If you’re overdue and eager to meet your baby, you might be tempted to try some natural ways to induce labor.
One technique that has gained popularity is curb walking to induce labor. But what is it, how does it work, and is it safe? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Curb Walking To Induce Labor?
Curb walking to induce labor is one of the most common exercises to induce labor that some pregnant women use to try to start delivery naturally.
It involves walking with one foot on the raised curb and the other on the lower street, creating an uneven gait and making you sway your hips from side to side.
The idea behind curb walking is that this motion can help your baby move down into your pelvis and put more pressure on your cervix.
This pressure can stimulate the cervix to dilate and thin out, signs that labor is approaching.
By curb walking, you can encourage your baby to get into the optimal position for birth and speed up the process of labor.
Benefits Of Curb Walking While Pregnant
If you want to get the answer to “Why does curb walking induce labor?”, during weeks of pregnancy, you must read these benefits listed below. Including:
- Curb walking can help you avoid unnecessary medical interventions. If you are in late pregnancy or have a medical condition that requires you to deliver soon, your doctor may suggest inducing labor artificially.
- Curb walking can give you a sense of control and empowerment. Walking on curb to induce labor can reduce frustration and stress, especially if you are in the final stage of pregnancy or have a lot of pressure from family or friends.
- Sidewalk walking to induce labor can be enjoyable. You can do it at your own pace and comfort level and choose a scenic or familiar route. If you want more happiness, you can invite your partner, friend, or doula to join you and have quality time together.
Although curb walking is highly recommended to impact uterine contractions strongly, there is no strong scientific evidence for this myth.
You should consult your doctor before applying any natural labor induction methods. This will keep a healthy pregnancy.
How To Curb Walk Safely
Curb walking can bring the best outcomes of labor only when you follow the correct curb steps pregnancy.
You can also answer, “How fast does curb walking induce labor?” and “How long to curb walk to induce labor?” after getting useful instructions below.
Don’t miss this information; by contrast, you can not have a good preparation for delivery.
Walk On Quiet Places
Curb walking in quiet places can benefit your mental and physical health.
When you do it, you can help yourself reduce stress, anxiety, and noise pollution, which can affect your mood and well-being.
Quiet places can also help you focus on your breathing, baby, and body, enhancing your connection and awareness.
It’s a reason why quiet places are ideal for increasing the benefits of exercise.
Take Slow And Focus On Balance
Curb walking is a simple and natural way to induce labor but requires caution and attention.
Walking on the curb’s edge, alternating your feet on and off the pavement, you create gentle pressure on your pelvis and cervix.
Remember not to rush or lose your balance, which can cause injury or stress. Take curb walking slowly, focus on your breathing and posture, and enjoy its benefits.
Mix With Other Kinds Of Walking
You should limit your curb walking to 10 minutes per session to avoid straining your muscles and joints.
If you feel more comfortable with regular walking, don’t hesitate to try it for another 10 to 20 minutes.
This can bring relaxation for yourself and balance your heart rate effectively. Always remember to focus on your well-being first.
Don’t Overdo
It would help if you did not overdo curb walking, which could cause pain, discomfort, or exhaustion.
Curb walking may only work if your body is ready to go into labor, and it is not a guarantee.
You’d better consult your doctor before trying any exercise program to promote uterine activity.
In some situations, you should focus on moderate exercise to keep safe at the best level.
Which Alternatives For Sidewalk Walking To Induce Labor?
You can consider other natural induction methods instead of curb walking in certain situations. For walking at your home, you can try:
- Walk with your stairs slowly to promote the birthing process
- Try some simple lunges in the final days of pregnancy
- Follow regular walking programs on the TV and practice with them
- Try to stand with high-heeled shoes in some minutes
- Practice with an optimal birthing position like cat or butterfly poses
- Increase fitness level with gentle dance music
Besides exercise, an alternative for winter babies also brings the amazing experience of having pressure points to induce labor.
It is also a traditional natural labor-inducing technique that many multiparous women use.
Safe Considerations When Trying Curb Walking To Induce Labor
Curb walking can be dangerous to walk on an uneven surface, especially when your balance and coordination are affected by your pregnancy.
You may trip, slip, or fall and injure yourself or your baby.
Curb walking can also increase your risk of dehydration, fatigue, or overheating, harming your health and your baby’s well-being.
Therefore, when you have to curb walking in the stages of delivery after having signs of labor, you should consult your doctor to get the best delivery outcomes.
They can advise whether it is safe for you and your baby and how to do it properly.
You should also follow some safety precautions, such as wearing comfortable shoes, choosing a smooth and level curb, avoiding traffic and obstacles, staying hydrated, and stopping if you feel any discomfort or signs of labor.
Remember that curb walking is not a proven method of inducing labor and may not work for everyone.
FAQs
Who Shouldn’t Try Walking On Curb To Induce Labor?
Walking on a curb may seem like a harmless way to induce labor, but it can be risky for some pregnant women.
If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, placenta previa, or any other complications, you should avoid this method.
How Much Does Curb Walking Induce Labor?
When you approach the 40-week delivery process, you can succeed with curb walking if you follow the right exercise steps.
Always consult your doctor to get a good speed and frequency for this exercise.
Does Curb Walking Soften Your Cervix?
Curb walking may also help soften your cervix, which is the opening of the uterus. When the cervix is soft and dilated, labor is near.
Curb walking can increase blood flow to the cervix and stimulate the release of hormones that prepare it for birth.
Conclusion
My blog listed the benefits of getting curb walking to induce labor and how to adopt it right.
Remember that balance issues are important in keeping walking safe and encouraging good preparation for birth. Please have a wonderful experience with it!
