$Unique_ID{BRK00211}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Can Obstetricians Induce Labor with Sexual Stimulation?}
$Subject{sex labor induced Pregnancy Childbirth Obstetricians Sexual
Stimulation Female Reproductive System uterus obstetric genitals nipples
uterine contractions contraction birth woman women females obstetrician}
$Volume{K-14}
$Log{
Anatomy of the Female Reproductive System*0006101.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can Obstetricians Induce Labor with Sexual Stimulation?


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QUESTION:  I've been told that obstetricians can induce labor with sexual
stimulation.  Is this really done?

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ANSWER:  While it is true that sexual stimulation can cause the uterus to
contract, which in turn helps induce labor, it is not something done in normal
obstetric practice.  A woman who is in a delivery room waiting for her labor
to progress is not likely to be in the mood for sexual stimulation, in any
case.  Further, stimulation of the genitals after the membranes have broken is
not a good idea since there is the chance of causing an infection.
     It has been known for some years that stimulating the nipples can induce
uterine contractions.  The trouble is that the effect is unpredictable.  There
is no way to gauge how much stimulation will induce how much contraction.  The
contractions can be excessive and excessive contractions are more bad than
good.  If labor is not progressing, it is better to either wait it out or use
medications to bring it on, since the effect of these drugs can be closely
controlled.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.