Verified by: Midwife Maria Midstam 

In the final stages of pregnancy, it can feel like time is moving at a snail's pace and the desire to have a baby is immense. So it's perhaps not surprising that there is a plethora of housewife's tricks to kick-start labour (although all of them lack scientific evidence). But what's the harm in trying? Here are eight housewife tips to try in order to induce labor!

How to induce labour

1. Raspberry leaf tea

Raspberry leaf tea is said to reduce stress levels and relax the uterus in preparation for childbirth. It is also said to relieve nausea, make labor pains more intense when they start, and relieve postpartum pains.

2. Walks

Walking should help the uterus to start contracting and thus start the contractions. However, the uterine appendage needs to be mature for it to be effective!

3. Climbing stairs

Like walking, climbing stairs can help your uterus contract as a result of getting your body and breathing moving. However, be careful about walking on stairs if you are in labour!

4. Sexual intercourse

There are theories that sexual intercourse at the end of pregnancy can help trigger labor pains. The theory is based on two things, the first of which is that during sex, and especially when the woman has an orgasm, oxytocin is released in the body, which can increase contractions and help relaxation. The second is that the substance prostaglandin found in sperm can help to soften the uterine lining.

5. Stimulate the nipples

Stimulating the nipples releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps the uterus to contract, which in turn can stimulate contractions. It may be worth trying in conjunction with the road trip or while resting for maximum effect!

6. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is widely used in Chinese medicine and involves placing thin needles at specific points on the body. By placing needles on the points that are said to stimulate the uterus and the uterine appendages, it is believed to influence the onset of labor.

7. Maternity drink

The mythical birthing drink is said to be able to induce labor. However, it should be added that castor oil can also be used as a laxative and thus cause less pleasant side effects. In other words: don't overdose!

Recipe for the postpartum drink:
about 1 dl of sparkling wine
1 tbsp almond flour
20 ml castor oil
1.5 dl apricot puree (clamped or mixed apricot)

8. Rest

Rest is essential for childbirth. When you rest, relax and take deeper breaths, your body releases oxytocin, which, as mentioned earlier, is the hormone that also helps start and drive labor. There are more activities that help release oxytocin, including massage, yoga, bathing, closeness and touch. Why not try them all?

Read about 7 signs that you are in labor!