Stimulation of labor: mom is tired of waiting, baby, come quickly! Stimulation of labor at home: how to do it and is it necessary?

Mothers who have already given birth so often talk about stimulating labor, scaring their pregnant friends, that it seems to them that no childbirth can proceed without forcing the process of dilation of the cervix. In fact, childbirth does not have to be “push” very often - according to official statistics, about seven women out of a hundred. How does this happen and why might induction of labor be needed?

The indications for inducing labor are obvious - labor does not begin, although it is long overdue, does not progress once it has begun, or for medical reasons it is necessary for the child to be born ahead of schedule. Stimulation can be natural or artificial.

With natural birth, the expectant mother speeds up the onset of labor with some simple actions. If this happens beyond 40 weeks, doctors most likely will not object. But, of course, you should consult with them first. As for artificial stimulation, it is performed only by doctors and only in a maternity hospital.

Administration of oxytocin

Why is it necessary? Oxytocin is a hormone that is responsible for triggering labor and enhancing the contractile activity of the uterus. Its synthesized analogue is administered to prepare the uterus for dilation if labor does not occur in the case of post-term (more than 42 weeks) pregnancy.

How is it administered? The hormone is administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously by injection.

Advantages and disadvantages. If labor begins, but then labor suddenly stops, oxytocin will start contractions again. But they will be powerful and therefore very painful, so the woman must be given painkillers. There is a possibility of an overdose of the drug, and some women may develop increased sensitivity to it.

When should it not be used? In case of placenta previa, abnormal fetal position, narrow pelvis and other pathologies that complicate natural childbirth. Oxytocin should not be used after a previous cesarean section when there is a scar on the uterus.

Administration of prostaglandins

Why is it necessary? In order to release the baby without injury, the cervix must ripen before birth - become soft, elastic, begin to stretch and open. If the due date has arrived, but the cervix is not yet ready, its maturation is accelerated by prostaglandins - analogues of the hormones responsible for this process.

How is it administered? Gel or suppositories containing prostaglandin are injected deep into the vagina and cervical canal.

Advantages and disadvantages. The advantage is that prostaglandins do not penetrate the amniotic sac and do not affect the baby in any way. In addition, even with the drug administered, the woman is not limited in her movements in any way. But at the same time, prostaglandins can slow down the transition to the active stage of labor. Some women experience intolerance to the drug, resulting in headache or vomiting.

When should it not be used? Like any stimulation of labor, the introduction of prostaglandins should not be used when a woman has endocrine disorders, diabetes mellitus, after a cesarean section, or when vaginal delivery is impossible due to abnormal position, size of the fetus or deteriorating state of its health.

Amniotomy - puncture of the amniotic sac

Why is it necessary? A puncture of the amniotic sac is done when the pregnancy is postterm, when the condition of the placenta worsens and, as a result, there is a high risk of developing hypoxia in the child. An amniotomy can also be performed when a woman quickly develops gestosis - in this state, the rupture of water speeds up the process and alleviates the condition of the woman in labor, simultaneously preventing labor complications that can develop in the case of prolonged labor. Sometimes the indication for amniotomy is the risk of developing Rh conflict.

How do they do it? The operation is completely painless and safe, but, like any other operation, it is performed only by an experienced doctor and only for medical reasons. A special hook is inserted into the vagina, the amniotic sac is grabbed and opened, which causes the amniotic fluid to leak.

Advantages and disadvantages. The rupture of amniotic fluid starts the process and intensifies contractions. But sometimes contractions may not come even after this manipulation, and the water-free period should not last more than 12 hours. So women in labor will sometimes need the same oxytocin to still stimulate labor. In addition, if you do an amniotomy without compelling indications, the process can only be slowed down. The anterior waters, which are located above the baby's head in the amniotic sac, are a wedge that gently opens the cervix from the inside. Normally, water flows out only after the cervix is almost completely dilated and the baby is ready to be born.

When should it not be used? Amniotomy can be performed only after the baby’s head has passed into the pelvis, compressing the amniotic sac and the vessels located on its surface. If the puncture is made earlier, there is a high risk of bleeding and prolapse of the umbilical cord, as well as infection.

Long walks, mopping floors without using a mop, and running up and down stairs are the most common methods for natural labor stimulation among expectant mothers. The most physiological way is walking.

How do they do it? During a long walk, the baby puts pressure on the cervix, which causes it to begin to open. Other active actions also contribute to this. However, the expectant mother should avoid extreme loads; they should be feasible and light.

Advantages and disadvantages. The method only works if the cervix has already begun to prepare for childbirth - to soften and smooth out. In addition, it is difficult for a woman who wants to give birth “as soon as possible” to refrain from overexertion, and washing floors in a half-bent position and conquering skyscrapers without the help of an elevator clearly belongs to them. All such actions can cause premature placental abruption!

