Castor Oil Labor - Think Again!

Using castor oil for inducing labor has been around for years, that's why a lot of people may recommend it. Recently though studies have shown it may not be the miracle that you're hoping for.

I know if you're overdue and just want your baby lying safely in your arms, then you're willing to try just about anything. A castor oil labor could be more trouble than it's worth.

Is castor oil really a miracle worker?

Castor oil will stimulate your bowels, which in turn will create prostaglandins. This hormone can help to stimulate the uterus, which in theory could create contractions. OK so far so good. Now let's look at the bad side of a castor oil labor.

Firstly it doesn't smell or taste too good, mixing it may help with this small problem, but the main problem with castor oil is that it can cause diarrhoea, vomiting and cramping. Do you fancy spending your whole labor stuck in the bathroom? Diarrhoea and vomiting can in turn cause dehydration which is extremely bad for you and your baby.

Contractions are bad enough on their own, without cramping and diarrhoea to go along side. The bad effects from the castor oil could carry on after the birth of your baby, meaning more time in the bathroom, and less time with the baby you've been so eager to hold!

So do you really want to try castor oil for inducing labor? If you still want to give it a go, please talk to your midwife first as she will be able to advise you on quantities and other details.

Safer methods to get things moving

There are safer methods if you really do want to try and induce labor naturally.

Acupressure is a newer method, and is getting some good reviews from overdue moms to be (certainly better than using castor oil for inducing labor!) Applying pressure (correctly) to certain parts of the body is believed to induce labor, not only that - but it can also be used for managing labor pain when things really get going. Have a closer look at an acupressure labor or inducing labor using maternity acupressure.

To have a look at some other methods of naturally inducing labor, including tea's, curry and sex! ;) click here.

I hope this has helped with your decision of whether to take castor oil (personally I would give this a miss!) and I would like to wish you the very best of luck with your labor :)

Return from castor oil labor to the childbirth page Or visit the New Baby and Beyond homepage.