Curb Walking to Induce Labor: What Pregnant Mamas Need to Know

Hey mama! Wondering if curb walking can really kickstart labor? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re full-term and so very ready to meet your little one, or just exploring natural ways to get things moving, you’ve probably seen curb walking pop up or heard about it from other pregnant mamas.

So, what is curb walking exactly? Can it really induce labor? And most importantly — is it safe?

We’re breaking it all down for you, step by step!

Follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over 650k for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!

What is curb walking?

Curb walking is a simple, low-impact movement where you walk with one foot on the curb and one foot on the street, creating a slight imbalance in your hips and pelvis as you walk.

Yep — that’s it! But here’s why it’s become such a buzzworthy labor tip in the pregnant mama world.

It’s all about asymmetry

The uneven step pattern encourages your pelvis to tilt and rock with each step, which can help baby move lower into the birth canal — especially if they’re not fully engaged yet. 

Think of it like gently coaxing your baby into a better position for birth — one lopsided step at a time! 

🧘‍♀️ It’s like prenatal yoga... but on the sidewalk

The movement opens up your hips, stretches your pelvic floor, and promotes alignment — kind of like doing side lunges or pelvic tilts, but way more casual.

Best of all? You can do it outside in fresh air, with your favorite playlist, podcast, or birth affirmations on repeat 🎧

Why do people try curb walking during pregnancy?

Lots of mamas try curb walking in the last weeks of pregnancy as a natural labor induction method. It’s low-risk, free, and lets gravity do some of the work — yes, please!

That said, it's not a magical labor switch. Think of it as one of many things you can try if you're nearing your due date and feel ready but there's no guarantee it will put you in labor.

Does curb walking induce labor?

Let’s be real — there isn’t a ton of scientific research backing this one up. But anecdotally? Tons of mamas swear by it (including myself!)

Here’s why curb walking might work:

• Pelvic tilting opens up your hips, helps baby drop lower, puts pressure on your cervix (🤞)
  
  
• Asymmetrical movement encourages baby to wiggle into an optimal position (🙌)
  
  
• Gravity and motion may stimulate contractions (especially if your body is almost ready)
  
  

It won’t work if your body isn’t ready. No movement, tea, food, or trick can “force” labor if your cervix, hormones, and baby aren’t in alignment yet. But if your body is on the edge of labor? Curb walking could be the little spark it needs 🔥

Some mamas feel things shift right away — while others just get some good pelvic movement and fresh air. 

Either way? It’s a win in my opinion! 

Best time in pregnancy to try curb walking

Stick to curb walking after 37 weeks, once you’re considered full term 

If you’re not sure whether your body is ready — or you’re dealing with complications — talk to your provider first.

Always listen to your body and check in with your provider if you’re unsure!

How to curb walk safely during pregnancy

Safety first, always! Here’s how to give curb walking a try without overdoing it:

🚶‍♀️ Step-by-step instructions

Ready to give curb walking a try? Here’s exactly how to do it safely and effectively:

1. Find a safe curb
Look for a flat, even curb in a quiet area — like a sidewalk near your home or a park path. Avoid curbs with cracks or busy traffic.

2. Stand sideways to the curb
Place one foot on the curb (higher surface) and the other on the street (lower surface). This creates a slight tilt in your pelvis.

3. Begin walking slowly
Walk along the curb in a straight line for 5–15 minutes. Keep your posture upright and your core gently engaged.

4. Switch directions and feet
After a few minutes, turn around and swap which foot is higher so you work both sides evenly.

⭐️ Listen to your body!
If you feel pressure, cramping, or discomfort, take a break or call it a day. A little goes a long way!

Curb walking precautions

While curb walking is gentle for most mamas, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Wear supportive shoes with good grip — skip the sandals or slippers
  
  
• Bring water and stay hydrated, especially in warm weather
  
  
• Have a support person or walk near someone if you’re unsteady
  
  
• Don’t overdo it — it’s okay to stop after 5 minutes, especially if you feel sore or tired
  
  
• Avoid uneven or slippery surfaces to reduce your risk of tripping or falling
  
  
• Stick to daylight hours so visibility is good (for you and drivers nearby!)
  
  

Trust your body — if something feels off, skip it and try another gentle induction method instead.

When should I avoid curb walking?

Curb walking isn’t for everyone, and that’s totally okay! Avoid it if:

• You're less than 37 weeks pregnant 
  
  
• You’ve been told you have pelvic instability, SPD, or sciatica
  
  
• You’re dealing with preterm labor symptoms
  
  
• You have dizziness, lightheadedness, or balance issues
  
  
• You notice vaginal bleeding, fluid leaking, or sharp abdominal pain
  
  
• You’re in a high-risk pregnancy and were advised against exercise
  
  

When in doubt? Check in with your provider before trying anything new — they’ll help guide you safely.

What to expect after curb walking

You might feel:

• Lower pelvic pressure
  
  
• Increased Braxton Hicks contractions
  
  
• More baby movement
  
  
• Sore hips or legs (especially if you overdo it)
  
  

Or… nothing at all — and that’s okay! Labor is complex, and no one trick works for everyone. It may help, or it may just give you a great excuse to get outside and move your body.

Other natural methods to induce labor

1. Miles circuit

2. Nipple stimulation

3. Sex

4. Membrane sweep

5. Pineapple 

Related Reading: Natural Ways to Induce Labor: Everything You Need to Know!

Final thoughts: is curb walking right for you, mama?

If you’re full term, feeling good, and want to try a gentle, natural way to encourage labor — curb walking is a low-risk option to explore!

Just remember: Your baby and your body are in control of the timing. No need to rush things — but if you’re eager and ready, a little sidewalk strut might be just what you need 😉

You’ve got this, mama!!