Midwife is Aoife Manning says that while many of these methods are regarded as highly effective when bringing on labour among mothers.
Speaking to the MailOnline she said: ‘None of these are proven but may help. Baby will come when baby is ready essentially.’
Here she sorts the truth behind the old wives’ tales and provides her best tips for encouraging labour.
Raspberry leaf tea
Is an ancient herb thought to tone the muscles of the uterus for more effective contractions. Does not start labour. Not advised before 34 weeks of pregnancy and should speak with the health professional before commencing as there can be some contraindications.
Cod liver oil with OJ
The oil can cause a laxative effect in the bowel causing cramping which is thought to possibly start contractions of the womb. Oj simply for taste.
Kerb walking
The idea of this is to have the pelvis opened as much as possible to encourage baby to decend, putting pressure on the cervix which is thought to release progesterone one of the hormones responsibility in the onset of labour.
Long walks
Help encourage baby downward, putting more pressure on the cervix (as above-kerb walking) can help encourage baby into an optimal position.
Acupuncture
There are specific points on the foot that link the uterus and the pituitary gland which, if stimulated, are thought to release oxytocin in preparation for labour. Works accumulatively.
Clary sage
Has been used for centuries by women for hormonal problems. It’s thought to help with the onset of labour, encourage regular, effective contractions. Not to be used before 37 weeks and to consult midwife/doctor before use.
Walking up and down stairs side ways
The idea of this is to have the pelvis opened as much as possible to encourage baby to decend, putting pressure on the cervix which is thought to release progesterone one of the hormones responsibility in the onset of labour.
Lucozade
Not sure this helps with the onset of labour but can certainly help during labour to replace electrolytes lost through the work the body is doing. Better to have sports (still) version.
Best ways to encourage labour
Regular exercise
Regular exercise during pregnancy is good to build stamina and encourage baby into optimum position which may help labour to start naturally.
An orgasm
Probably the best one! The intimacy of intercourse and orgasm itself are thought to release oxytocin which we know is the hormone responsible for the onset of labour.
The semen is thought to contain the progesterone which is needed to help soften the cervix which needs to happen in early labour.
Nipple stimulation
Releases oxytocin which is necessary for onset of labour and regular contractions
Aoife Manning is a midwife and KG Hypnobirthing teacher based in London thecalmbirthcollective(dot)com