This causes no more discomfort than an ordinary vaginal exam. As induction is planned in advance, take that time to discuss with your midwife and doctor the reasons for the induction and the methods that will be used. It will be of great help to you during labour to know why the induction is necessary and how your labour is likely to progress. Intercourse is often suggested as a home-remedy labour inducer. Love-making releases the hormone oxytocin into your bloodstream, which can help the cervix ripen and start off labour.
Semen also contains natural prostaglandins, which help the uterus to contract.
However, don't consider this idea if labour needs to be induced for any of the medical conditions listed above. Also, if you do make love in late pregnancy and contractions begin, stop immediately due to the risk of infection for the baby if the waters have broken. Nipple stimulation can release your own natural oxytocin. Applying a warm towel to both breasts for five minutes or massaging one nipple for 10 minutes has been shown to induce adequate uterine contractions in 20 minutes or less. This activity naturally releases oxytocin.