Nipple Stimulation for Labor Induction
STIM: Stimulation Therapy to induce Mothers: a Multicenter Trial
This project explores if using nipple stimulation can help start labor more naturally and lead to better breastfeeding experiences for mothers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143874 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many women in the United States have their labor induced each year, often using synthetic oxytocin. However, this method can be resource-intensive, carry increased risks, and sometimes leads to less successful breastfeeding. This project looks at nipple stimulation therapy, which uses an electric breast pump to encourage the body to release its own natural oxytocin in a way that mimics spontaneous labor. Researchers will compare this method to the standard synthetic oxytocin infusion to see if it can shorten labor, increase natural vaginal deliveries, and improve breastfeeding success.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be women who require labor induction, particularly those expecting their first child.
Not a fit: Women who do not need labor induction or have specific medical reasons preventing nipple stimulation would not benefit from this particular approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a more natural and potentially safer way to induce labor, leading to improved outcomes for mothers and babies, including better breastfeeding success.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary work and a pilot study have shown promising results, indicating that nipple stimulation is feasible, acceptable, and may help shorten labor duration.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Son, Moeun — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Son, Moeun
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.