When should it not be used? For gestosis and other complications of pregnancy, for indications for cesarean section, for up to 40 weeks of pregnancy, for chronic diseases not related to pregnancy.

Sexual intercourse

Why is it necessary? Semen contains natural hormones, prostaglandins, which soften the cervix, and orgasm promotes its muscle contractions. Massaging the breasts (especially the nipples) increases the level of oxytocin in the blood.

How do they do it? In the old fashioned way and taking into account the interesting position of the mother: a pregnant woman should not feel pain, but be comfortable and pleasant.

Advantages and disadvantages. What if the couple doesn’t want anything at all? Then the spouses will have to give up sex (and the woman will only have to go for a long walk). As for nipple massage, it’s not so simple either: in order for it to work, it needs to be done three times a day for 10-20 minutes. Not everyone is able to withstand such foreplay.

When should it not be used? The most obvious is if one of the partners has an STD. After all, contact protected by a condom may be pleasant, but it is an almost meaningless “stimulant.” If the couple was prescribed complete sexual rest during pregnancy, they should also consult a doctor.

Sometimes women resort to natural (but unconventional) methods of inducing labor such as acupuncture, aromatherapy and homeopathy. We must remember that, like any other medical procedure, stimulation of labor can be beneficial or harmful, especially when it is done unjustifiably and illiterately.

Comment on the article "Induction of labor: 5 methods. Drug administration or sex?"

Discussion

What do you mean by stimulation - oxytocin? it gives continuous contractions, which are not only difficult for the mother, but also for the child, as he experiences constant and excessive compression for which he may not be ready. Natural contractions are always softer and intermittent.
opening the bubble? The cervix does not always open after it; often the entire ECS ends. or it opens, but the tissues are not elastic enough, hence ruptures and/or episiotomy. By the way, in cases of premature birth they almost always do an episiotomy, although the babies are tiny, but the tissues are not ready yet.
It’s better to prepare for childbirth and give birth when the time comes. You can always monitor the condition of the baby, umbilical cord and placenta using additional ultrasounds.
I gave birth at almost 41 weeks, a large baby 4250g, without tears or incisions. I was preparing for childbirth, breathing correctly, pushing correctly, helping my baby, and he helping me. I wish you an easy natural birth too:)

Now half of the children, if not more, have hypoxia without any walking or stimulation. Plus, not every woman will agree to stimulate and for this you need to go to the maternity hospital in advance, and there is not always room there. Everything is individual

Induction of labor without indications.... Medical issues. Pregnancy and childbirth. Induction of labor without indications... Almost a horror story, but knowing is better than not knowing!!!

Discussion

So, Arisha and I were very lucky... We had piercings, and she had hypoxia, and a huge headache...

perhaps that is why in most RDs they are now waiting until the victory and do not stimulate. I was actually surprised when I started reading this conference that so many people were being stimulated. I remember last time, the doctor very clearly told me that now they are trying not to interfere, when there are no more options...

Labor with stimulation. Zamyatnina Tatyana. Stimulation of labor. This is exactly the sex I have with my firstborn >. methods of natural stimulation of labor: 1. walk high, lifting...

What's wrong with stimulation? Medical issues. Pregnancy and childbirth. Stimulation is bad because it completely changes the course of natural childbirth and can cause depression...

Discussion

Why no water?
New water is being produced all the time.
Both my first and second labors began with the rupture of water.
A few hours later in the maternity hospital, an ultrasound showed that there was still a lot of water left :) And the doctors said that EVERYTHING would not spill out.
About stimulation...
In the first birth, labor stopped after stimulation. I remember it like a nightmare: (I was exhausted myself and the child had a bruise on half his head:(
But I can’t say that the doctor was wrong. Who knows how it would have ended without stimulation?
The second time, when I was almost fully dilated and had contractions every minute, they also decided to stimulate me, under the guise of saline solution: (At first, during one contraction, the baby advanced so much that I thought I was going to die: (I tried to run away from the table:) Then the contractions stopped. The baby I gave birth, and then waited for about 40 minutes, and no stimulation helped until the baby was put to the breast.
Still, I wouldn’t interfere with the natural process unless absolutely necessary...

Doctors have instructions - contractions should last this long, the period of pushing should be this long. And this does not depend on what weight the child is born with - 2.5. kg or 4.5., regardless of the mother’s build, one bone takes longer to adjust to the baby’s size, another faster. And this is all individual. One baby can be born in 3 hours, and another in two days. This is inconvenient for doctors. That’s why they put it in advance and prepare it for a specific day. Only you came and went for them, and all the problems remain with you. Apparently, for some reason, a child needs to be born for just that long, and not more and not less. A midwife told me a case where one woman had a period of pushing for 6 hours and the dilatation lasted for almost two days, and the baby was born large and absolutely healthy, well, he needed exactly that much time. Of course, in the maternity hospital they would have cut it right away, no one would have stood around and waited for so long. And yet, the water cannot leak out at all, it constantly flows in and the child does not suffer when the water breaks.

