Castor Oil Induction

It is not uncommon to hear much talk of "induction" among pregnant and soon to be birthing mothers. Induction methods can include using medication like Pitocin to bring on labor or other techniques such as stripping of membranes or manually rupturing the bag of waters by the caregiver.

When I have a client who is hoping and preparing for a natural (unmedicated) birth and she finds herself in a "post due" situation, I often like to suggest to begin natural methods of induction in the couple of days prior to the scheduled medical induction. In addition to many other things I recommend, Castor oil is one of them.

Castor oil acts as a laxative to clean out the bowels which in turn can stimulate the onset of labor about 2-6 hours after ingesting it. Its effects are so great that I recommend it high on the list of methods to begin trying first. It is, however, not the most palatable of tastes and can have some uncomfortable side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. But, when taken with a juice cocktail or with crackers, it is manageable for many women.

Here is a recipe that you can try:

• 2 oz. Castor Oil mixed with 2 oz. Orange Juice and 1 tsp. Baking Soda

*Please note that I do not recommend this to anyone who has not reached 41 weeks of pregnancy.