Natural Ways of Inducing Labour

Abstract

The triggering factor of labour is a mystery. Induction of labour is common in obstetric practice. Over the past several decades the incidence of labour induction has continued to rise. A recent data from WHO global survey on maternal and perinatal health shows that 9.6% of deliveries involve labour induction. Indications for labour induction are postdated pregnancy, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), and medical complications such as diabetes mellitus and pregnancy induced hypertension. This article briefly reviews a variety of natural methods for inducing labour like exercise, nipple stimulation, sex, spicy foods, eating date fruits and pine apple, evening primrose oil, red raspberry tea leaf, acupressure, acupuncture, induction massage, homeopathy, visualization and blowing balloons.