Methods of natural stimulation of labor are used in cases of post-term pregnancy and to prepare the cervix for childbirth. By the approximate date of the onset of labor, the cervix shortens significantly, which causes the pregnant woman pain in the lumbar region and frequent urination. Natural stimulation helps relieve pain and speed up the process if the date of birth does not occur on the date prescribed by the doctor. All natural methods of labor stimulation are absolutely safe for both the child and his mother.

Nipple stimulation

One of the main ways to naturally stimulate labor is nipple massage. It is believed that when massaging and pinching the nipples, the body of a pregnant woman begins to more actively produce the hormone oxytocin, which causes labor pains. Nipples should be stimulated several times a day for 10-15 minutes. When using this method, contractions should begin within three days after the start of stimulation.

Castor oil

Castor oil is primarily known as a natural laxative; this is its main property in stimulating labor. By affecting the intestines, the oil simultaneously stimulates the uterus, accelerating the birth process. To soften the specific taste of the oil, you can add fruit juice or syrup to it. In half the cases of using this method, 100-150 grams of castor oil consumed cause natural contractions immediately after consumption.

Modern traditional medicine does not recommend the use of castor oil, which can cause diarrhea and lead to dehydration.

Walks

Walking at a brisk pace, preferably in the fresh air, also helps to naturally stimulate labor. When the expectant mother takes active walks, the baby's head, under the influence of gravity, begins to put more pressure on the cervix, which stimulates more active production of oxytocin. As a rule, almost all pregnant women take regular walks before giving birth, so the effectiveness of this method is quite difficult to determine. But no expectant mother should give up active walks, because they contribute to the adoption of the “correct” position of the fetus before childbirth.

Oxytocin is a hypothalamic hormone of oligopeptide structure that has a stimulating effect on the smooth muscles of the uterus.

Homeopathy

This method can also be classified as a natural method of stimulating labor, but when using this method you should still consult a homeopathic specialist. The main homeopathic remedies that enhance the activity of labor are caulophyllum and pulsatilla, which are considered absolutely safe for health. The results of surveys of many women who have already given birth indicate that homeopathic medicines helped them solve various problems that arise during pregnancy.

In addition, natural methods of stimulation include: having sex with the obligatory violent orgasm in a pregnant woman, taking a small dose of alcohol, drinking tinctures of some medicinal herbs, inflating balloons, and acupuncture.

Childbirth is a natural process of bringing a child into the world, carefully thought out and planned by nature. However, there are cases when it is impossible to do without medical assistance and labor stimulation is required.

In what cases is labor induction performed?

This procedure is carried out to artificially induce labor and activate labor directly during childbirth. First of all, the indication for stimulation is post-term pregnancy, which entails certain risks, weakness and incoordination of labor. In addition, stimulation is prescribed for polyhydramnios, multiple pregnancies and serious chronic diseases that threaten the health of the mother and child. Depending on the indications and state of labor, various types of stimulation are used.

Detachment of amniotic membranes

This method of stimulation is usually used during postterm pregnancy. This procedure is performed during a routine gynecological examination. It consists of detachment of the amniotic membrane at the os of the uterus, which contributes to the development of contractions. In this case, the woman does not experience pain due to the absence of nerve endings in the membranes.

Use of prostaglandins

These physiologically active substances act on the cervix, promoting its ripening and opening. Prostaglandin preparations are used vaginally in the form of gels and suppositories. As a rule, contractions begin within half an hour after their introduction. But there are situations when labor does not activate. In this case, the drug is re-administered a day later.

Puncture of amniotic sac

This method of stimulating labor is used for protracted labor, when the baby’s head is in the pelvic area. The procedure involves inserting a special instrument in the form of a hook through the cervix, which causes a puncture of the membranes and the release of amniotic fluid. The use of this manipulation is associated with the risk of infection and prolapse of the umbilical cord, which impairs the delivery of oxygen to the fetus.

Use of oxytocin

This drug is a natural hormone that stimulates uterine contractions. It is usually used in cases where there is a fading of labor - a decrease in the intensity of contractions. The drug is used with parallel monitoring of the condition of the fetus and the intensity of contractions.

Tablets to induce labor

In terms of effectiveness, ease of use and number of side effects, this method of stimulating labor is the most preferable. It involves the use of artificially synthesized antigestogens (Mifepristone, Miropriston), which promote cervical ripening and the development of contractions.

If labor does not begin, and the baby is already due to be born, doctors are forced to resort to artificial stimulation using various methods. However, each of these methods has its own indications and contraindications, so asking a doctor to speed up labor for some reason is strictly not recommended.

