Pregnancy is an exciting time for people, but the end of the journey can be daunting as the anticipation of childbirth builds. The lingering thoughts and possibility of medical induction for “past due date” or any other reason can create a sense of fear and anxiety (counterproductive emotions of labour). Fortunately, nature has provided some natural remedies to help encourage spontaneous labour and make the birthing process easier and more comfortable. One of these remedies is dates, a nutrient-dense fruit used for centuries to help induce labour.
Dates are packed with nutrients that can benefit both the birthing person and baby during childbirth. Dates contain iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A and K, essential for fetal development and healthy birth outcomes. Dates are also high in dietary fibre, which can help stimulate the digestive system and promote regular contractions.
Additionally, dates have been found to contain oxytocin, a hormone that helps induce labour. Studies have found that dates can reduce the need for medical interventions!
Dates are a source of natural energy, and their high sugar content can give the birthing person the extra energy they need during labour and birth. Dates also contain potassium, which can help reduce swelling, and magnesium, which can help reduce pain.
Eating dates in late pregnancy can also help prevent postpartum depression. Dates are rich in serotonin, which helps regulate mood and can help reduce the chances of developing postpartum depression.
It’s important to note that dates are not a substitute for medical care during childbirth, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended. It’s also important to talk to your doctor or midwife before consuming large quantities of dates, as they can cause unwanted side effects if consumed in excess.
Overall, dates are a safe, natural way to help encourage spontaneous labour and make the birthing process easier and more comfortable. For expecting people looking for a natural remedy to induce labour, dates may be a good option.
References:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5907941/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5876200/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5646862/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6441818/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4878202/
6. Photo credit https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/dates-during-pregnancy
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other qualified health care provider. You should always seek the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.
