Hi Bec, Cohosh is a herb, you consult a Naturopath to obtain it. Check with your CP first before using it.

Even natural induction methods, like cohosh, are still interventions. Nothing beats good ol' fashioned waiting and patience, just taking it easy and relaxing, enjoying your labour music and a few gentle exercises - pelvic circles & tilts etc - and walks outdoors. Chill time.

I found doing the pelvic rocks etc on hands & knees etc was helpful because it was comfortable but also helps encourage the baby into an optimal position so the head is well on the cervix.

Walking, swaying your hips etc all helps because it encourages blood and oxygen flow to the area, and the hormones are carried in your blood stream. And it helps you get in tune with your body and get into the birthin' vibe!

I think the same things that help a mother relax and go with birth also help get you into labour. You relax - your hormones flow - it all happens. Same with DTD - same hormones involved. Try to force it - nup. No good. Relax and go with the flow? Here come the hormones ... NOW were cooking!

So, rest and relax, pamper and nurture yourself, fuel your body with nourishing food, listen to music, walk, swim, soak in the bath, a glass of wine perhaps, a relaxing massage, warmth and comfort, dim the lights, mood music, safety and privacy, kisses and cuddles - enjoy your body, savour your pregnancy, enhance the sensuality of it all, take some great photos of your bump .... and in the fulness of time ....

(These sorts of things work during labour too! For the same reason - they enhance hormonal release. Fear and tension, cool temps and bright lights, loud voices, interruptions and people coming and going - do the opposite: inhibit hormonal release.)

These days, so many women are routinely induced, that we've lost touch with what the average length of pregnancy is for un-induced women. 37 - 42 weeks is normal, some women go to 43, 44, 45 weeks, and average is about 41-42 weeks. 4% of babies are born on their 'estimated' due dates.