaded or unstable getting in and out of the tub.
If you have high-risk pregnancy conditions, check with your provider before using hydrotherapy for labor preparation.
Body Work for Labor Preparation: Chiropractic Care, Massage, and Craniosacral Therapy
Body work therapies, such as chiropractic care, massage, and craniosacral therapy, can play a vital role in preparing the body for labor. These techniques help align the pelvis, reduce tension, and encourage optimal fetal positioning, all of which contribute to a smoother birth experience.
Chiropractic Care for Labor Preparation
Pelvic Alignment: Proper alignment of the pelvis and spine can create more space for the baby to move into an optimal birth position.
Nervous System Support: Chiropractic adjustments help the nervous system function efficiently, promoting better communication between the brain and the uterus.
Webster Technique: A specialized chiropractic technique designed for pregnancy that helps align the pelvis and release tension in the uterine ligaments.
Prenatal Massage for Relaxation and Readiness
Relieves Muscle Tension: Prenatal massage helps relax tight muscles, particularly in the lower back and hips, which bear the extra weight of pregnancy.
Encourages Circulation: Improved blood flow aids in reducing swelling and promoting relaxation.
Supports Hormonal Balance: Massage can help lower stress hormones while increasing oxytocin, the hormone responsible for contractions.
Craniosacral Therapy for Birth Preparation
Gentle Realignment: This subtle therapy focuses on releasing restrictions in the craniosacral system, which can help reduce stress and tension in the body.
Encourages Baby’s Positioning: By addressing restrictions in the pelvis and sacrum, craniosacral therapy can support optimal fetal alignment for birth.
Calming and Grounding: Many pregnant individuals report feeling deeply relaxed and more connected to their baby after a session.
Incorporating these body work techniques into your prenatal routine can help ensure that your body is well-prepared for labor, reducing discomfort and optimizing birth outcomes.
**Check out the list of my favorite providers in the area under Resources Tab on my website!
Pregnancy Stretches and The Miles Circuit for Labor Preparation - a MUST!
Incorporating gentle stretching and movement into your daily routine can help prepare your body for labor. Certain pregnancy stretches and techniques like The Miles Circuit can encourage optimal fetal positioning and ease tension in the body.
Pregnancy Stretches for Labor Readiness
Deep Squats: Helps open the pelvis and strengthens the legs for labor.
Butterfly Stretch: Loosens the hips and promotes flexibility in the pelvic area.
Pelvic Tilts: Reduces lower back discomfort and encourages fetal engagement.
Cat-Cow Stretch: Enhances spinal mobility and relieves tension in the back.
Side-Lying Stretch: Eases tightness in the hips and supports pelvic balance.
The Miles Circuit: Encouraging Optimal Positioning
The Miles Circuit is a three-step sequence of movements designed to encourage the baby into an ideal position for birth. It’s particularly useful for babies in less-than-optimal positions or for helping labor progress.
Open-Knee Chest Position: Helps lift the baby out of the pelvis to allow for repositioning.
Side-Lying Release: Loosens the pelvic muscles and ligaments, making room for baby’s descent.
Upright & Asymmetrical Movements: Walking, lunges, or sitting on a birth ball helps engage baby in the pelvis and encourage contractions.
Practicing these stretches and movements regularly in the final weeks of pregnancy can help prepare your body for labor and support a smoother birthing experience.
If you go to youtube, you can find many how to videos on the topic of labor prep & the miles circuit demonstration!
Final Thoughts: Natural Methods as a Gentle Nudge, Not a Guarantee that it will start your labor
While all the methods listed above may help prepare your body for labor, it’s important to remember that natural methods work best when the body is already on the brink of labor. These methods won’t force labor to begin before your baby is ready, but they can provide gentle support in helping things along. If you are overly - stressed to get your labor to start, it will delay the whole process. Your body is looking for nourishment and safety, as it knows that labor is a marathon. I highly encourage you to apply the art of “letting go” and “leaning in” to allow your baby and your body to align for magic to happen!
As a doula, I encourage my clients to take a holistic approach: staying active, eating nourishing foods, practicing relaxation techniques, and—most importantly—listening to their bodies. If you’re curious about doula support for your journey, I’d love to chat with you.
The goal of my doula practice is to provide compassionate, evidence-based, wholesome support for your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. Every baby and every birth is unique, and I’m here to help you navigate this exciting time with confidence and care.
(Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.)