VBAC and EPO - do they mix?

[MelissaMBoys]

With ds#2 I used Evening primrose oil and he was born 5 days after I started it. All along I have had every intention of also using it with this pregnancy until I really started thinking about it today.

I can still see taking it orally - but I'm wondering about inserting it inside next to the cervix. Since using EP2 and the like can increase chances of uterine rupture during a VBAC, I'm wondering if the same might be true of the evening primrose oil? And should it be used cautiously especially due to the VBAC circumstances?

I realize that no one here is a health professional, I'm just very interested in what others might think - and perhaps any adverse side affects any other VBACers have had from using it.

Thanks so much, ladies - My plan was to begin using EPO again on Tuesday, but now I'm starting to wonder...

Melissa

[jenb]

Hey Melissa,

I did my own research on this and also tt my Midwives about it and I decided that it was safe to use both orally and vaginally. From everything that I have read, it doesn't stimulate labor, it only softens and prepares the uterus.

I am having a VBA2C.

Trying to find the info. that I found online...bbiab...

[oz's mommy]

Looking forward to hearing more, too! My dh told me this morning, "You know that stuff is contra-indicated for pregnancy?" (he read the bottle). I told him what it was for, and he said, "oh..." I've been taking it orally. Let's hope it helps!

[MelissaMBoys]

Well, ladies, check out Cynthia's reply on the "Ask a Midwife" forum. I think I may just pass on using it this time...

but I have another reason too. Here I have EPO from my last pregnancy left over in the cupboard and it hasn't expired yet. However, I just read today that you should keep it refridgerated and that it can go rancid. Well, it sure smells awful! I can't remember if it smelled that bad in the first place or not - there doesn't appear to be any mold or anything growing in the bottle, but I don't think I should take them if the pills are bad. I suppose if it made me sick it might kick labor into gear, but if I wanted it that bad I'd do castor oil!! LOL

Anyway, good luck to you gals if you plan to use it. I would just kick myself if something happened and it may have been preventable, KWIM?

Melissa

[miche]

I was advised to use it during my pregnancy. It didn't help, but I had a vbac without complications. Talk to your doctor about it!

[jennmomof1]

My midwife had me use it vaginally. She said it helps soften the cervix. Sex also does this. If you are worried about your bag of water breaking increase you vitamin C intake. Have an orange and some grapefruit daily.