Has anyone talked to a doctor about the use of castor oil?

Question

I am almost 40 weeks pregnant and I am getting a little anxious to have this guy. I probably won't try castor oil because I am too scared, but has anyone ever talked to a doctor about using castor oil to begin labor? I don't trust anything I have found on the internet because some say it is safe and some say it isn't. I would call my doctor, but he is on vacation! I would like to know what some of your doctors have said about castor oil or if anyone has any experience with it. Thank you.

Answer 1

I have not asked my doctor about it, but I have thought about using it, I really don't think I will though. It can make you very sick and can also make your baby have their first bowel movement before they are born, which isn't good. I wouldn't recommend it.

Answer 2

I asked my doctor, it will make you sick and give you the runs BAD! it also puts the baby in distress which will make your baby have a bowel movement in utero and if the baby carries it into his/her lungs then it could give them a serious infection! please don't try it.

Answer 3

I didn't even need to talk to him about it.

One of the first things he told me, when I approached the 3rd trimester, and the topic of labor came up, was " Don't even think about castor oil"

I didn't really have to question him, I'd never try it anyway.

If my OB says it's not safe, then I'm willing to stand by that.

Plus diarrhea is not fun, and I'd never willingly induce it, as that is a common effect of the oil.

He said the only way it can stimulate contractions, is by irritating the bowel so much, it causes uterine contractions.

I think I'll leave it to nature, childbirth will be bad enough, without an irritable bowel to worry about!