After 9 months of pregnancy, most mums-to-be can't wait to finally give birth, but not all babies arrive on time! Having an overdue pregnancy can be both tiring and frustrating but there are some things you could try that may help to bring on labour.
Below are 5 of the most popular techniques for overdue pregnancies. If you are considering trying to bring on labour, make sure you talk to your midwife first. Also, it's worth remembering that different things work for different people, so some or even all of these techniques may not work for you.
- Move around - this is thought to encourage your baby to move into position. Try activities with a repetitive movement, such as walking, or perhaps rocking side to side on a birthing ball.
- Food and drink - although there is no proven link, certain foods like fresh pineapple and hot curries are commonly thought to get labour going.
- Gentle sex - the act of having sex and achieving an orgasm is thought to trigger the release of the hormone oxytocin, which can stimulate contractions. Semen also contains prostaglandins, a hormone-like substance which helps to prepare the cervix for delivery.
- Simple medical procedures - your midwife or doctor may suggest carrying out a 'membrane sweep' to stimulate contractions.
- Being induced - if you go past your pregnancy due date, your doctor or midwife may recommend an induction.
Although it may feel like it, your pregnancy won't last forever! Your baby will arrive when they're ready, so use the extra time you have to try and relax as much as possible before the birth.
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