Talk to your midwife, obstetrician, or labor and delivery unit before trying nipple stimulation
Do not try it if you have placenta previa, bleeding, preterm labor risk, a high-risk pregnancy, or any condition your clinician has told you to avoid it for
Wash your hands and make sure you are in a comfortable, private place
Use one hand to gently roll, rub, or massage one nipple at a time
Stimulate for about 5 minutes, then stop and wait 10 to 15 minutes
Repeat on the same nipple or switch to the other nipple
Keep the stimulation gentle to moderate, not painful
Stop immediately if contractions become very strong, very close together, or do not relax between contractions
Stop if you have vaginal bleeding, fluid leaking, decreased fetal movement, dizziness, or severe pain
Limit sessions and do not continue for long periods without medical guidance
Monitor contraction frequency and baby’s movements while doing it
Contact your clinician or go to labor and delivery if contractions are regular, painful, or about 5 minutes apart
Do not use breast pumps or aggressive stimulation unless specifically instructed by a clinician
Do not use nipple stimulation as a substitute for medical care if you are overdue or concerned about your pregnancy