Childbirth/ripening

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Expert: - 6/6/2009


Question
I am trying to ripen my cervix and one of the ways I have read is to eat pineapples. Does this work and how much do I have to eat? Do you have any other remedies for me?

Answer
Jamie,

The first factor you need to think about is why you want to ripen your cervix.

Unless you're 41 weeks or more, there's typically no need.  Your baby should come when it's ready.  You might want to review some of the true vs. false reasons to induce labor at http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/reasons-to-induce-labor.html before proceeding.


Next, no foods have been shown to help ripen the cervix or induce labor.  You can learn more about this at http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/foods-that-induce-labor.html


If you do have a condition that warrants labor induction or are seeking to avoid a medical induction, then several methods are discussed at http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/natural-ways-to-induce-labor.html


Best,
Catherine

Childbirth

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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