Nipple stimulation to induce labor is a natural induction technique often recommended to stimulate uterine contractions during the labor process. Most mothers may look for natural ways to induce labor after crossing the expected due date and may consider nipple stimulation as an option. Stimulating the nipples releases oxytocin hormone that also aids in uterine contractions. However, there is no accurate way to measure the effectiveness of this technique. Read on to know more about the safety and effectiveness of nipple stimulation to induce labor.
Is It Safe To Induce Labor At Home?
It is safe to induce labor at home as long as you don’t try it until you are due. Since the effectiveness of these techniques is known only through anecdotal evidence, check with your doctor before trying it. The results also depend on your medical history. In general, natural induction at home is not suggested in any pregnancy as some risk factors do not become apparent till labor actually starts. (1).
Can Nipple Stimulation Bring On Labor?
Nipple stimulation may help induce labor provided there have been no complications during the pregnancy. Oxytocin plays a crucial role in initiating labor by triggering uterine contractions. Stimulation of the nipples releases this hormone and promotes contractions to aid the baby’s movement down the birth canal (2). Here is some evidence that shows nipple stimulation works, but only in low-risk pregnancies. Nipple stimulation might be acceptable for low risk pregnancies, as there is a lack of scientific research of its effectiveness in high-risk pregnancies.
How Does Nipple Stimulation Work?
Nipple stimulation mimics breastfeeding and causes the sensory cells of the nipples to stimulate the brain to release oxytocin. Rolling or rubbing the nipples releases oxytocin that initiates labor by causing uterine contractions (6).
How To Perform Nipple Stimulation?
Note that nipple stimulation is safe only for normal, full-term and low-risk pregnancies. Also, it should be performed only if your obstetrician considers it safe for you (7). If your nipples become sore or tender, apply coconut oil, breast milk or natural butter to ease the discomfort.
What Are The Other Techniques For Inducing Labor?
Many other natural methods help induce labor. They can also be tried along with nipple stimulation, provided you are near full-term and your doctor approves of them (8). Most of these are folklore and not supported by scientific studies. So it is always best to check with your doctor before trying any of them.
When Should You See A Doctor?
In the initial stages of labor, the contractions are dull with a little discomfort. When you try any of the above methods, observe the contractions and try to time them. Ideally, the contractions should last about 40 to 60 seconds and repeat two to three times in ten minutes (13). If you feel the contractions are stronger and lasting longer or feel the baby dropping lower into the pelvic region, or the mucus plug is loosening, consult your doctor.
