Keeping Baby In?

dshannah · April 2016

I know there are a lot of tricks and tips for encouraging baby to arrive when he/she is full term, but, for those of us who aren't quite ready and would like to go the full 40 and a few, are there any things we can do to encourage baby to stay put?

Beyond bed rest, that is.

Old wives' tales welcome!

Bluejay3030 · April 2016

I've heard crossing your legs makes it harder for baby to come out

. But in all seriousness, other than avoiding all of the things people claim you can do to kick-start labor, I have no clue. I'm guessing it's just as futile as trying to trigger labor.

laurenmdrn16 · April 2016

We went out to dinner last night and MH refused to let me order a spicy dish because he "didn't want the baby to come shooting out of me". Yeah, I don't think that is how it works, sweetie.

But seriously, I think @Bluejay3030 is right that you just avoid the things that people use to get baby to come at term (certain herbs, foods, activities that stimulate labor like anise, I guess spicy foods, and sex) and check in with your OB to determine what your cervix situation is. If it is thin and dilating, there isn't too much you can do, especially if you are having lots of contractions or BH. Taking it easy (not necessarily bed rest), keeping hydrated, and being aware of your body can help you notice the signs of labor and stave off contractions/BH, but I haven't heard many old wives' tales about keeping babies in.

austintoastie · April 2016

I'm really not wanting to go early either and am really hoping for various reasons that I make it to my due date. My dr said avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, squatting, sex, and to stay super super hydrated and well rested. So that's what I'm doing.

AdorkablePixie · April 2016

I don't want to go either. This little man can cook as long as he wants, up to one week and six days after my due date, then he needs to show up because I REALLY don't want to be induced. My midwife's office will induce if he's not here by 6/6.

finnybooboo · April 2016

Baby will come when baby is ready (or forced to come) and there probably isn't much you can do to prevent it if that's the case. But, they do put women on bed rest for a reason when pre-term labor might be a possibility, so if you really want baby to stay in as long as possible you might want to keep your activity low (no long walks/being on your feet for long periods, lifting heavy things, etc). And obviously don't go taking shots of caster oil

camillaandcarson · April 2016

Water, great hydration, relaxation, prop your feet, think happy thoughts, rest some more.
Have your husband bring you all your favorite foods and tell you how wonderful you are while giving you a foot massage.

khochanadel · April 2016

I am on bed rest now, and I probably could have avoided if I'd just slowed down more when they warned me the first time. I know it's hard to do, when you're trying to get things ready for baby and nesting and want to do all the things!

I second other people's suggestions, and would add protein. Make sure you're getting a lot of it. And if you're not peeing ALL the time, you're not getting enough water.

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