The Bishop Score is like a *cervical report card*—it checks how ready your body is for labor by looking at five factors. Each gets a score from 0 to 3, for a total of 0-13:
- Cervical Dilation: How open is your cervix? 0 cm (0 points), 1-2 cm (1 point), 3-4 cm (2 points), 5-6 cm (3 points).
- Cervical Effacement: How thin is your cervix? 0-30% (0 points), 40-50% (1 point), 60-70% (2 points), 80%+ (3 points).
- Cervical Position: Is your cervix pointing backward or forward? Posterior (0 points), mid-position (1 point), anterior (2-3 points).
- Cervical Consistency: Is your cervix firm like a nose or soft like a lip? Firm (0 points), medium (1 point), soft (2-3 points).
- Fetal Station: How low is baby’s head in your pelvis? -3 (0 points), -2 (1 point), -1/0 (2 points), +1/+2 (3 points).
- A score of 8 or higher means your cervix is ‘favorable’—you’re ready to roll, with a 90%+ chance of a successful vaginal delivery (per a 2015 study in *American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology*). A score of 6 or lower means your cervix needs some TLC, and induction might have a 30% higher chance of leading to a cesarean (per a 2018 study in *Obstetrics & Gynecology*). Either way, God’s got a plan—‘The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him’ (Psalm 37:23).
How to Boost Your Bishop Score Naturally
Whether your Bishop Score is high or low, natural methods can help your body get *labor-ready*—like a gentle nudge from above! If your score is low (0-6), we’ll focus on ripening your cervix. If it’s higher (7+), we’ll work on sparking contractions. But first, a quick note: a low score isn’t a failure—it’s just info to help us work with your body. As Philippians 4:6 says, ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.’ Let’s pray, prepare, and maybe even laugh a little—why did the cervix want a higher score? To be the *bishop* of its own labor!
Natural Prep for Your Bishop Score
Let’s get your body ready for labor with safe, natural methods—tailored to your Bishop Score! Always check with your provider first, because even natural methods come with risks. Here’s what to try:
For Low Scores (0-6): Cervical Ripening
A low score means your cervix needs some softening—let’s get it *ripe* for labor!
- Evening Primrose Oil (EPO): Softens the cervix with prostaglandins. A 2012 study in *Midwifery* found that 1,000 mg daily from 37 weeks led to a softer cervix and 10% fewer post-term pregnancies. Take 1,000-2,000 mg orally or insert a 500 mg capsule vaginally at bedtime (with provider approval). *Caution*: May cause stomach upset; avoid if on blood thinners.
- Eating Dates: Dates boost prostaglandin production to ripen the cervix and provide energy for labor. A 2018 study in *Journal of Food Science and Technology* (Ahmed et al.) found that eating 5 dates daily after 36 weeks improved cervical ripening and APGAR scores. Eat 5 dates per day, paired with protein to balance blood sugar. *Caution*: Check with your doctor if diabetic.
- Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: Tones the uterus and may help with ripening. A 2020 study in *Birth* showed a 15% lower rate of medical induction for tea drinkers. Drink 1-2 cups daily from 37 weeks (steep 1 tea bag for 5-10 minutes). *Caution*: Start with 1 cup to avoid strong Braxton Hicks.
- Acupressure: Stimulates points like Spleen 6 (above the ankle) and Large Intestine 4 (hand webbing) to promote ripening. A 2017 meta-analysis in *Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology* found a 15% reduction in medical inductions. Press each point for 30 seconds, 3-4 times a day. *Caution*: Stop if contractions get too intense.
For High Scores (7+): Stimulating Contractions
A high score means your cervix is ready—let’s get those contractions going! These methods work best because your body’s already primed for labor.
- Walking: Uses gravity to encourage baby’s descent and oxytocin release. A 2018 Cochrane Review found walking shortened labor by 1 hour and reduced cesarean rates by 25%. Walk 30 minutes, twice a day (hospital halls are perfect!). *Caution*: Rest if you feel dizzy.
- Nipple Stimulation: Releases oxytocin to trigger contractions. A 2014 study in *Birth* showed a 20% increase in spontaneous labor within 72 hours. Gently massage one nipple for 15 minutes, 3 times a day. *Caution*: Avoid if you have a history of preterm labor.
- Sexual Intercourse: Semen provides prostaglandins, and orgasm releases oxytocin. A 2019 study in *Sexual Medicine Reviews* noted a 20% increase in spontaneous labor. Try intimacy if you’re up for it—focus on connection. *Caution*: Skip if your water has broken.
- Membrane Sweeping: Your provider separates the amniotic sac from the cervix, releasing prostaglandins. A 2020 Cochrane Review found it reduced overdue pregnancies by 41%. Done during a vaginal exam; expect cramping. *Caution*: Not for everyone—check with your provider.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Whether your Bishop Score is high or low, you’re on a sacred journey, mama! Trust in God’s timing—‘I can do all things through Him who strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13). Want more support? Reach out to me or my friend Racine Hooper at Limitless Love Doula Care and Education in Asheville. We’re here to help you *deliver* with faith, joy, and maybe a few laughs!
