does sex really induce labour?

[beckymcfc]

just wondering from peoples past experiences, does sex really help to bring on labour?

Can do - takes about 9 months

no

It can do super stuff that sperm.

Sorry but no

Weeks 39, 40 and 41 were spent at it trying to get dd going. I gave birth at 40+13. Fun 3 weeks mind you but from a practical point of view useless.

Well, the science is there...prostaglandins in the sperm help to soften the cervix, oxytocin released during orgasm can help trigger contractions...

Whether it actually works or not I'm not sure. Perhaps if you've already started it might help things along a bit but I doubt it will start labour off if you're not ready anyway.

I think men just tell you that!

I tried it when I was overdue in all 3 pregnancies with no success. Had to be induced each time.
But I have heard from a GP friend that nipple stimulation has been proven to work (altho I havent seen the evidence myself) but it has to be done for 45 mins!!!!! There was no chance I was trying that

It might or it might not. There's something in the science, but if it really truly worked, then everyone would know about it.

But even if the effect is only marginal, at least it gives you something to do whilst the waiting drags on. (And it my well be quite a time until you do it again).

i truly believe it does, but i think you have to do it more than once. 7 for the last labour but i was in labour four hours later has worked every time for me.