Teas That May Help to Induce Labor
Childbirth is an exciting and yet nerve-wracking experience for expecting moms. If your due date is approaching, it is natural to begin to feel some anxiety. Though labor induction is an option, some women may wish to try some natural remedies prior to the medical intervention. This article will look at the teas that may help to induce labor.
Raspberry Leaf Tea
One of the more popular herbal teas for induction of labor is raspberry leaf tea. It is thought that raspberry leaf tea may:
- Strengthen the uterus and encourage contractions.
- Help to regulate contractions.
- Shorten labor.
When preparing raspberry leaf tea, it is recommended to start consuming it in the later stages of pregnancy (after 33 weeks). It is also important to start drinking small amounts and slowly increase the dosage by drinking 1-2 cups per day.
Nettle Tea
Nettle tea is another herbal tea that is thought to help bring on labor. In particular, it is thought to work by promoting the production of prostaglandins, which are important for the induction and progression of labor. As with raspberry leaf tea, start drinking nettle tea in the late stages of pregnancy and slowly increase the dosage.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is known for its calming properties, however it is thought to also have labor-inducing properties. In particular, some women swear that it worked for them, especially when combined with parsley tea.
Bottom Line
Though there is limited scientific evidence to support the effects of these teas on labor, many women swear by them, claiming it helped to induce labor. Talk to your doctor prior to trying any of these teas, as some may interfere with certain medications you may be taking prior to delivery or may be harmful in other ways.