Types of stimulation

Postterm pregnancy is characterized by oligohydramnios, a decrease in the thickness of the placenta, thickening of the baby’s cranial bones, and so on. The absence of labor on time is fraught with deterioration in the functioning of the placenta, which leads to a significant deterioration in the condition of the fetus. In such cases, induction of labor is prescribed, for which artificial rupture of the membranes or amniotomy is often used, during which the bladder is pierced with a hook-like instrument. This procedure is practically painless (there are no nerve endings in the amniotic sac) and allows you to start the process of delivery due to the discharge of amniotic fluid.

After the amniotomy is completed, labor begins approximately a few hours later.

Labor is also accelerated with the help of a special “prostaglandin” gel, which the obstetrician injects into the cervix of the woman lying on the gynecological chair. This procedure allows labor to begin nine to ten hours after the drug is administered. If labor has begun, but labor is too weak and the cervix is not dilating well, doctors resort to stimulation with droppers of oxytocin or prostaglandins. Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the brain that stimulates smooth muscle and increases uterine contractility. Prostaglandins (hormone-like substances) have similar properties. Four to six hours after inducing labor using one of the above methods, doctors evaluate the benefits of them - if there is no effect, the woman undergoes a caesarean section.

Features of stimulation

Contraindications to accelerating labor are hyperactivity, hypertension, the presence of chronic fetal hypoxia or uterine scar, as well as cardiovascular or other dangerous diseases of the woman in labor. Ideally, a woman should give birth on her own, since childbirth is a natural process that should be accompanied by proper breathing during pushing and contractions. Doctors say that stimulation is most often needed by women who are trying to control the birth of a child with their heads, while complete and instinctive dedication to the process allows the body to do everything as it should.

Expectant mothers are recommended to undergo special training at a school for pregnant women - then speeding up childbirth is unlikely to be necessary.

Also, natural childbirth is desirable for the reason that a child born without stimulation experiences less stress during the passage of the birth canal. In addition, non-interference in labor prevents oxygen deficiency in the baby. The use of drugs for stimulation is also not beneficial - for example, oxytocin most often gives the skin

The maternity bag has been packed for a long time, but you are still “two in one”. You sleep poorly and cannot rest properly. Your belly looks like a balloon, your legs are swollen, and your birthday is marked on the calendar behind you. You have not been afraid of childbirth for a long time, on the contrary, you listen to yourself every minute in the hope of further developments... But be careful, Mother Nature is smarter and she knows what she is doing! After all, the impetus for birth is given not by the mother, but by the child. That's why you need to be patient and not get depressed. In this article we will talk about post-term pregnancy, its characteristics and ways to stimulate it.

What are the dangers of post-term pregnancy?

According to studies, post-term pregnancy lasts from 41 weeks to 41 weeks and 6 days, and 42 weeks or more. With this pregnancy, your baby may have an increased risk of health problems. Thus, the size of the fetus may be significantly larger than average at birth (fetal macrosomia), which may increase the risk of surgical vaginal intervention; it is possible that the baby’s shoulder during childbirth will get stuck behind the pelvic bone, which will entail shoulder dystocia.

Another negative syndrome may be associated with a decrease in fat under the skin, a lack of cheese-like lubrication on the fetus's body, a decrease in the baby's primary hair, and a green coloration of the amniotic fluid, skin and umbilical cord due to meconium - the contents of your baby's intestines. There may also be low amniotic fluid volume, which can affect your baby's heart rate and compress the umbilical cord during contractions.

Post-term pregnancy may also present the following complications during childbirth:

increased vaginal discharge;
more painful contractions with shorter intervals;
infection;
postpartum bleeding, etc.

Indications for induction of labor

Unfortunately, the body is not always capable of naturally stimulating the onset of labor, and it is not always possible to wait for this moment. Sometimes it may happen that the baby must be born as soon as possible in order to save his life. Other indications include:

Pregnancy period is more than 41 weeks - the most common reason for using stimulants. This procedure is performed to reduce the risk of caesarean section.
The appearance of symptoms of any disorders , dangerous to the health and life of the fetus. For example, a decrease in heart rate detected on CTG.
Multiple pregnancy. During multiple pregnancies, when babies simply cannot appear in the usual way, stimulation is also prescribed.
The water breaks and contractions do not start for more than 10-12 hours. Stimulation is carried out taking into account the high risk of infection through the cervix.
Detection of pathological changes in the placenta.
Hormonal or endocrine disorders, in which the production of oxytocin will be small or will be absent .
If the uterus is stretched too much due to the presence of increased amount of amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios).
Chronic and other diseases of the pregnant woman. If the mother has kidney disease, thyroid disease, gestational diabetes, or high blood pressure, then the gynecologist may prescribe stimulation.
Umbilical cord prolapse or placental abruption. Doctors use the stimulation method to avoid complications during and after the birth process.
In some cases, indications for stimulation is the late age of the expectant mother.
Weak labor . In case of slow dilatation of the cervix (by 2-3 cm) during contractions for more than 6 hours in a row, doctors may resort to stimulation.

