What is it about sex that is supposed to start labour?

[MuffinsMummy]

Hi

I am currently 40+4 weeks with DC3. At the midwife appointment yesterday she thought it could be a while before anything happens as cervex (sorry rubbish at spelling!) was completely closed and head needs to descend.

Some people have told me to have sex but my husband had the snip in may. Was just curious if that would make a difference?

Thanks.

Not an expert but hopefully this reply will bump your question.

I think it's to do with the presence of prostaglandins in semen which 'mature' the cervix - so a vasectomy shouldn't make any difference.

Good luck!

Erm, the stuff in semen is the same as the tablets that are inserted when you are induced. I'm pretty sure that even after a vasectomy the semen would still contain them. Good luck!!

My mw told me not to bother with sex unless I was going to enjoy it. Dh was with me at that appointment though so she may have just been dropping a subtle hint to him . Its worth trying though!

It's the prosta thingies in the semen, plus the cervix battering apparently, although the amount of prostaglandin that is in semen is tiny, so you would have to have a lot of sex in order for it to have any effect. If that's your bag when you're 9 months pregnant, then lucky you - go for it!

Its the prostglandins in the semen, plus the mechanical effects of sex/orgasm stimulating the muscles in that area. The pessary they give you when the induce you is full of prostaglandin which is made from pig semen!

PIG SEMEN!! OMG Proseccogirl, I live and learn!

Muffinsmummy, orgasm and nipple stimulation both also release hormones (oxytocin mostly, I think) which may have an effect. But not easy to have that much fun at nine months preg, is it ?

Evening primrose oil also contains prostglandin or something very similar.
You can place a capsule inside at night to dissolve which is supposed to help relax and prepare the cervix.
You could try both :)

It's something in the sperm! Also laughing like a loony can help too (rent a good film/meet up with old friends!)