You’re 40 weeks pregnant, your ankles are swollen, and your belly feels like it couldn’t possibly stretch any more. You want this baby out!
Safety is in the forefront of your mind, of course, and you are willing to try everything to get your baby born fast.
Many women try to induce labor at home at the end of their third trimester to avoid a medical labor induction. You may have friends that swear by bouncing on an exercise ball, drinking loads of pregnancy tea or engaging in some romance to get labor started.
But what about prenatal massage to induce labor? Could it really make labor easier?
This post is not intended to replace medical advice. You should always contact your doctor before any medical interventions or procedures. This is not medical advice. Please read the disclosure statement for more information.
Can prenatal massage induce labor?
While getting a prenatal massage is a great way to relax and find comfort in the last weeks of pregnancy, it is not a guaranteed way to start labor. However, if you find a prenatal massage therapist that is familiar with using acupressure points, it may help speed up the natural birth process or reduce labor pain.
If your body is ready for labor and you are close to your due date, an induction massage focused on increasing blood flow, promoting relaxation, and applying pressure to specific acupressure points might kick-start your labor.
There is limited scientific research to support prenatal massage starting labor. Most studies have revealed there are no significant differences between moms that have used acupressure during pregnancy and those who have not. In fact, a 2017 study found that acupressure does not start labor. However, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence that keeps the practice alive.
There is also limited research suggesting that moms who receive acupressure have shorter labors. A small study from 2010 found that using specific pressure points can shorten labor, though many providers disagree.
Prenatal massage therapists have been using acupressure techniques on pregnant women for years, so while it may not be a sure thing, it likely won’t hurt. There is plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest that acupressure and prenatal massage can start labor and help women have less pain in labor.
Related: How to Speed Up Labor: Natural Ways that Work
Acupressure points for labor
There are specific trigger points that are thought to start labor. Applying strong pressure to these specific points may trigger some uterine contractions or may relieve some labor pains. The most important thing to note: if your body is not ready for labor, these will not start labor.
The acupressure points that are believed to start labor are:
- the webbing of your thumb and index finger (first finger)
- the top of the achilles tendon above the heel
- the lower back
- the inner ankle bone
Acupressure practitioners are skilled at applying the right amount of pressure to the right place. If you are interested in trying acupressure to either induce labor or improve labor outcomes, I recommend finding someone with specific training to do so. Your hospital or birth center may even allow an acupressure or massage therapist to treat you during your labor.
Related: Labor Advice For Moms-To-Be: 4 Things Your Labor Nurse Wants You To Know
Pregnancy massage
Massage therapy is generally very safe during pregnancy. It’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before booking your pregnancy massage, as certain health conditions may put you at increased risk for complications. Your doctor may suggest waiting until after your first trimester of pregnancy to begin getting pregnancy massages. As always, discuss any and all health concerns with your pregnancy provider.
Regular massage during pregnancy can help you feel comfortable, especially as your growing belly puts extra strain on your body. Whether it’s your partner giving you a foot massage each night or a trained massage therapist, soothing your sore muscles and relieving the pains of pregnancy through massage is a great idea.
The benefits of massage include:
- relaxation
- better sleep
- increased blood flow
- reduced risk of blood clots
- lower stress hormones and cortisol levels
The other benefits of prenatal massage include relief of low back pain and improved circulation. It’s a fantastic way to treat yourself to a little self-care!
Most day spas have pregnancy massage therapists on staff to give prenatal massages. Generally speaking, a pregnancy massage uses light pressure, essential oils, and focuses on specific areas of the body to relieve lower back pain and joint pain associated with the later stages of pregnancy.
During your massage, your massage therapist may ask you to lay on your side or to lay on a specific pregnancy massage table. This is both for your comfort and to improve blood flow to the baby.
Related: Best Pants And Undies For After A C-Section
Other natural methods to start labor
**Please consult with your provider before attempting to induce labor at home.
There are some natural induction methods that many women swear by. These should only be done at the end of your pregnancy with the approval of your provider. The first is drinking castor oil. There are many theories as to how much castor oil you should drink and with what you should drink it, but please be warned you will likely have a very upset stomach. However, many women swear it put them into labor!
Nipple stimulation can also cause a release of oxytocin which can start contractions. Your provider may advise you to try using a breast pump at home to start labor.
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners also sometimes use acupuncture along with acupressure massage to start labor.
Eating spicy foods is another common method women use to try to go into labor. There is actually a pizza shop known for its spicy labor-inducing pizza!
Engaging in adult activities is another popular natural labor induction method. Male ejaculate contains prostaglandins which can help soften the cervix.
Some women claim that eating a lot of pineapple, dates, and raspberry leaf tea helped to start their labor.
Related: How Often Should You See A Chiropractor When Pregnant (And Is It Safe?)
I wish you a very healthy pregnancy and speedy delivery!
Getting regular massages helped me tremendously throughout my pregnancies. If you’re someone that finds comfort in massages, a prenatal massage will likely help you, too.