As for the decision to induce labor, only a doctor can make it and only after a full examination, which will establish that continuing the pregnancy can harm the child or mother.

Contraindications to induction of labor

But, as with any medical intervention, there are contraindications for stimulating labor. Medical stimulation is not performed if:

The size of the woman's pelvis is smaller than the size of the fetus's head. Because there is a possibility that the baby will get stuck in the birth canal.
Presence of scars on the uterus. Induction of labor is not carried out, as this can lead to rupture along the old scar.
Position of the fetus. With a lateral (transverse) presentation, in general, if the fetus is not in a cephalic presentation, stimulation is not performed.
Poor fetal condition and contraindications to stimulation of labor by a pregnant woman. If natural delivery is not possible, a caesarean section is performed.

As a rule, induction of labor is used in exceptional cases, after a balanced medical decision, since any interference in the natural physiological process is undesirable. However, if doctors insist on stimulation, if you have no contraindications to it, you should still trust your doctor or resort to safe, natural methods of stimulating labor.

Methods of artificial stimulation of labor

It should be noted that methods of artificial stimulation of labor are conventionally divided into medicinal and non-medicinal. How do drugs that induce labor work?

To prepare the uterus for opening, analogues of natural hormones are used, which trigger labor and enhance the contractile activity of the uterus. When using the medicinal method of inducing labor, the pregnant woman is administered the hormones oxytocin or prostaglandins.

Oxytocin is a synthesized analogue of a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. Oxytocin is administered mainly through intramuscular or subcutaneous injections.

Oxytocin causes non-physiological contractions, during which severe labor pain occurs, so it is used in combination with painkillers. Contraindications for the use of oxytocin include abnormal placenta previa, non-cephalic position of the fetus, a scar on the uterus after surgery in previous pregnancies, or the inability to give birth to a child through the natural birth canal (large fetus, narrow pelvis of a pregnant woman, etc.)

Prostaglandins Unlike oxytocin, they cause more tolerable contractions. Another advantage is that the drug does not penetrate the amniotic sac and does not restrict the woman’s movement during childbirth. Preparations based on prostaglandins help the cervix ripen - it softens, and the elasticity of its muscle structures increases. In order for the drug to start working, gynecologists inject prostaglandins in the form of a special gel or suppositories deep into the vagina and cervical canal. Disadvantages of using prostaglandins include: slowing down the active stage of labor, vomiting and headaches.

TO non-medicinal methods, Medical methods of inducing labor include: amniotomy and dilation of the cervical canal.

Amniotomy - this is a puncture of the amniotic sac, which is done during post-term pregnancy, when the condition of the placenta worsens and, as a result, there is a high risk of developing hypoxia in the child. How does this happen? A special hook is inserted into the vagina, which captures the amniotic sac and opens it, which causes the discharge of amniotic fluid. This method is safe for a child and painless for a pregnant woman. This procedure should only be performed by an experienced obstetrician and only when indicated.

Expansion of the cervical canal. In this case, a catheter with a balloon filled with water is used, which is inserted through the cervix into the uterus. The irritated uterus pushes the balloon through the cervix, thereby making the opening from 2 cm to 4 cm.

Another way to expand the cervix is to use P cherry from kelp.

The sticks are inserted into the cervical canal, one end of the rod should reach the cervical cavity, and the other should be controlled by a doctor, protruding into the vaginal cavity. The rods thicken significantly due to the absorption of vaginal and cervical secretions, expanding the cervical canal, preparing the cervix for the upcoming birth.

Natural ways to induce labor

Nipple massage

One of the most effective ways to stimulate labor is nipple massage. A pregnant woman can massage her nipples with her thumb and forefinger for several minutes every day. At the same time, the body produces oxytocin, a natural hormone that causes the uterus to contract. Massage can be prescribed to pregnant women from the 39th week of pregnancy. Massage can help increase the strength of contractions already during labor.

Sexual contact

Having sex shortly before birth is one of the common tips on how to induce labor. This advice makes sense, since male sperm contains prostaglandins, but their content is relatively small. Prostaglandins have a very beneficial effect on the ripening of the cervix, softening it and changing its condition. Therefore, gynecologists often recommend making love from the 38th week of pregnancy up to 2 times a day, which is undoubtedly very welcomed by future dads. You just need a more comfortable and secure position. At the same time, unprotected contact can be dangerous in some cases. Before engaging in sexual activity with a partner, consult your doctor, as sex has its pros and cons when inducing labor. An example is a disease of the genital organs of spouses.

Physical exercise

In order to give birth sooner, a pregnant woman can work in the same, pre-pregnancy mode: wash the floors, wipe the dust, iron the linen (provided that you feel well and the doctor does not advise physical rest!) This method of stimulation will come in handy, because Many mothers experience the so-called “nesting period.” However, be careful with certain types of work, such as washing windows and hanging curtains: you may lose your balance and fall! Don't lift heavy loads - just measure the level of physical activity that suits your condition. Exercise to induce labor is recommended after 38 weeks of pregnancy.

