If you’ve reached 40 weeks of pregnancy without signs of labor, you may have heard about several natural methods to help induce labor. There are indeed a few ways to encourage this process. One such option is the use of Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) with the aim of initiating labor.
1. What is Evening Primrose Oil?
This oil is derived from the evening primrose plant and is rich in linoleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, and vitamin E. EPO capsules, which are available over-the-counter, can be found in most pharmacies or health and herbal stores.
It is sometimes used in alternative therapies for a range of health issues, including neurological disorders, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, and rheumatoid arthritis (synovial joints inflammation).
2. Should Evening Primrose Oil be Used During Pregnancy?
It is not recommended to use Evening Primrose Oil during pregnancy, as its safety has not been conclusively established.
You may have heard that taking Evening Primrose Oil during pregnancy can reduce the risk of preeclampsia (a type of high blood pressure during pregnancy). However, studies have not proven this effect. Additionally, if you are considering using Evening Primrose Oil postpartum (after childbirth) to induce labor, there is no evidence to support that it is effective in this regard.
Evening Primrose Oil is a plant extract that has been used for centuries as a supplement. It is believed to alleviate a range of issues, from breast pain to premenstrual symptoms to skin disorders. However, Evening Primrose Oil is not an approved pharmaceutical product, as there is insufficient evidence to prove its effectiveness.
If you have been using Evening Primrose Oil to manage a health issue, particularly as an alternative treatment, it's essential to exercise caution, especially during pregnancy. However, it may be safe to continue using Evening Primrose Oil after giving birth.
Evening Primrose Oil is also commonly used as a dietary supplement. It is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid. Essential fatty acids are substances that the body needs but cannot produce, so we must obtain them from food. Additionally, Evening Primrose Oil is high in gamma-linolenic acid, which is used by the body to produce hormone-like chemicals, such as prostaglandins, which are crucial for various bodily functions.
During pregnancy, it is advisable to get essential fatty acids from natural food sources, such as seeds and oily fish, rather than relying on Evening Primrose Oil supplements. You can safely consume two servings of oily fish, such as tuna, per week.
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According to doctors in the U.S., Evening Primrose Oil may help soften the cervix and promote its dilation (effacement). Other studies suggest that it may help shorten labor time. This is attributed to the linoleic acid found in EPO, which can trigger a prostaglandin-like response in the body. Doctors and midwives may guide you on using Evening Primrose Oil based on your individual health condition. However, there is insufficient official research on EPO to conclusively prove its effectiveness in labor induction.
3. How is Evening Primrose Oil Safely used during pregnancy?
Evening Primrose Oil is available in capsule form, which can be taken orally or inserted vaginally. While there is no clearly defined standard dosage, for pregnant women, it is generally recommended to take between 500 to 2000 milligrams daily after the 38th week of pregnancy. If you choose to use EPO, always start with a low dose to monitor your body's response.
4. Some potential side effects of using Evening Primrose Oil
When used in appropriate amounts for a short time, Evening Primrose Oil is generally considered safe. However, it can cause the following side effects:
- Stomach pain
- Headache
Do not take Evening Primrose Oil if you have a bleeding disorder. If you're planning surgery, stop taking it at least two weeks before. Avoid it if you have epilepsy or schizophrenia, as it may increase the risk of seizures. Evening Primrose Oil can also raise the risk of pregnancy complications. It can interact with medications such as:
- Blood thinners, antiplatelet drugs, herbs, and supplements that reduce blood clotting can interact with Evening Primrose Oil. Combining them may increase the risk of bleeding.
- CYP3A4 substrates: Use Evening Primrose Oil with caution if you're taking medications affected by these enzymes, such as lovastatin (Altoprev).
- Lopinavir and ritonavir (Kaletra): This combination medication, used to treat HIV, may have its effects slowed by Evening Primrose Oil.
- Phenothiazines: Taking Evening Primrose Oil with medications used to treat severe mental and emotional disorders can increase the risk of seizures in some individuals.
For more detailed information, please contact the hospitals and clinics within the Vinmec Healthcare System nationwide.
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Articles refer to sources: mayoclinic.org, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, babycentre.co.uk, healthline.com
