Evening primrose oil (EPO) is a natural oil derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant, Oenothera biennis. Traditionally, EPO is believed to help “ripen” the cervix, making it softer and thinner, which could potentially aid dilation and effacement during childbirth. EPO contains fatty acids that are thought to be precursors to prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that play a role in cervical changes.
Methods of Using Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil can be used in two primary ways for labor preparation: orally and vaginally. For oral consumption, EPO is typically taken in capsule form. These capsules are swallowed with water, often alongside food to minimize any potential stomach upset.
Alternatively, EPO capsules can be inserted vaginally. To do this, an individual would lie down in a comfortable position, often with elevated hips, to facilitate insertion. With clean hands, a capsule is gently pushed high into the vagina, near the cervix. Some individuals might do this before bed, allowing the capsule to dissolve overnight.
When to Start and Dosage Guidelines
The typical timing for beginning evening primrose oil use is in the late third trimester of pregnancy, generally around 36 to 38 weeks. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it is a common approach. For oral use, a starting dose might be around 500 milligrams once or twice daily. Some sources suggest a daily oral dosage range of 500 to 2000 milligrams.
When using EPO vaginally, a common recommendation is to insert one gelcap, typically 500 or 1000 milligrams, deep into the vagina at night. Some studies have explored a daily vaginal dose of 1000 milligrams starting from the 38th week of pregnancy until birth.
Effectiveness and Safety Precautions
The scientific understanding of evening primrose oil’s effectiveness for labor induction or cervical ripening is mixed. Some research suggests that vaginal application of EPO might increase Bishop scores, a measure of cervical readiness for labor, particularly in first-time birthers. However, other studies have found no significant effect on cervical ripening or speeding up labor, especially with oral use. Some findings even suggest a potential link to longer labor or an increased need for interventions like Pitocin or vacuum extraction.
Regarding safety, evening primrose oil can have potential side effects, although generally considered mild. These may include gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhea, and mild headaches. More significantly, EPO has a blood-thinning effect, which could increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions like placenta previa. There is also a suggestion of increased risk for bleeding or bruising in newborns of mothers who used EPO in the week before birth. Due to the limited and inconsistent research, it is strongly advised to consult with a healthcare provider before considering the use of evening primrose oil for labor preparation.