Dear Tired:

Nine Months?  I can only imagine and empathize, but you're almost there.

It is quite smart of you to ask before you do something.  There are many myths out there about sex, pregnancy and health, especially in your age group.  Let us see if we can nip this one before it grows into a whopper.

I have not heard any evidence regarding evening primrose oil and labor induction. The only alternative treatment I have heard for this purpose is black cohosh, which is sometimes used for hot flashes. Black cohosh is sometimes utilized to help facilitate labor induction, but not for initiating induction. Otherwise, there is nothing in the alternative or scientific medical literature regarding alternative treatments for this purpose. The only natural way to bring about labor is to let nature do its thing.  The baby will be born when it is ready or your doctor will help it along if needed.

You should be speaking with your regular doctor prior to taking any remedy during pregnancy, herbal, over the counter or otherwise. Also be sure to advise the delivery team of any herbal remedies and vitamins you are taking.  Some herbs like St. Johns Wort and vitamin /herbal mixtures can cause major problems when combined with anesthesia including seizures and worse.

Good luck and enjoy motherhood.

Jason

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