Castor Oil Inducing Labor

Induce Labor with Castor Oil

Expectant moms have often heard that using castor oil will help induce labor but few understand the connection between the two. Using castor oil to induce labor causes intestinal cramping, bowel stimulation and leads to diarrhea. This in turn will stimulate the uterus to produce prostaglandins, a natural hormone also commonly found in a man’s semen. The prostaglandins will cause the uterus to contract, preparing your body for labor. This method is most effective only if the body is ready for labor. Trying this process anytime before 37 weeks of pregnancy may not produce results and may lead to pregnancy complications. Always consult your physician before beginning any methods of at-home labor induction.

Risks

For the baby A theory exists that using castor oil to induce labor may cause your baby to pass meconium in the womb. Meconium is your baby’s first stool, made up of materials ingested in the womb, and is normally passed after birth. If it is released in the amniotic fluid, the baby may inhale the fluid and be subject to respiratory distress and pneumonia.  However, this is still just theory, as medical research has yet to prove if using castor oil will have this type of outcome.

For the mother Due to the persistent diarrhea that accompanies a dose of castor oil, the mother is at risk   of dehydration and exhaustion. She may experience a lack of normal physical energy which will be needed if the oil is successful in beginning her labor. Castor oil can also cause contractions to be irregular and quite painful, which can put stress on the mother’s body.

Dosage

The normal recommended dosage of castor oil is no more than 2 tablespoons per dose. It may be taken more than once per day however, it may not be needed more than once and many women won’t be willing to take it twice or more. It is suggested that you not take castor oil in the evening or just before bed, as the resulting diarrhea will keep you from getting a full nights sleep. Castor oil is tasteless and odorless, however because it is like any other oil, its consistency may make you think twice about taking it on its own. It is suggested that you mix it well with food or beverages to make it easier on the palate. If you take it in the morning, mix it well with eggs or juice or blend it into a smoothie with some fresh fruit and juice.

Castor Oil Alternative

If you find you are not up to trying a dose of castor oil or have previously tried it with no success, you may want to try evening primrose oil. Primrose is another great source of prostaglandins and will help naturally soften the cervix so it can dilate. Evening primrose is a great alternative because it is available in a soft gel capsule that can be taken orally or inserted vaginally. If used vaginally there is a greater chance of the cervix thinning and opening, as the primrose will be resting on top of it.

The recommended dose of evening primrose oil is two 500mg capsules per day. Side-effects of primrose are very mild, including stomach upset and headaches. As with castor oil, do not take more than the recommended dose for the safety of you and your baby.

Remember to consult your doctor or midwife before trying this.