Breast pump vs. pitocin: a natural way to induce labor?

NCT ID NCT05079841

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Yale University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares using an electric breast pump (or hand stimulation) to standard oxytocin infusion for inducing labor in nearly 1,000 first-time mothers. The goal is to see if nipple stimulation leads to more spontaneous vaginal deliveries and better experiences for moms and babies. Researchers will also measure oxytocin levels in a smaller group to understand how the body responds.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: electric breast pump (nipple stimulation)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free, more natural way to start labor for first-time mothers, potentially reducing the need for medical interventions like Pitocin.
What could go wrong: This is a Phase 4 study, but it's still early to know if nipple stimulation is as effective or safe as standard oxytocin. Results may not apply to all women, and there is a risk that labor may not progress as needed.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Labor Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INDUCTION OF LABOR AFFECTED FETUS / NEWBORN LABOR PAIN OXYTOCIN PHYSIOLOGIC EFFECTS OF DRUGS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Northwestern Memorial Hospital
ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
Weill Cornell Medicine
RECRUITING

New York, New York, 10065, United States
Yale New Haven Hospital
RECRUITING

New Haven, Connecticut, 06510, United States

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