Use spices

Make yourself some spicy tea. It is usually consumed within two days to induce labor. You will need one small ginger, 12 cloves, 1 piece of cinnamon. The ingredients are mixed with a liter of boiled water and allowed to brew for 30 minutes, then the drink is poured into a thermos. You can drink tea in sips all day long.

Massage of the lower abdomen

It is recommended to increase blood circulation in the muscles of the uterus, in order to pass the baby’s head during childbirth and is a partial prevention of rupture (however, this will not always be a 100% guarantee). Some experts claim that massage can help deliver a baby during the peak stages of pregnancy. Massage oil can be made from olive oil. Other massage oils you can use include lavender, mustard sage, and rose essential oils. Such oils act as an antiseptic and prevent any possible infection. You can also use a special gel during massage to stimulate labor.

Alternative methods of inducing labor

Dancing and music

Dance for pregnant women is highly recommended for many reasons. Perform it daily, preferably without restrictive clothing, with a scarf around your hips. Dance alone in your room to any tune that is pleasant to you and your child for at least 30-40 minutes. The music should not be rough and harsh; you should try to avoid sudden movements and jumps.

Craniosacral therapy improves the circulation of blood vessels in the brain, relieves headaches, restores the mobility of the pelvic bones, sacrum and spinal joints, reduces tension in the brain membranes, normalizes nerve function, etc. This therapeutic method is ideal for pregnant women. This method can and should be used when the birth of a child begins to be delayed.

Craniosacral therapy is often a means of transporting the energy that initiates the birth process. After using craniosacral therapy, a quick natural birth often occurs.

Homeopathy

If you know a good homeopath, it is worth contacting him, because homeopathy can prepare a woman for childbirth and overcome the difficulties of the natural birth process. But you shouldn’t turn to the first homeopath you come across, whom you don’t know.

Walking

During a long walk, the baby puts pressure on the cervix, which causes it to begin to open. This method only works if the cervix has already begun to efface in anticipation of labor.

Acupuncture (acupuncture)

We don't know much about acupuncture, but this effective method of traditional Chinese medicine is suitable for post-term pregnancy and is often recommended by specialists. Acupuncture should always be performed by a specialist, such as a traditional Chinese medicine center. If the baby is ready to be born, labor will begin within 24 hours.

Medicinal herbs that cause contractions

The power of nature has been known for centuries, and our grandmothers knew about the benefits of herbs. Instead of pharmaceuticals, they used the gifts of nature to induce labor. In general, herbal remedies are well tolerated and in many cases are used both as teas and in massage oils. What is their purpose? The herbs trigger and support contraction of the smooth muscles of the uterus. The use of such herbs is allowed from the 37-38th week of pregnancy. Using the natural ingredients listed below, you can stimulate labor at home. So, after consulting with your doctor, you can try:

sage tincture: to naturally stimulate labor, you can use sage tincture. The dose is 10 drops per glass of water. Take one sip in the morning, drink the drink for 3 days. If the baby is ready to be born, labor is just around the corner. If necessary, you can repeat the dose again after three days. During childbirth, sage tincture helps the efficiency of contractions.
flax-seed. From the 35th week of pregnancy, you can also consume flaxseed, two tablespoons per day. The seed can either be consumed dry or left in water overnight to soften it. If you don't like the taste of flaxseed, you can add it to soup, bread, yogurt, etc.

Important!

What are the dangers of inducing labor for mother and baby?

Studies assessing the possible consequences of induction of labor usually do not include: the impact on a woman’s mental health, her perception of childbirth, the impact on the baby’s psyche and on breastfeeding. After active stimulation of labor, delayed onset of lactation and other negative effects may occur.

Excessive uterine tension also reduces the mother's confidence in maternal competence or separates mother and baby if complications arise during labor.

Some experts even point to an increased adverse risk to the baby's future health if the baby's labor is induced. There is a risk of complications such as uterine hyperactivity, uterine rupture, stress and fetal hypoglycemia with further interventions during labor. If the uterus is overactive, drugs containing beta mimetics can be used to suppress it.

Artificial induction of labor: is it really necessary?

As mentioned above, it is better to use stimulation in extreme cases, when this process does not occur physiologically normally, and the absence of labor can become dangerous to the health of the mother or the life of the fetus. However, there are cases when labor is stimulated in vain:

Thus, quite often, labor is induced prematurely with a poorly calculated date of birth. The most accurate method is to measure the fetus by ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy; later this measurement can be subject to significant error.
It is not advisable to try to induce labor in the afternoon and evening, when the woman is tired and drowsy.
A woman in labor should not be prohibited from eating and drinking.
If a woman has an irregular menstrual cycle, there is no reason to induce labor before the 42nd week of pregnancy (including women with diabetes). Before 42 weeks, diabetics are advised to give birth only if diabetes clearly manifests itself, for example, there is clearly poor placental function.
Also, many premature births are caused by the woman using the wrong method of inducing labor.
Larger fetal size should not be a signal to induce labor, but in some cases, induction of labor can reduce the risk of clavicle fractures in infants.

