Giving Birth Naturally

Homoeopathy: The homoeopathic remedy potassium phosphate has a reputation for bringing on an overdue labour. Caulophyllum 30c is often recommended to be taken once a day for 10 days before your due date and then during labour every two hours, with a maximum of six doses in each 24 hours until contractions are regular. If this is not effective, take the 200c dose every half hour for two to three doses. The following remedy also helps to soften the cervix: gelsemium 30c every half-hour for six to eight doses if caulophyllum is ineffective. This remedy is also used for ineffectual contractions.

Reflexology: Treatment can be applied to pituitary reflexes. v Cranial osteopathy: This can stimulate the pituitary gland to produce hormones important for labour.

Herbalism: Drink raspberry leaf tea four times a day. If youre overdue, three to eight drops of the herbal blue cohosh fluid extract can be taken, in warm water, every hour for up to four hours or until your contractions are regular. The herbs pennyroyal and tansy are traditionally used to bring on a period and can also assist. Pennyroyal oil can be used in a burner or inhaled. The herb schisandra may be used in conjunction to help bring on a delayed labour and increase infrequent or weak contractions.

Physical stimulation: Standing or squatting will put more pressure on your cervix and encourage it to open. Keep active, go for long, gentle walks and when home, spend as much time as possible crouching in the squatting position. Stimulating your nipples in preparation for breastfeeding will also release hormones that soften the cervix and stimulate uterine contractions. With the aid of an oil or cream, gently roll and squeeze your nipples. If your partner is able to help, all the better. Slow and sensual lovemaking leading to orgasm is not only a great emotional and physical release, it can also help to bring on labour. You can continue between contractions but its recommended that you stop once they become two minutes apart lest the process overtakes you.