It's generally believed that walking will accelerate early labor. However, studies have been somewhat contradictory and the effect, if present at all, is relatively minor. Nevertheless, walking is advisable during those times when labor may be starting; it's usually more comfortable for the woman, it keeps her blood from stagnating, and it may speed up the advent of more active labor. Later, during active labor, most women do not want to walk, but if they do, there's nothing wrong with it.
Roy Pitkin, M.D.
OB/GYN
Roy Pitkin, M.D., is a professor of obstetrics and
gynecology and is the former chair of the ob/gyn
department at the University of California, Los
Angeles School of Medicine. He is a frequent advisor
to national health agencies on women's health issues and has
received numerous international honors for this work.
