One of the old-wives tales is that you could induce your labor by cleaning your household. But can cleaning induce labor, really? Actually, there are some facts supporting this argument! Sometime during your pregnancy you have probably heard of “nesting”. Nesting is a natural process that all mammals go through before the birth of their young; humans are no exception. You may find that around your estimated due date, you suddenly have a burst of energy and feel as if you must clean everything in the house and get things ready for your new baby. This behavior is triggered by specific hormone changes that occur just before labor begins. This is a normal function; however the physical activity while cleaning your home can help the labor to start. Thus, a little bit more about “can cleaning induce labor”.

First, it should be said that pregnant women should always exercise care when cleaning their homes. Although the work must be done, and preparations for the new baby must be a priority, it is possible for women to strain muscles or injure themselves during housework. One of the most common accidents that may occur is slipping on wet floors, so always take your time and use caution when cleaning while pregnant. Many women may find that during the latter parts of their pregnancy, they are simply too tired to exercise. However, when you experience a sudden burst of energy during the nesting phase you'll find that house cleaning is a good practical approach to remain physically active and stay fit once you use caution and don't overexert yourself.

Labor is induced in several ways by cleaning your house. First, cleaning requires you to walk, bend, squat, be on all fours and stand. Certain positions and changing them do play a role in helping the baby to get into an optimal birthing position. Especially squatting helps the baby to descend into the birth canal. Squatting is not recommended if the baby is in breech, the crawling position is preferred. This position gives the baby more space to turn before the labor starts.

Whether you are picking things off of the floor or putting clothes in bottom drawers, it is always important to remember that you should never bend over from your waist when pregnant. Always bend at the knees or get down and crawl. Bending over from your waist will put unnecessary stress and strain on your back and can result in back pain. If you need to pick things up from off of the floor, squat down first. Squatting, in addition to helping your baby to descent, opens up the pelvic area, and stretches your muscles on the pelvic area and inner thighs, and relaxes your lower back. This will prevent you from pulling back muscles and helps encourage the baby to move headfirst into the birth canal.

Another way cleaning can induce labor, is lifting things while cleaning; when you lift something, pressure in your thoracic and abdominal cavity increases. The uterus may be stimulated. It is not uncommon for women to feel contractions after lifting something. Again, you should never try to lift anything that is too heavy, or you might hurt yourself.

Lastly, the process of cleaning can relax your body. Tension is known to hold back labor from starting. Doing something meaningful that brings you results, instead of just waiting, keeps your thoughts away from the hours that separate you from having your baby in your arms. Additionally, light physical exercise is one of the best cures for stress, anxiety and tension.