Self-Help Tips to Start Labor

Self-Help Tips for Starting Labor

Most people go into labor on their own sometime between 37 and 42 weeks. Close to 50% of people will go past their due date, and this can be normal.  

These tips may help your body get ready. They do not work for everyone. Some people may still need an induction of labor.  You can try these tips if your care team says it’s safe for you.

Do not try to start labor if you have:

• Less than 37 weeks pregnancy
• Bleeding
• Less baby movement than usual
• Strong belly pain that you feel all the time
• A fever
• High blood pressure or preeclampsia concerns
• Placenta problems (like placenta previa)
• A reason your care team told you not to have sex or not to go into labor yet

Tips with the best evidence

1) Nipple stimulation

Nipple stimulation can raise natural hormones that help contractions start. It can also help you collect colostrum (first milk) that you can give to baby if needed.  

How to try it (gentle and safe):

• 5-10 minutes two times a day
• You can use your hand or a breast pump.
• Read more and watch videos on how to correctly do nipple stimulation

2) Acupuncture

Some studies show acupuncture may help some people go into labor or get ready for labor.

If you choose this:

• Go to a licensed acupuncture provider.
• Choose someone with pregnancy experience.
• Tell them how far along you are and any health issues.
• The Boston Acupuncture Project provides low cost services.

3) Membrane sweep (done by a clinician)

A membrane sweep is when a clinician uses a gloved finger during a cervical exam to gently separate the “bag of waters” from the cervix.

What to know:

• It can help some people start labor sooner and may lower the chance of needing an induction later.
• You may have cramps or spotting after.
• It must be done in the clinic by your care provider.
• Ask: “Is a membrane sweep an option for me at my next visit?”

Other tips that may help

These tips may help and won’t hurt.  

Miles Circuit (positions and movement)

These are exercises people use to help baby settle into a good position.

Good to know:

• It uses movement, hands-and-knees positions, and side-lying rest.
• Learn more about the Miles circuit and other safe exercises with our Early Labor Toolkit

Eating dates

Some studies suggest eating 2-4 dates a day in late pregnancy may help the cervix soften and may shorten labor.

Good to know:

• Dates have a lot of natural sugar.
• If you have diabetes or gestational diabetes, ask your care team first.

Sex

Sex may help because:

• Semen has natural substances that can soften the cervix.
• Orgasms can cause uterine contraction.

Do not have sex if: your water broke, you are bleeding, or have placenta previa.  

Everyday things that can help your body get ready

Rest: Being tired can make early labor harder.

Drink water and eat: Labor takes energy.

Gentle movement: Walking or stretching may help you feel better.

Warm shower or bath: Can help you relax.

When to contact your care team right away

Call 617-414-2000 now if you have:

• Bleeding
• Your water breaks or you think it might be leaking
• Baby moving less than usual
• Contractions every 5 minutes for 1-2 hours  
• Bad headache, vision changes, or right-side belly pain
• Fever, severe pain, or you feel something is not right