Resources

There are many potential labor induction methods out there, but these are the ones I feel safest and most confident recommending after 38 weeks. Although no method is guaranteed, one might work for you:

• Sex/Orgasm - semen helps ripen the cervix, orgasm may induce uterine contractions by releasing oxytocin, and exercise places pressure down on the cervix that may trigger labor-inducing hormone release

• Miles Circuits http://www.milescircuit.com/the-circuit.html - may help baby reposition into a more optimal position, allowing them to settle lower into the pelvis, put more pressure on the cervix, and induce labor contractions

• Nipple Stimulation - triggers hormones that induce labor contractions

• Exercise - activity helps keep your joints, muscles and ligaments mobile, and encourages baby further down into the pelvis to place pressure on the cervix that may trigger labor-inducing hormone release

• Peppermint Essential Oil - may induce uterine contractions

• Red Raspberry Leaf Tea - may help ripen cervix and induce labor contractions

Note: Herbal supplements are not FDA regulated. Clear with your obstetric provider before ingesting as herbs may interact negatively with other supplements and medications.

If your baby is breech, first and foremost don't panic! Babies can flip positions even after onset of labor, and there are many things you can work on to help create more space for baby to reposition:

• Spinning Babies https://www.spinningbabies.com/pregnancy-birth/baby-position/breech/ - an amazing resource for exercises, positions and techniques that are highly regarded in the birth community

• Chiropractic Care - The Webster Technique can be utilized to facilitate optimal pelvic and uterine alignment. It is gentle and safe during pregnancy, but find a provider that regularly cares for pregnant clients!

• General relaxation, flexibility and mobility - yoga, meditation, breath work, and stretching will all help your body release various tensions that can affect baby's positioning. 

• And of course, Pelvic Physical Therapy - addresses your specific muscle, ligament and joint asymmetries (differences from side to side) that can discourage baby from settling into an optimal position. We can also educate you on how to move and position your body throughout your daily activities to maintain good alignment and encourage baby into that ideal head down position!

• Peri Bottle - a bathroom must have to clean without wiping! It can also help dilute the urine while you pee so that any cuts/tears don't get irritated. You will likely be provided one in a hospital or birth center, but may want to invest in one or more to have in different bathrooms of your house or with a better nozzle.

• Sitz bath - a toilet attachment that you sit on to briefly soak the opening of the vagina in an Epsom salt and/or herbal solution to help with swelling, wound healing and pain.

• Padsicles - basically cold packs for your perineum. Can be store bought or homemade, one time use or reusable, sometimes with soothing herbs or numbing solutions to further help with pain and swelling.

• Postpartum pads - disposable or reusable (can be machine or hand washed) pads that help manage your postpartum vaginal discharge (lochia). Whether you have a vaginal delivery or c-section, you will have lochia for up to 6-8 weeks postpartum.

Find my favorite reusable brand here

Important Note: tampons and menstrual cups/discs are not safe for use postpartum

• Abdominal binder - not always necessary, but can be very helpful especially after a c-section. Soft binders can be used for a short period of time after birth to support your weak abdominal muscles while they recover. Avoid stiff/rigid binders and those with clasps (corset-style) as they are not comfortable and many brands typically exaggerate their benefits (weight loss, form-shaping, strengthening, etc)

• C-section scar silicone cream or strips - silicone treatment may help reduce the appearance of scars and improve their mobility as they heal. Silicone treatments can typically be used 2-4 weeks after surgery (once the wound has fully closed and healed), but check with your obstetric provider before starting use.

Note: some may note skin irritation with use. In these cases, the cream or strip may need to be worn for shorter periods of time, or you may need to stop use.

• Witch Hazel - an anti-inflammatory herb that can help with swelling and skin irritation around hemorrhoids and vaginal cuts and tears. Witch hazel is often used on pads rather than placing directly on skin for ease of use.

• Perineal numbing and/or cooling sprays - such as Dermoplast, Lansinoh 4% Lidocaine Spray, or a more natural Earth Mama Perineal Spray. These products contain varying amounts of lidocaine, menthol and/or essential oils to help with pain and swelling. They can be sprayed directly on your skin around the vaginal opening and anus.

Note: some may experience itching/burning with certain ingredients due to an allergic reaction or skin sensitivity