Natural Ways to Ripen Your Cervix for Labor After 36 Weeks
How to Prepare for Labor Naturally After 36 Weeks
As you near the final weeks of pregnancy, your body is getting ready for labor. Your cervix (the lower portion of your uterus that your baby passes through on the way to the birth canal) will start the process of “ripening” during late pregnancy. Ripening is the process of the cervix becoming softer and maybe even beginning to dilate a little, prior to the onset of labor.
Whether you are trying to avoid an elective induction or you are hoping to gently prepare your cervix to naturally soften in preparation for birth after 36/37 weeks of pregnancy, our team would love to share a few tried and true natural ways to support the process.
Eating Dates for Natural Cervical Ripening
Studies suggest that eating six dates per day starting at 36 weeks may support cervical softening and increase the likelihood of spontaneous labor. Some research also links date consumption in late pregnancy with a shorter first stage of labor.
Dates are rich in natural sugars, fiber, and minerals—making them a nourishing, energy-boosting snack during the third trimester.
✨ Try incorporating them into smoothies or homemade energy bites. Here is one of our favorite date balls recipes for you to try at home!
Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) for Cervical Softening
Evening primrose oil (EPO) is commonly used in late pregnancy to support natural cervical ripening. It contains gamma-linolenic acid, which plays a role in prostaglandin production—hormones involved in softening and preparing the cervix for labor.
Some providers recommend use beginning at 37 weeks, either orally or vaginally at bedtime for localized absorption.
Always consult your midwife or healthcare provider before using EPO to ensure it is appropriate for your specific pregnancy.
Gentle Movement to Encourage Baby’s Descent
Movement-based labor preparation techniques may help your baby move into an optimal position and apply gentle pressure to the cervix—encouraging softening and dilation.
Supportive exercises include:
Prenatal yoga
The Miles Circuit
Birth ball exercises
Walking or curb walking
Staying upright and mobile in late pregnancy can naturally support your body’s readiness for labor.
Sex and Nipple Stimulation to Boost Oxytocin
Semen contains natural prostaglandins, which may help with cervical ripening. Orgasms release oxytocin—the hormone responsible for contractions—which can gently stimulate uterine activity.
Nipple stimulation is another natural way to increase oxytocin levels and may help encourage contractions when your body is already close to labor.
As always, discuss with your provider if you have any pregnancy complications.
Acupuncture and Acupressure for Labor Preparation
Certain acupuncture and acupressure points are believed to stimulate uterine activity and encourage labor when you are at term. If you’re interested in this natural induction method, seek care from a licensed and experienced practitioner trained in prenatal support.
Reduce Stress to Support Natural Labor Progress
High stress levels can interfere with oxytocin production and may slow labor progression. Chronic stress in late pregnancy is also associated with increased blood pressure, which can sometimes lead to medical induction.
Preparing for labor naturally also means preparing your nervous system.
Consider:
Guided meditation
Hypnobirthing techniques
Deep breathing exercises
Gentle visualization
Trust Your Body’s Timing
Every pregnancy is different. There is no “perfect” dilation timeline—and your cervix is not on a clock. Natural cervical ripening happens gradually as hormones shift and baby descends.
If you’re looking for personalized, evidence-based support to prepare for labor naturally, One Love Doula Services is here to walk with you every step of the way.
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