How You Can Induce Labour Through Exercise

You have made it. You are officially 38 weeks pregnant and considered ‘full term’ – basically this baby could actually come any day now. Typically first time moms naturally go in to labour after 41.5 weeks but if you are having a healthy and non-complicated pregnancy there is no harm in assisting the process through some simple exercises.

Since labour is natural to the body, think of labour inducing exercises that are natural. Bench-pressing a barbell is NOT a natural movement of your body and not recommended to be done by a pregnant woman about to go into labour.

Before you begin these exercises it is important to remember that your body will only go into labor if you and your baby are good and ready. There are several exercises that are very natural to the body and can benefit every phase of pregnancy. Ensure your doctor approves the following exercises before commencing.

Walking

Walking is one of the most natural forms of exercise you can do. It is a great way to stay fit during your pregnancy and can also help induce labour when the time is right. Stair climbing can also help encourage your baby to get in the right position to emerge into the world.

Squats

Squatting is the best, and probably a foolproof way to get your labour started. Why? Well, because squatting helps the gravity act on your baby and tends to push it downwards, thereby inducing labour naturally. Squatting is traditionally the natural way to give child birth and is especially helpful if the baby is not dropping, however it is critical only to use squatting if the baby is already head down to reduce the possibility of a breech birth (feet out first).

Kegal Exercises

Kegal exercises, also known as pelvic floor exercises, are not just limited to those affected by urinary incontinence, they may be wonderfully effective in inducing labour among women who are overdue. Kegal exercises work by targeting the muscles of the pelvic floor, which play an important role in childbirth. Releasing and contracting the pelvic muscles for around 10-15 minutes a day is a good way to get the pelvic muscles ready for delivery.

Sex

Why not end pregnancy the exact same way you started it with this super fun and intimate workout for you and your partner to share.  Semen contains cervix-softening fats called prostaglandins (also used in medical induction) and a woman’s orgasm can lead to strong uterine contractions. Plus after your little one arrives, it might be a while before you’re ready for this type of a workout again.