Breast pumping, when used for inducing labor, works by stimulating your nipples. Stimulating your nipples releases oxytocin. Doctors use a synthetic version of oxytocin, called Pitocin, to induce labor. Oxytocin sends signals to your body to tell it to start contractions.

Is pumping safe to induce labor?

Is it safe? Inducing labor through nipple simulation is generally considered safe if you have a low-risk, healthy pregnancy. But it's only safe to try at-home methods for labor inductions if you are at or past your due date. Inducing labor too early may lead to your baby being born prematurely or preterm.

Does pumping before birth waste colostrum?

Also, some pregnant women notice that their breasts leak colostrum in the days leading up to birth (and why put that first milk to waste?!). However, in most cases, experts agree that pumping colostrum should be avoided.