As a result of stimulation, there is a high level of stress in both the fetus and the mother, an unpleasant birth experience, and the likelihood of termination of pregnancy by cesarean section increases.

Every expectant mother expects her baby to be born at exactly the appointed time. Carefully preparing for this day. Perhaps he even chooses a name according to the church calendar. But then the cherished day comes, and... Nothing?

After 40 weeks doctors insistently suggest that mommy go to the hospital for artificial stimulation of labor. The word itself is not very pleasant, and the procedures carried out in the hospital are even more so. They put kelp, they introduce a special gel, give hormonal pills... Women who experienced this in their first pregnancy, as a rule, stay at home the second time until contractions. But those who give birth for the first time can easily afford it.

Main principle waiting at home - confidence in the child’s safety. To do this, it is enough to go through 1-2 times a week CTG (cardiotocogram) fetus. She will show if the baby has oxygen starvation whether he is getting enough nutrients. You can undergo an additional ultrasound to see degree of maturity of the placenta, state of amniotic fluid. In addition, it is worth asking about the birth history of your relatives (mother, grandmothers, sisters, aunts). They may also have given birth after 40 weeks - then you have genetic predisposition to post-term pregnancy, and there is no need to worry too much. And if everything is fine, you can wait for hospitalization for now. And get busy natural stimulation of labor.

Principle two– do things that were not allowed during pregnancy (or in recent months). Not all of course, but a lot. The most effective thing is to renew intimate life with husband.Male sperm contains prostaglandin, the same hormone on which the stimulating gel used in maternity hospitals is created. It will soften the cervix and gently prepare it for childbirth. Kissing and gentle stroking of the breasts during sex help produce another hormone, oxytocin, which causes contractions of the uterus and is also antidepressant. Additionally, having sex simply helps increase blood flow in the lower abdomen, which in turn tones the uterus and will help induce contractions.

Physical exercise at this time are also very useful. This does not mean, of course, that you can lift weights in the gym or jump until you’re blue in the face in aerobics. Here's the classic one charger or simple Eastern dance- that's it. Personally, during second pregnancy I just carried my eldest son in my arms more often. And the most effective method is considered to be the method of our grandmothers called “ mopping floors» . You can use a mop, but it’s better to use your hands. Very effective. Climbing stairs up and down is also a very useful stimulating exercise. And in general it costs more often hike-and will help to bring the due date closer and maintain physical fitness.

Various warming procedures are also effective, also aimed at increasing blood circulation: pepper patch on the lower back, iodine mesh on the lower back, very warm(almost hot) or cold and hot shower or bathhouse.

Lovers folk remedies I recommend drinking a tablespoon castor oil. Castor oil, which has relaxing properties, will help the cervix open faster. Thanks to it, you will also cleanse your intestines and be able to avoid a not very pleasant hospital procedure. But this rather refers to emergency measures. In general, you can start a kind of stimulation in advance by slightly adjusting your diet: if you include more fiber-rich foods in your diet (cabbage, beets, fresh vegetable salads), due to increased intestinal motility, the uterus will also shrink. Salads are best seasoned with vegetable oil.

In order to speed up the process of cervical ripening, from 34 weeks of pregnancy you can start taking evening primrose oil, which is sold in capsules in almost any pharmacy – 1 capsule per day. It is rich in fatty acids and promotes the production of prostaglandins. You can start taking the oil later: from 36 weeks - two capsules and three - from the 39th. Raspberry leaves are also considered an excellent remedy for approaching labor. It is recommended to brew them and drink 2-3 glasses a day, starting from 34-36 weeks of pregnancy. Raspberries soften the ligaments around the birth canal, which promotes uterine contractions and also reduces the risk of ruptures during childbirth. Just make sure that before taking any herbal remedies and oils you should: consult a doctor who is seeing you in a consultation or medical center; Find out about possible side effects, and then choose the method that’s right for you.

Psychologists give their advice for expectant mothers: be sure to talk to your baby, talk about how everyone loves and waits for him, stroke his belly, make the baby want to meet his mother as soon as possible. Rest assured that everything will be fine.

And the most important thing! Not a single woman has ever remained pregnant forever. If you and your baby are feeling well, don’t rush! Everything has its time. The baby himself determines the day and hour of his birth.

It’s already 40 weeks, the 41st has begun, and the baby doesn’t even think that it’s time for him to be born. About 10% of women deal with this problem. Passively waiting for contractions is not always the best solution; sometimes you can help yourself and provoke the onset of labor. There are different methods of stimulation: both artificial and medicinal (such methods are used in extreme cases, already in the maternity hospital). If no pathologies are detected in the expectant mother, and the doctor approves of this, then labor can be induced at home using safe methods.

