question for lulu and others re when sensible to start thinking about trying to bring labour on

[Tutter]

i.e. nipple stim etc

would you advise not before 40weeks?

i actively tried to bring on labour with ds1 when i was 39+3 with reflexology, yoga, raspberry leaf tea etc

may well have worked - that night went into labour

but wondering now if it's wise - is it possible to be aggressive and to rush your body when it's not ready?

am now 37+2 and as you know, expecting a bigger-than-average baby

tempting to try to get things moving, but am a little cautious...

you cannot do any harm by trying any of the natural methods to bring on labour..as the hormones are produced by your own body, and your own body will not do something negative, IFYSWIM

sex - well, it helps to ripen the cervix...(the semen does anyway!) and orgasm can help trigger contractions

nipple stim - can bring on or strenghten contractions

your body will not go into labour if not ready...the baby has quite a lot to do with the process too...but you can gently encourage things along

and also it makes you feel better, actually doing something!

raspberry leaf tea or tablets are a good uterine tonic, but they don;t induce labour, it is also good to drink during labour

by all means go for it with the reflexology again, at the worst, you won;t go into labour, but you;ll feel very relaxed

and don;t clock watch!

40 weeks is the EDD , not the definite date!!

try to take a long bath with candles, and relax and visualise the birth you want

thanks lulu - reassuring

will finish packing my hosp bag and get on with it

I am 37+3 too and was thinking the same.....Tutter, do you have any twinges or aches or signs??!!

I feel like I am just wandering around waiting to go into labour......!

Tutter- I am planning on some nipple stim tonight, did alittle last night and had tightenings (stronger than normal) from 10.30pm till 3am.. ireegular.. Had mw appointment this morning and I am 4/5 engaged.. (1/5 palpable) Also had trace of old blood in wee sample, which mw thinks could be from my cervix.. So hopefully things getting a move on.. I am 38+4today..

Goodluck hun.x