You may have heard about some old wives' tales or so-called natural methods for inducing labor, such as drinking castor oil. Your healthcare provider is the person you should ask about safe ways to induce labor. Castor oil is made from the beans of the castor plant. The oil contains ricinoleic acid, which, after your body absorbs it, is then released by the intestines, creating a laxative effect.
This is why castor oil is sometimes prescribed for relieving constipation. It can also be prescribed for emptying the bowels in preparation for an examination or surgery. Castor oil has been suggested as an alternative method for inducing labor in the past by some midwives.
Over the years, people have tried many different methods to help induce labor naturally, from eating spicy food to bouncing on an exercise ball. Some people may be tempted to try castor oil as a means to help induce labor. Those who consider using castor oil to induce labor should try to find out about its effectiveness, particularly the safety issues associated with its use for this purpose, before they try it.
This is because there are significant dangers. Keep reading for more information on the risks and dangers of using castor oil to induce labor, whether or not inducing labor is a good idea, and some other ways that may help those who wish to do so. Castor oil is an extract from Ricinus communis. For centuries, people have used castor oil for various ailments, though most applications only have the support of anecdotal evidence.
Few scientific studies have addressed the effectiveness of castor oil in treating health conditions. Castor oil is a common ingredient in soaps, coatings, lubricants, and other commercial products. It contains several allergenic proteins, including ricin, which research indicates is a potent and dangerous plant toxin. However, following the removal of these potentially dangerous substances, people can use castor oil for pharmaceutical purposes.
For example, castor oil can help with constipation. Learn more about castor oil and constipation here. Castor oil also has potential benefits for the face and skin. Read about them here. According to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , castor oil will likely cause uterine contractions and irritation. Although these may appear to be labor contractions, they are more likely the result of digestive distress than actual labor.
In fact, they go on to say that women who take oral castor oil are no more likely to go into labor than those who do not. However, one recent study found that there is a connection between taking castor oil and inducing labor. The study concluded that castor oil may induce labor within 24 hours if a woman is 40 weeks pregnant.
Researchers conducted the study using women in their 40th and 41st weeks of pregnancy, over a period of 5 years. A smaller study , this time from , found that Only 4. Evidence from this study suggests that castor oil may help induce labor. However, one study found no connection between taking castor oil and inducing labor. This study included over participants in week 40 or above of their pregnancy. Prepare your hospital bag and keep it handy. Seek medical consultation in case of any doubt.
Doctors have mixed opinion on the possible side-effects of consuming castor oil for inducing labour. Some of the likely side-effects are listed below:. There have been cases where women have experienced no side-effects. Therefore, it is suggested that you should consult your doctor before consuming castor oil. Some medical practitioners strongly recommend avoiding the use of castor oil during pregnancy. This may be because of some of the following reasons:.
Experts are divided on this issue, and more extensive research needs to be done. Some experts believe that castor oil can be used as a laxative during pregnancy while some are of the view that the laxative properties of castor oil not only affects the mother but equally effects the baby also.
If the meconium is inhaled entirely or even partially by the baby, it can block the airways of the baby and cause serious complications. Depending on how your pregnancy is progressing, castor oil during early pregnancy can be an option. Nevertheless, some of the following alternatives to castor oil can also be considered:. You can use any one or a combination of the above options after discussing your condition with your doctor.
Preferably, if there are no medical compulsions, the sensible thing to do is to wait for labour to ensue naturally. But if you still wish to use castor oil for inducing labour, it is always wise to consult your doctor first. It is best not to worry unnecessarily and focus more on preparing yourself for the arrival of your bundle of joy. Sign in. Forgot your password? Get help. Create an account. Password recovery. FirstCry Parenting. Stewed Peach Recipe March 9,
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