The point is to provoke the onset of labor with the help of physical activity and other provoking factors. Such actions are resorted to when the expectant mother is already significantly past term for the baby.

Before you start doing anything to speed up labor, you should think about whether stimulation is really necessary in this situation. After all, the expected date of birth is just that, it is assumed; it does not carry any accuracy. This is a kind of guideline for doctors and young mothers.

It is impossible to draw conclusions that the pregnancy is post-term based only on the date of expected birth. You can think about stimulation only after 40 obstetric weeks of pregnancy.

If, however, post-term pregnancy is confirmed, you need to make sure that actions to stimulate the birth process will not harm either the mother or the baby.

First, you need to make sure that the condition of the woman and child is normal. It is advisable to regularly undergo CTG after the 38th week, which allows you to determine the condition of the child according to the rhythm of his heartbeat.

It is also additionally worthwhile to undergo an ultrasound examination, which shows not only the general condition of the fetus, but also the degree of maturation of the placenta and the condition of the uterine muscles. Based on the results of these studies, we can draw conclusions about the advisability of inducing labor at home or in a hospital.

Is it advisable to induce labor?

Is labor stimulation necessary at all? Is it worth interfering with the natural development of the situation? The key point here is that the course of pregnancy should be normal, without any abnormalities or pathologies. It is very important to consult your doctor before deciding to undergo stimulation.

Inducing labor at home

If, after all, the doctor approved of the mother’s desire to speed up the process somewhat, the results of tests and medical examinations are normal, what to do? How to help your baby be born faster?

Stimulation of labor at home is as follows:

Walking, step up the stairs. The best method, and perhaps the safest, would be walking during the day and evening. You can also replace elevator rides with climbing stairs on your own. When a woman is in an upright position, the fetus descends faster. However, physical activity should not be abused if the due date has not yet approached. This can cause uterine tone.
Rubbing the nipples. With active stimulation of the nipples, the body produces a hormone such as oxytocin, which is responsible for uterine contractions and contractions. During the massage, the entire palm should be used, it should be placed on top of the chest and make rotational movements. After 15 minutes, move to the other breast and repeat. The procedure must be continued for at least an hour, otherwise there will be no result. It is advisable to do this massage three times a day. You can also wrap your hand in a terry towel.
Intimacy. This method is perhaps the most reliable, especially if the woman experiences orgasm, which causes uterine contractions. But even without this, during sex, the expectant mother’s body produces oxytocin, which was mentioned above. And male sperm contains a large amount of prostaglandins - substances that soften the cervix and prepare it for opening.
Eating spicy food. Spicy foods stimulate the intestines, as a result of which the walls of the uterus contract, however, you should be extremely careful with this method. As a rule, towards the end of the term, a young mother begins to experience severe heartburn from almost everything she eats, and from spicy food the amount of burning bile in the esophagus will increase significantly. It is worth noting that such methods should be approached with extreme caution and after prior consultation with a doctor.

There are folk remedies for inducing labor:

Raspberry leaves. Our great-grandmothers induced labor by taking a decoction of raspberry leaves. This drink prepares the walls of the uterus and speeds up the onset of the process. It is believed that if you drink such a decoction during contractions, the second stage of labor will pass much faster than usual. Therefore, if a young mother has any structural features of the pelvis or has health problems, it is better not to use this method, since due to the speed of the process, doctors will not have time to take the necessary measures.
Pineapple pulp. This exotic fruit is rich in bromelain, a substance that, like prostaglandin, helps soften the cervix and prepares it for dilatation.

There are other ways to stimulate labor:

Homeopathic medicines. Experts in this field generally recommend two remedies: Pulsatilla and Caulophyllum. They can only be used on the recommendation of a doctor, since they affect each body differently.
Laminaria. You can speed up labor by following a special diet - eating more foods rich in fiber. The leadership in this list is given to seaweed (kelp). The product contains a huge amount of iodine, vitamins and nutrients. To achieve a relaxing effect, just eat a small amount of seaweed. This will have a stimulating effect on the uterus.
Drinks containing alcohol. There is an opinion that taking a small dose of high-quality alcohol has a relaxing effect on the body of a pregnant woman and speeds up the natural birth process. For example, if an expectant mother drinks a few sips of good red wine, it will not harm either her or the baby, but will help provoke contractions. However, this method of inducing labor is quite controversial and should not be used without first consulting a doctor.

What is absolutely forbidden to do?

Never and under no circumstances should you try to induce labor on your own using any of the popular medicinal methods:

tablets;
injections;
candles;
droppers;
acupuncture.

If you incorrectly calculate the dose or perform the procedure itself, tragedy can occur. There is no need to lift weights and overload your body. This will provoke labor, but may have a negative impact on the baby. If the baby is in no hurry to be born, but according to the examination results everything is fine, then you need not to worry and just give the baby a little time.