Does eating pineapple really help you self-induce?

[Gnay]

I've heard all kinds of stories and I've even been recommended things that I am skeptical about half the time--sex, castor oil, pineapples, nipple stimulation, spicy foods...I've heard it all. And when I researched them, some of these things are also considered dangerous to you and:or your baby. So, it's hard to believe anything, especially knowing every pregnancy is different, and not always do these things work. I am already 40 weeks plus 4 days, FTM, and only felt BH contractions just a few days ago. Yes, I am unfortunately very late and will likely be scheduled for induction. I'm hearing more and more about pineapples being a natural remedy for self-inducing. Has anyone done this before or find it helps push labor?

[super_mom92]

I read alot about the pineapples theory. It is true that pineapples contain a hormone in the core called bromelain. But when u eat one pineapple, it's giving u very small doses of bromelain since most of it is in the core. It is proven to help soften the cervix, and it has helped alot of women. But in order for u to get an accurate amount of bromelain u would have to eat like 5 or 6 lol, almost impossible because of the acid lol. But the hormone is alot found in kiwi, mango, and papaya. But like I said, very small traces of it. Lol good luck. I'm gonna try the pineapple thing on sunday, my doc is on vacation till sunday. I'm 38 weeks. If baby doesn't come by Sunday I'm Def trying it. Lol I will eat so much it makes me sick if I have to lol.

[Gnay]

Oh man, thanks for the details. I've just tried sex and so far it was more pain than pleasure (tmi). I'll give the pineapples a try, but I doubt it's even enough time for me and I will end up inducing anyway. I'm just two days away from schedule now.

[sarahfraim1991]

It has to be fresh pineapple not canned or jarred. I tried it a few days ago and guess what, still pregnant! All it did was make my mouth hurt from all the acid. I literally sat and ate an entire fresh pineapple. There's supposed to be something in it that acts just like semen to thin your cervix but it'll only work if baby is ready to come. Some people swear by it but it didn't help me. I've also tried bouncing on a ball and evening primrose oil. Nothing has helped. Good luck though!