Natural Ways to Encourage Labour (That Don’t Involve Bouncing on a Ball for Hours)

Natural Ways to Encourage Labour (That Don’t Involve Bouncing on a Ball for Hours)

You’re nearing (or maybe past) your due date, firstly ignore this delete any due date tiers, add two weeks to the date they gave you! (And if you're before that date wahoo!) Your texts are full of “Any signs yet?” and your body feels ready—but baby seems to be taking their sweet time.

Before heading down the induction path, let’s talk about some natural ways to gently nudge things along—emphasis on gentle. Because the truth is, labour begins when your baby and your body are ready. But there are ways to help them feel safe, relaxed, and ready to go.

Here are a few of my favourites:

1. Walking Uphill (Seriously!)

Gravity is your friend. Walking uphill tilts your pelvis forward and encourages baby to settle deeper into position. Think less “power hike,” more mindful stroll with intention. Bonus if it’s in nature—fresh air + oxytocin = labour-loving combo.

2. Aromatherapy

Essential oils like clary sage, lavender, and rose can support relaxation and hormone flow (particularly oxytocin). Use in a diffuser, or dab a little on a cloth to inhale. Always use safely—especially with clary sage, which is strong and best used under guidance when full-term.

3. Fear Releasing

Sometimes what’s holding labour back isn’t physical—it’s emotional. Fear, tension, or even unspoken worries can cause your body to pause. Journaling, breathwork, guided meditation, or a good cry with someone you trust can be deeply releasing. Your body needs to feel safe to open.

4. David Attenborough (Yes, really)

Okay, half joking—but also? Not really. Anything that relaxes your nervous system and boosts oxytocin is helpful. That calm voice, those sweeping animal shots, the slow rhythm of storytelling—it’s practically labour medicine. (Cue: “And here, in the wild unknown, a woman prepares for birth…”)

5. Acupuncture & Acupressure

Traditional Chinese Medicine has long supported the idea that certain points on the body can stimulate uterine activity and encourage alignment. Many women find a session or two with a qualified practitioner can soften the cervix, bring on contractions, or just help them rest deeply—which is just as valuable.

6. Herbal Teas

Red raspberry leaf tea is often touted for its uterus-toning properties (though it’s more of a slow build than a quick fix). Some midwives also suggest evening primrose oil or specific blends, but always consult a trusted herbalist or care provider first—natural doesn’t always mean risk-free.

7. Massage

Soothing touch lowers cortisol, boosts oxytocin, and releases tension in your muscles (especially the hips and back). A professional massage or even a slow, intentional rub from your partner can work wonders—physically and emotionally.

8. A Calm, Supportive Environment

This might be the most powerful “induction” tool of all. Feeling safe, loved, heard, and cared for allows your body to let go. Turn down the lights. Nest. Be around people who make you feel held. This is primal stuff—and your hormones respond to it deeply.

9. Sex (siemen)

The protein in siemen is what you need to help soften your cervix, the sex is gonna fill your oxytocin but the siemen could be key.

10. Plan your fave night

Think a night you don't want to labour a night where you just want to enjoy your fave meal a funny film maybe a glass of wine, and I bet thats not what happens ;-)