Acupuncture, acupressure, and breast stimulation are popular natural labor induction methods, but what does the latest research tell us about how well they actually work?
In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker dives into the new research on whether these approaches can help ripen the cervix, encourage spontaneous labor, or reduce the need for a medical induction. She explores the evidence on acupuncture, acupressure, and the related practice of Shiatsu, including why studies have reached conflicting conclusions about their effectiveness. She also examines the research on breast and nipple stimulation, how it can trigger the release of oxytocin, and what studies suggest about its potential role in preparing for and starting labor.
(02:07) Understanding Acupuncture, Acupressure, and Shiatsu
(08:30) Cervical Ripening and the Bishop Score
(10:26) Evidence and Safety of Acupuncture for Labor Induction
(19:43) Evidence on Acupressure for Labor Induction
(23:16) Shiatsu and Labor Induction
(27:27) Breast and Nipple Stimulation for Labor Induction
(28:51) Research on Breast Stimulation, Cervical Ripening, and Labor
(32:54) Breast Stimulation vs. Pitocin for VBAC
(35:57) Safety of Breast and Nipple Stimulation
(37:42) Breastfeeding During Pregnancy and Preterm Labor
Resources
