There are various non-medical methods of induction you can try towards the end of your pregnancy, once you
are term (>37 weeks), to try to avoid a medical induction. Some of these include:
 
      ● Membrane stripping (“Stretch and Sweep”) - Your midwife can do a vaginal exam and check your cervix;
         if it is 1-2cm dilated they can attempt to “stretch” the cervix open using their fingers and “sweep” the membranes,
         releasing prostaglandins to help ripen your cervix. An internal exam close to term can also be helpful in providing
         a baseline of what changes your cervix has made. When you go into labour this can be helpful in making plans for
         your care in early labour.
 
      ● Intercourse - semen contains prostaglandins that help ripen your cervix and orgasm causes your body to release
         oxytocin (the hormone that causes contractions).
 
      ● Nipple stimulation – Manual stimulation and/or using a breast pump can help to release oxytocin.
 
      ● Evening primrose oil (EPO) - starting around 36 weeks, another cervical ripening method; can be taken by mouth
         or puncturing capsules with a sterile pin and inserted vaginally
 
      ● Red raspberry leaf tea - a uterine tonic, which helps tone and strengthen your uterus
 
      ● Walking
 
      ● Massage, acupuncture/acupressure, chiropractic
 
      ● Castor oil - We don’t recommend taking castor oil as the main side effects are vomiting and diarrhea.
​         If not taken properly, this can lead to dehydration.
 
Talk to your midwife if you are considering any of these methods.