Pineapple in Pregnancy: Is It Safe and Can It Help Labour?

Wondering if pineapple is safe in pregnancy or if it can help bring on labour? A midwife explains the truth behind the myths, nutritional benefits, and how much is safe to eat.

✨ TL;DR Summary

• ✅ Pineapple is safe in normal amounts

• ⚠️ Bromelain levels are low, unlikely to trigger labour

• 🧡 Nutritional benefits include vitamin C, antioxidants, and folate

Is pineapple safe to eat in pregnancy?

Yes; it is safe to eat pineapple when pregnant.

It contains many helpful nutrients, and there is no evidence to suggest it causes harm to a typical pregnancy.

The worry is, is that rumour has it, pineapple can kick start labour. This is because pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, but it’s mostly found in the core and broken down during digestion. In the quantities you’d eat as part of a balanced diet, pineapple is completely fine for pregnant people.

Why I have I heard it may not be safe?

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain. Bromelain tablets aren’t recommended for pregnant women. They can break down proteins in the body and can also cause abnormal bleeding. Bromelain is found in the core of a pineapple and only a tiny amount is in the flesh – which is the part you eat. Therefore, the amount of bromelain you would consume in one serving of pineapple would be minimal.

In short: eating a normal amount of pineapple isn’t likely to affect your pregnancy.

Is pineapple good for me in pregnancy?

Pineapple actually contains a lot of vitamin C. One cup contains nearly the recommended daily amount for a woman to eat!

Pineapple is a tropical fruit loaded with benefits:

• Vitamin C – helps support the immune system and aids in iron absorption.

• Folate – important in the early stages of pregnancy for fetal development.

• Bromelain (trace amounts) – may help with digestion.

• Antioxidants – help reduce inflammation and support general wellbeing.

It’s refreshing, hydrating, and a great alternative to processed sweets.

Can pineapple bring on labour?

Pineapple contains bromelain, which is believed that it may soften the cervix and stimulate contractions. However, bromelain is mostly in the pineapple core, and even then, you’d need to eat an enormous amount for any possible labour-inducing effect. It is more likely to give you a diarrhoea.

As a midwife, I tell parents that while pineapple is a delicious snack, it’s not a proven method of starting labour. But, it’s also not a harmful thing to try. So if you like pineapple and you’re wanting to bring on labour then give eating fresh pineapple a try.

Can anything else bring on labour?

Anything that irritates your bowel can also irritate your uterus into contracting. If you’ve ever been overdue you’ve likely been recommended a hot curry, and this follows this theory. The evidence to support these theories isn’t actually there, although other than a dodgy tummy they will do no harm.

If you want a list on things that can be done to kick start inducing labour that doesn’t involve hiking hills, then I’ve got your back. Head here to read The Lazy Girl Guide to Inducing Labour.

FAQs About Pineapple and Pregnancy

Is pineapple safe in early pregnancy?
Yes, in moderate amounts. There’s no evidence that it causes miscarriage.

Can eating pineapple cause miscarriage?
This is a myth. There’s no clinical evidence linking pineapple consumption to miscarriage in healthy pregnancies.

Is pineapple core more dangerous?
The core contains more bromelain, but it’s tough to eat and not typically consumed in large quantities. No need to worry unless you’re eating a lot of core daily (which would also cause a very sore mouth!).

Can pineapple juice bring on labour?
Highly unlikely. Processed juice contains little to no bromelain, and there’s no scientific evidence that it triggers labour.

Does it need to be fresh pineapple over tinned for starting labour?
Yes. Tinned pineapple is processed so will contain little bromelain. So if you’re wanting to give inducing labour a go with eating pineapple, eating fresh pineapple will give you the best chances.

Final Thoughts from a Midwife

Pineapple is safe and nutritious in pregnancy, especially when enjoyed in moderation. It offers great taste and useful vitamins, and despite the rumours, it’s unlikely to send you into labour.

If you’re exploring natural ways to prepare for birth, check out my midwife created & approved hypnobirthing course for down-to-earth guidance that works for every kind of birth.

You’ve got this and the pineapple’s just a bonus snack! 🍍

Photo credits: @gillsmithx

Last updated: June 2025