Wah this one quite interesting topic leh! My friend saw Dr Pamela Tan and she mentioned that the gynae actually brought up nipple stimulation herself, explained that rubbing or rolling the nipples can trigger oxytocin release, which is the same hormone that starts contractions, so it's not just old wives' tale. Someone in my mum WhatsApp group also tried it around 39-40 weeks with her gynae's go-ahead and said it did help things along, but her gynae was quite clear, only try if pregnancy is low-risk and full-term, otherwise can cause contractions to come too fast or even irregular labour pattern. The trade-off is it's free and natural, but the risk side is real, a few mums in the group had gynae advise against it because baby position wasn't ideal yet, so it really depends on your specific situation. My honest lean is: worth asking your gynae directly at your next appointment, because whether it's suitable really comes down to how ready your body and baby already are lah.
Nipple stimulation can trigger the release of oxytocin, which is the hormone that causes contractions, so there is some science behind it 😊 That said, it's not a guaranteed way to start labour, and it's generally something to discuss with your gynae first, especially if you have any pregnancy complications or have been advised against certain activities. Breast massage is often used more for comfort or breastfeeding preparation, while nipple stimulation is the one more commonly linked to encouraging labour. Many mums try it near their due date, but every body (and baby!) responds differently