Giving birth is one of the most wonderful experiences a woman can have. But sometimes a baby is in no hurry to make an appearance and might need a little encouragement. If you are overdue and tired, there are some safe methods you could try at home to stimulate labor and finally meet your baby.

You and your doctor most likely discussed medical induction by now. It is, however, important to understand that medications come with a potential danger and side effects. They should be used only as an emergency, after more natural approaches have been explored.

Pregnancy can be ended the same way it started – by having sexual intercourse. The hormones in the semen called prostaglandins can help soften the cervix. During orgasm a woman releases large amounts of oxytocin, which stimulate contractions. Nipple stimulation also brings about the release of oxytocin.

Many women just don’t feel like having sex at nine months pregnant. It’s understandable and there are other things they could try. The most basic thing is to use the force of gravity. It’s as simple as it sounds. Bouncing on an exercise ball or simply walking can help baby to descent, speeding delivery process.

Some herbs, like black and blue cohosh, promote contractions and help the cervix to dilate. Their use, however, is not recommended, because they are possibly unsafe. They have been associated with severe hemorrhaging during childbirth and cardiac complications in newborns.

One of the most safest methods of non-invasive labor induction comes from Asia and has been in use for thousands of years. It’s called maternity acupressure and it’s specifically intended to help with pregnancy and childbirth.

Maternity acupressure uses the same principles as acupuncture, but without the needles. It uses gentle finger pressure on specific spots on the skin called acu-points. It can be used not only for inducing labor, but also to ease discomforts of childbirth. Simple, safe and effective.