How Much Castor Oil to Use to Induce Labour?
Women start to consider the methods of natural labour induction when the pregnancy is nearing its end. Among these home remedies, castor oil has been one of the most discussed ones, occasionally recommended by the elderly, midwives, or through online conversations. But before trying it, it is very important to understand its safety, how it works, and the proper dosage of castor oil for labour.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know: how much castor oil for labour, when to take it, how safe it is, who should avoid it and why medical supervision is essential, especially for mothers receiving care at trusted centres like SCI IVF, one of the Best Fertility Centre in Gurgaon offering the Best IVF Treatment in Gurgaon.
What Is Castor Oil and Why Is It Used for Inducing Labour?
Castor oil is a natural oil that comes from the seeds of the castor plant and it has been used as a laxative for a long time. The main idea that supports the application of castor oil for labour induction is that when the intestines are stimulated, it may also have a stimulating effect on the uterus, thus contractions would be triggered.
Castor oil's application relies more on traditional ways than on strong clinical proof, and the outcome is very different among the women who use it.
How Does Castor Oil Work for Labour Induction?
Castor oil functions through the process of irritating the intestines, and hence, strong bowel movements occur. The digestive stimulation can at times result in uterine tightening as the intestines and uterus have similar nerve pathways.
There are a few small studies that claim it is helpful in inducing contractions, while others do not support the notion. Due to the uncertainty of the outcome and the possibility of severe side effects, doctors generally do not suggest it without supervision.
How Much Castor Oil to Use for Labour Induction?
Most of the studies available and midwife-based guidelines say that if a doctor allows it, then the dose should be between 30-60 ml. This amount is considered the standard quantity for the herbal induction methods.
Nevertheless, the correct dosage may fluctuate according to:
- General health of the woman
- Stage of pregnancy
- Laxatives tolerance
- If she has had a previous vaginal delivery
It is to be stressed:
- An overdose of 60 ml enhances the probability of dehydration along with severe diarrhoea.
- The use of castor oil is totally forbidden unless there is a medical approval.
- It should just be looked at after the completion of the 40 weeks of pregnancy, and only if recommended.
How Long After Taking Castor Oil Did Labour Start?
The question “How long after taking castor oil did labour start?” is a common one among women.
The answer is that the timeline is very wide:
- Contractions could occur in 1-6 hours for some women
- Others may be entirely indifferent
- Certain studies pointed to the beginning of labour in 24 hours, but this did not happen every time.
The response is also influenced by:
- The cervix is being worked on the way
- Different people’s reactions.
- Single birth vs. several births
Don’t forget that contractions can happen, but they are not an indicator of being in active labour.
Who Should Avoid Using Castor Oil to Induce Labour?
Castor oil is not safe for all, and in some cases, its use should be completely prohibited, such as at:
- Pregnancies at high risk
- Mothers expecting twins or more
- Pregnancies through IVF (more monitoring needed)
- Infants not in the right position (head down)
- If you are under 40 weeks pregnant
- If you are suffering from hypertension, have bowel disorders, or are dehydrated
- If your doctor has recommended against natural induction methods
Especially in IVF pregnancies, castor oil should not be used without the doctor's supervision.
Possible Side Effects & Risks of Castor Oil
Though castor oil might bring on contractions, it frequently brings along discomforts like:
- Severe diarrhoea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dehydration
- Abdominal cramping
- Irregular contractions
- Risk of fetal distress from dehydration
Such risks are the reasons why a majority of obstetricians opt for medically supervised induction over home remedies.
When to Seek Medical Help
You should stop at once and reach out to your physician if you notice the following symptoms:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Strong contractions
- Fetal movement changes
- Vaginal bleeding
- Intense abdominal pain
- Dehydration
Induction of labour should invariably be under the watchful eye of the medical professionals to guarantee the safety of both mommy and baby.
Conclusion
Castor oil has traditionally been used for labour induction for a long time now, but its effects are still uncertain and hence should be treated with caution. If you are considering using castor oil, it is a good habit to first consult your doctor about the dosage of castor oil for labour and the safety of your pregnancy.
For reliable guidance, safe pregnancy monitoring, and excellent maternal care, SCI IVF Hospital, a facility recognised as the Best Fertility Centres in Gurgaon and offering the Best IVF Treatment in Gurgaon, is always there to give you complete assistance during your entire voyage of childbirth.
FAQs
1. Is castor oil safe for inducing labour at home?
Only in case your doctor gives you the green light. It can lead to dehydration and severe diarrhoea, hence it should not be considered lightly.
2. What is the safe dose of castor oil to trigger labour?
Normally 30–60 ml, but with doctor supervision only.
3. What is the time frame for castor oil to work once ingested?
The onset of labour might be in the range of 1-24 hours; nonetheless, it is not a universal case.
4. Can castor oil lead to false labour?
Definitely, it can result in cramps that are similar to contractions but do not actually come to real labour.
5. Is castor oil safe in the case of IVF pregnancies?
On the contrary, IVF pregnancies are highly monitored and hence would be unsafe. Always check with your doctor first if you want to use any type of induction method.
