things I'm trying...
Here are some good ideas for induction - they are fairly serious undertakings, and should be thoroughly researched and discussed with your care provider. My midwife has been very supportive of my use of these methods, because I was overdue with my first pregnancy (my son was 11 lbs 3oz and after 20+ hours of natural labor, it ended in c-section - something I don't want to repeat). I'm trying for a VBAC, so we cannot induce (risk of uterine rupture). So I'm doing everything I can.
Serious Inducers:
Castor Oil: drink 3-4 tablespoons in a small glass of orange juice 2-3 times in one day. This is meant to clear your bowels, and stimulate regular contractions in the process. Not for the faint of heart, we all know.
Blue Cohosh/Black Cohosh: NOT to be used in early pregnancy, as they are amenagogs (might have mispelled - but it just means they can bring on a period and/or cause the loss of a pregnancy/abortion). In late pregnancy, they are used as natural inducers. These are herbal supplements that are more potent than EPO (see below) or tea. They are not meant to be taken before you are at least 37 weeks (full term). The Black Cohosh is meant to ripen the cervix, and the Blue Cohosh can start regular contractions. They work best when used together. This book has a lot of great information, "Wise Woman Herbal Childbearing Year".
http://www.amazon.com/Wise-Woman-Her.../dp/0961462000
Sex: Like everyone has said - sex, sex, sex! Semen has prostaglandins which help ripen the cervix. Your orgasm is very important - the uterus contracts during the orgasm and this can bring on regular contractions.
Acupuncture: There are methods used by certified acupuncturists that have been shown to be effective. Ask around to get a referral for a good acupuncturist in your area. This site might help you:
http://www.acufinder.com/
Preparatory:
Evening Primrose Oil: These come in capsules that you can get at most good drugstores (I got mine at my local health food store, but I've heard some people have even found them at Walmart). These can be used in two different ways. My midwife recommended inserting 1 gram (2-3 pills) in the vagina before bed. You can also take them orally like regular supplements (although insertion is more productive according to my midwife). The EPO pills have prostaglandins that aid in ripening the cervix.
Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: Helps the uterus during labor. Not sure how, but a lot of people drink it late in pregnancy! Not a big "induction" tool, but said to help during labor.
I'm also taking time each day to talk to the baby and "invite" her to come out and join us. I'll try anything.
Good luck everybody!
Mona
DS - 22 1/2 months
DD - EDD 10/11
