Is Castor Oil Safe For Labour Induction?

Add as a preferred source on Google

Castor oil has many uses. Its main use is as a purgative (to treat constipation). It stimulates the peristaltic movements of the intestines by causing irritation which results in bowel movements. However, it also causes loose motions, cramps, nausea and vomiting.

It is not a good idea to use castor oil for inducing labour as it has many side effects. It can make the mother sick. It causes intestinal cramps, dehydration, fetal distress, vomiting and loose motion in the pregnanat ladies.

Home Remedies To Cure Thyroid During Pregnancy

In ancient times it was used to induce labour as it causes contractions of uterus. Old midwives used castor oil when there was no other remedy to induce labour.

However, there is much advancement in medical science now-a-days which uses sophisticated methods or medicines to induce labour. Castor oil lags far behind as a choice for inducing labour these days because of its potential side effects both to the mother and baby.

Are Plastic Bottles Dangerous For Your Babies?

Here are some of the side effects of castor oil if used to induce labour.

Loose Motion And Dehydration
After having castor oil, the mother gets loose motions and cramps. These frequents visits to the loo makes the mother tired and exhausted. Since, water is also lost with stools, the mother also suffers from dehydration. This can cause much harm to the baby.

Cramps And Pain
Castor oil causes abdominal irritation which results in cramps. This may be unbearable for the mother as she already might be having mild labour cramps naturally.

Vomiting
Castor oil can also induce vomiting in mothers which can further contribute to dehydration. It can also cause problem during anaesthesia when the mother is being prepared for the delivery.

Complications During Labour And Delivery
There may be fetal distress. This means that the baby is compromised before labour or during the birth process. Use of castor oil may result in low oxygen levels which can result in the death of the fetus, if the baby is not delivered immediately. The mother feels decreased movement of the baby. Increased or decreased fetal heart rate is often seen. Increased acidity in foetal blood (lactic acidosis) will also be seen..

Meconium
Use of castor oil may causee the baby to have a bowel moment while still in the womb. This can be dangerous for both the foetus and the mother.