EPO and RRLT per OB?

Question

I was hoping to use both types of capsules this pregnancy as it sounds like it really helps your body prepare for labor.

When I asked my OB about it at my 37 week checkup, she discouraged me saying it has been known to cause babies to pass meconium and causes fetal distress.  Didn't ask her about the red raspberry leaf capsules but online sources say it can act as estrogen and harm the pregnancy.

So my question is, why do midwives suggest these if they're unsafe?  And has anyone had experience or know anyone who has a negative impact from taking notes them?

I'm 38 weeks and was considering inserting the EPO now, thinking maybe that will only impact my cervix and not make it to baby.  Any thoughts??

Answer

I've never ever heard them to be unsafe. Quite the opposite.

Answer

I don't know about epo, but rrl is one of a few herbs to be clinically proven safe, scientifically that is, for pregnant women. It is not a hormone mimic! Red clover can be, and should not be taken in pregnancy, but RRL is totally safe. 
In either case, it's worth asking a reputable herbalist, rather than an OB or the internet. 
That said, avivaromm.com is the blog of Dr Aviva Romm, she was a midwife and herbalist for many many years, and then did her md/phd at Yale. She details herbal safety very well.

Answer

I used both with my last pregnancy and plan to use them again this time. The only thing with the epo capsules is they should not be inserted vaginally unless your midwife or herbalist says to. Usually epo is used to soften a cervix that has previously had a biopsy or other surgery that may have created scar tissue.  Epo can cause your membranes to rupture early, mine did and it was a bit tricky to get contractions going when I wasn't exactly early! I had been using epo capsules vaginally from 37 weeks and my water broke at 38+3. 
As for the rrl use it! Drink the tea or take the capsules! It makes your uterus more efficient, I had a labor and delivery nurse tell me to drink several cups of the tea everyday.

EPO and RRLT per OB?

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