Hello!

“Would like to ask if anyone has tried castor oil to induce labour at 41 weeks? and whther its worth it or just very messy? thanks”

Posted by anon, 18/05/2013

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  • Please DO NOT try this.


  • I wasn’t game, I’ve heard it can also induce the “runs” and I didn’t want to risk it…lol


  • Yes with my first child my mother in her wisdom after i was about 3 days late said try caster oil, so I did with orange juice to cut the taste, 1. is was disgusting 2. it did not work and over the course of a week I tried 3 times. My beautiful 9lb 7oz girl had to be bought on by the doctors 17 days after my due date. Thank goodness they don’t wait that long any more.


  • No.

    If you wish to induce, medically or otherwise, please consider the escalation of intervention and whether having the baby before your body is ready is *really* for you.

    – from someone who went all the way up the scale of escalation of intervention.


  • No and I wouldn’t use anything like that.


  • I think it’s all myths to be honest when baby wants to come then it’s time. I don’t think it’s natural to try & make it happen


  • I havent used it so have no first hand advice but have heard it can be very ‘messy’ at the other end


  • Maybe it was good back in the day but products have changed now sounds like the old wifes tale of eat vicks to cure a cold which was done back in the day but if were to eat it now it is very dangerous.


  • I was so close to trying castor oil but never did after i heard it was bad


  • I have heard it can be a little…messy at the other end, babies know what they are doing, when they are ready you will know!


  • no dont do it.. your baby will be here before you know it


  • Interesting advice below – hope if helped.


  • I also think it is an old wives tale, and it could even be dangerous.


  • I think it’s an old wives tale & not a particularly safe one at that. Despite the discomfort, it’s always safer for labour to start when the baby is ready.


  • I hope you found your answer


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