Curb Walking: What Is It and Can It Help Induce Labor?

Approaching your due date can feel both thrilling and exhausting. For many pregnant women, each day closer to their baby’s arrival adds anticipation, excitement and perhaps a touch of impatience. While some babies make a grand entrance right on time, others take their sweet time. This leaves many expectant parents wondering, “Is there a way to nudge things along?”

Enter the world of natural labor induction techniques, from age-old remedies like eating spicy foods to modern suggestions such as massage. One method that has gained recent attention is "curb walking." But what exactly is curb walking, and can it really help induce labor?

What Is curb walking for labor?

Curb walking is a simple activity designed to help assist the labor process in those later stages of pregnancy. Luckily, it doesn’t require gymnast-level balance or agility. Here’s how it works:

• Find a curb or ledge (make sure it’s stable and safe to walk on).

• Place one foot on the curb and the other on the street surface.

• Begin walking forward.

By walking unevenly, the theory is that you create an asymmetrical movement in the pelvis. This movement may encourage the baby’s head to descend further into the pelvis, increasing pressure on the cervix and possibly promoting dilation and effacement (the thinning and opening of the cervix). The motion also aligns with other physical activities that focus on getting your body ready for labor.

Experts recommend starting with about 10 minutes of curb walking, listening to your body and taking it easy if discomfort or fatigue sets in.

Is curb walking safe?

For many women, mild exercise such as curb walking is perfectly safe in late pregnancy. However, it’s essential to remember a few safety tips:

• Bring a companion: Balance can become trickier later in pregnancy, so having someone nearby to steady you can help prevent falls.

• Pick the right curb: Avoid areas with cracks, uneven surfaces or busy streets to prevent accidents.

• Listen to your body: Stop immediately if you feel pain, dizziness or discomfort.

• Talk to your healthcare provider: Always consult your doctor or midwife before trying new activities, especially if you have any complications or risks related to your pregnancy.

Does curb walking work to induce labor?

It’s essential to have realistic expectations when it comes to curb walking. While this method may gently encourage your baby to move into the right position and add pressure to the cervix, it’s not a guaranteed method for labor.

What science and experts say about curb walking

There’s limited research backing the effectiveness of curb walking specifically as a labor-induction technique. However, the principles behind it align with broader medical recommendations:

• Movement can help: Experts agree that exercising or walking during pregnancy can encourage the baby into a favorable position, which is key when preparing for labor.

• Your body plays a big role: No method will induce labor unless your body is ready. If you’re already starting to dilate or experience contractions, activities like curb walking might give labor a gentle push. Otherwise, your body’s natural readiness is the primary factor.

Why does walking matter during pregnancy?

Walking has long been one of the most recommended exercises during pregnancy. Beyond the curb walking trend, simply taking a stroll can have numerous benefits:

• Promotes circulation: Walking stimulates blood flow, which helps reduce swelling and improve overall health.

• Supports baby positioning: Regular walking encourages optimal fetal positioning for delivery.

• Boosts mood: Physical activity releases endorphins, reducing stress and helping you feel more positive during those final days of pregnancy.

• Maintains fitness: Staying active in pregnancy can improve stamina, which is valuable for the physical demands of labor.

Doctors commonly recommend a mix of gentle walking and exercises like squats or pelvic tilts for pregnant women in their final trimester. These activities promote pelvic flexibility and may reduce discomfort as babies prepare to engage.

What are other natural methods to encourage labor?

If curb walking isn’t quite your style, there are other methods you might consider trying. Always consult your healthcare provider before attempting any labor-inducing techniques. Some popular options include:

1. Birthing ball exercises: Sitting, bouncing, or doing hip circles on a birthing ball can encourage your baby to move downward and reduce pelvic tension.

2. Squats or lunges: These simple movements can help open the pelvis and engage your baby’s head.

3. Spicy foods: Although more of an old wives’ tale, some believe spicy foods trigger intestinal activity, which can stimulate uterine contractions.

4. Nipple stimulation: Stimulating the nipples encourages the release of oxytocin, a hormone that can help progress labor.

5. Massage or reflexology: Some practitioners use reflex points on feet or hands to support labor activation. Always consult with a professional experienced in prenatal care.

The importance of patience

At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that babies have their own timelines. While activities like curb walking can encourage labor or help ease discomfort, we can’t rush the arrival of a baby that simply isn’t ready. It’s normal to feel exhausted or impatient, especially toward the final days of pregnancy, but focusing on relaxation and self-care is key.

Enjoying warm baths, staying hydrated and finding moments to rest will benefit both your body and your baby. Remember, each pregnancy is unique, and the real goal is a safe and healthy delivery for both mom and baby.

Partner with trusted experts at Ochsner Health for a safe pregnancy journey

If you’re considering labor-inducing techniques or have questions about preparing for birth, our team at Ochsner Health is here to support you every step of the way. From prenatal care to delivery advice, we’re committed to empowering expecting parents with the confidence and tools they need.