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Evidence Based Birth®

Evidence Based Birth®

EBB 414 - Evidence on Natural Labor Induction: Acupuncture, Acupressure, and Breast Stimulation

Oct 7, 2026 · 43m

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On this episode

About this episode

Acupuncture, acupressure, and breast stimulation are popular natural labor induction methods, but what does the latest research tell us about how well they actually work? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker dives into the new research on whether these approaches can help ripen the cervix, encourage spontaneous labor, or reduce the need for a medical induction. She explores the evidence on acupuncture, acupressure, and the related practice of Shiatsu, including why studies have reached conflicting conclusions about their effectiveness. She also examines the research on breast and nipple stimulation, how it can trigger the release of oxytocin, and what studies suggest about its potential role…