Caster Oil Vs. Induction

[Chloe'sMama]

Hey Ladies-
I have a friend who will be 42 weeks on Monday. So far no signs of labor. Anyways, I am sure her OB will be pushing induction on monday, but was wondering if she should try caster oil first.

Questions-
What dosage?
Should she call her OB first to check? He doesn't sound really open to non medical things.
What should she expect?

Thanks so much!

[ein328]

I used castor oil, and it was very effective for me. I took the first dose around 2 pm and the second at 3 pm, water broke at 9 pm and I delivered dd at 1 am. I will preface this by saying that I was already 3 cm dilated and effacement was moving along nicely prior to this, and I firmly believe castor oil's effectiveness depends on how "ready" you body is. My process (per my CNM) was:
1. One tablespoon of castor oil (I mixed mine into 1/2 of a chocolate milkshake to mask the taste)
2. Wait 1 hour.
3. One more tablespoon of castor oil (again, mixed into the remaining 1/2 of the milkshake)

I was warned by my CNM about the possibility of diarrhea, but I didn't experience that- just (I think 2?) normal bowel movements. I did not think the process was more than a little uncomfortable and would definitely do it again if I needed a little push.

[alegna]

My ds was 43 weeks 5 days and I feel like I probably worked too hard to get him out at the end. I'd say neither and wait.

-Angela

[hotharmony]

I did castor oil at 41 weeks even last time. It worked for me to get my labor started.

I would try it if I where her. I was effaced like 80% but closed when this started.

Sleep all night try to get some good rest.
Take 1.5 TBSP during the first dose then wait for an hour or two
take another dose
Expect diarrhea and serious stomach ache
Rest before the diarrhea sets in and rest as much as possible all day

[Chloe'sMama]

Well, luckily she went into labor last night on her own. Still no baby, but at least it was on her terms. We will see how it all plays out.

Thanks ladies!

[Gena 22]

I took an ounce at 5AM, and another at 6AM. While taking the second dose my water broke. Intermittent labor (there were also some twin positioning issues, and I was a first timer.) Births at 10AM the next morning.

I consider it a success, but I did get dehydrated.

Good luck!