Do not try to induce labor before 40 weeks of pregnancy. Many women use EPO without incident, but an early study found that the oral intake of EPO could trigger delivery problems or complications. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists defines a full-term pregnancy as 39 weeks or longer.

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What is evening primrose oil? Does it work? Pros and cons. In folk medicine, pregnancy support groups, and online chat rooms, many people claim that evening primrose oil can start labor, either by inducing contractions or helping to soften and thin the cervix. Some people may find that this method works for them, but scientific research has not shown that evening primrose oil has any substantial effect on how quickly someone goes into labor.

More research is needed to know for sure if evening primrose oil works. Some research studies have looked at the effects of evening primrose oil during labor, with the following results:. The current body of research suggests that more evidence is needed before people use evening primrose oil as a natural labor induction option. The NIH state that evening primrose oil may increase the risk of bleeding in people who are taking a blood-thinning medication called warfarin.

This could mean it also increases the risk of hemorrhage during birth. It could also endanger people who give birth via cesarean delivery.

No formal studies have assessed what dosage, if any, is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. This means that even if evening primrose oil does improve pregnancy or labor outcomes, there are no current guidelines about how much people should use for an effective dose.

Though evening primrose oil may be safe for most women, there is no evidence to suggest that anyone needs to use this natural remedy. There are other methods to induce labor, and those who have gestational diabetes may find greater relief from more mainstream treatments, such as dietary changes and insulin therapy. People can try various natural remedies in the last stages of pregnancy to help induce labor. Many traditional remedies have not yet been tested scientifically, so their effectiveness is not yet known.

However, any drug, food, or herbal remedy a woman uses to induce labor can affect the baby. It is therefore essential to look at a range of research and talk to a doctor or midwife before trying to induce labor. Traditional remedies for which the evidence is limited or contradictory include :. Castor oil, like evening primrose oil, may not be effective.

A literature review suggests it may increase the risk of complications. According to the same report, blue cohosh may also be harmful. Herbal remedies, such as evening primrose oil, can be a tempting option for women who want a safe and speedy labor, especially if they want to avoid surgical birth or medical interventions. But natural remedies can be just as risky as taking medications. They are also less well-tested, and the government does not control quality or regulate herbal supplements.

Be sure to keep your line open for a return call. It is important to talk to the physician or midwife on call before you make the trip to the hospital. EXCEPTION: If you are experiencing a serious complication such as bright red, heavy vaginal bleeding like a period, then just call, give your information, and go directly to the hospital. Many women experience low back pain with contractions during labor. Lingering pain between contractions, while less common, can also occur.

Fortunately, maternal positions to ease back pain can also make it easier for a baby to rotate into an ideal position. This position provides immediate help for low back pain and lets gravity help a baby to turn, if needed. It has the additional benefit of being THE BEST maternal position for good blood flow to the placenta, bringing lots of oxygen to baby.

Gentle, rhythmic pelvic rocks or side-to-side swaying of the hips might help, too. If desired, you can roll the ball back and forth slightly, creating a gentle movement. Having a labor support person apply pressure with their hands to your lower back during contractions can ease some of the pain.

You will need to guide them as to how much pressure feels right and just where they need to push. Two tennis balls in a sock with a knot in the top can be a handy tool to massage and to apply counter pressure at the same time.

The sock just keeps the balls from rolling off the bed and bouncing around the room! A warm or cold pack being pressed against the sore area may feel good. Helpers can reach your back easily when you are on hands and knees. Getting in a tub can provide buoyancy to a pregnant belly that is soothing for a sore back. If only a shower is available, you can get on hands and knees with folded towels to cushion the knees and let the water fall right onto your lower back.

Leaning over a birth ball in the shower is another option. Induction means starting labor with physical techniques or medication or a combination of these. Cervical ripening medication may be given as an initial step, if needed. Intravenous pitocin is the most well known method of stimulating contractions. Medical or prenatal complications, however, may make it safer to induce labor earlier. Your doctor or midwife will review the evidence-based recommendations for your individual circumstances.

We want you to be involved in developing the safest plan of care for you. Even so, not all elective inductions progress as anticipated. Prenatal visits are an opportunity to thoroughly discuss risks and benefits with your doctor or midwife.