Some women will use various natural therapies to ripen their cervix, start labour and / or support their mind and body in readiness to commence their labour. Most natural therapies do not provide a 'quick result', but they often take hours (or days) to fine-tune the body for labour. For women who have a serious medical condition and require induction, there may not be enough time to implement most natural therapy methods. There may also be medical reasons why they would not be recommended (so check with your caregiver). You can read more in
about natural therapies.
The following information on natural therapies for induction is a guide only. Before using them, you should check with your caregiver (and / or practitioner) to see if they are appropriate for your individual situation. For more in depth information on some of the more popular natural therapies sometimes used for induction, you can click on the headings below.
Acupressure
Acupuncture
Aromatherapy
Bowel stimulation
Evening Primrose Oil
Herbs
Homeopathy
Nipple stimulation
Massage
Relaxation
Sex and orgasm
Visualisation
Updated November 2008