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Does Sex Induce Labor?

"Does sex induce labor?" This is a question often asked of practitioners by their pregnant patients. The answer may, or may not, be something you wish to hear at nine months pregnant. The truth is that it couldn't hurt.

It's not necessarily associated with starting labor but actually helps to ripen the cervix. Semen contains prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause the cervix to "ripen", or soften and prepare to open. Sex can help the cervix to dilate and efface.

Another side effect of using sex to induce labor is that orgasms produce oxytocin, the hormone that causes contractions. So, between the two, there is a pretty good case for the initiation of labor.

When asked, "Does sex induce labor?", I qualify by saying that it does not have to be intercourse. If you'd like to apply the semen without intercourse, you might consider collecting semen in a condom.

It would even be possible to use a diaphragm or an Instead cup to hold the semen against the cervix. An Instead cup is designed for use during menstruation, but theoretically could be used in this manner.

It's important to note I know of absolutely no studies about any of this, so you're on your own. If anyone is adventurous enough to try this, use my contact form to tell me about your success, or lack of it. 

References

Kavanagh J, Kelly AJ, Thomas J. Sexual intercourse for cervical ripening and induction of labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2001, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD003093. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003093.

French L. Oral prostaglandin E2 for induction of labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2001, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD003098. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003098.