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Natural Birth
EPO - how and when to use it?
I bought some EPO today and looked it up online to see how they recommend using it, but the site doesn't even mention benefits during pregnancy (more so for PMS and menopause). It says to take 4-6 tablets daily orally, but a lot of sources say to insert the capsules. I'm planning to ask my doctor at my next appointment, but I was curious about how others have used it.
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Re: EPO - how and when to use it?
Here is some info I copy and pasted awhile back. I'm sorry I didn't save the original source, but I think someone posted it on mothering.com as info directly from their midwife.
How does it work?Primrose oil is an herbal supplement which provides your body with the building blocks (GLA and essential fatty acids) to make natural prostaglandins, which are responsible for softening cervical tissues and increasing flexibility in the pelvic ligaments. Like a vitamin for your cervix, evening primrose oil seems to enhance the complex system of biochemical messages which initialize labor, rather than simply causing contractions via bowel or uterine irritation.
Who should take this supplement?
? Women who are expecting their first baby
? Women who have previously gone past their due date
? Women desiring a VBAC
? Women anticipating induction of labor
Who should not take it?
? Women who are less than 37 weeks pregnant
? Women who have advanced cervical dilation (more than 3 cm)
How do you take it?
Primrose oil is available in the herbal section of most pharmacies and some grocery stores. It is available in 500mg, 1000mg, 1300mg, or 1500mg gelcaps.
Starting at 37 weeks, the recommended daily dose is 4500mg. You may choose from one of the following regimens, depending on the strength of the capsule you buy:
? 500mg: Take three capsules three times a day (total of 9 a day)
? 1000mg: Take one capsule in the morning and at noon, two capsules at night (total of 4 a day)
? 1300 or 1500mg: Take one capsule three times per day (total of 3 a day)
Is it ever too late to start primrose oil?
It is never too late to start; however, we have noticed the best results when women take it consistently for several weeks.
I'm using it orally now - 3 capsules twice per day. My capsules are 500mg. As of my last check I was about 50% effaced, so not sure if its helping or not, but that seems like a positive result!
I've heard that inserting them will help ripen more quickly, but it kinda freaks me out...i just don't think i can do it.