X-Post: Can EPO cause rupture of membranes

[calendula]

I'm posting this here as it's my DDC and in the VBAC forum.

I'm currently 37 weeks and considering starting EPO but I hesitate. One of the factors leading to my previous c-section was that my waters broke fully at onset of labor - baby was posterior, and it was impossible to turn him. About 2 days before that I had inserted 1 or 2 (can't remember) EPO capsules vaginally and possibly the night before. I don't think I took them orally - it's almost 6 yrs so hard to remember. I just wonder if it's possible that the EPO brought on the ROM? I don't know enough about the effects of EPO and also whether it could have worked so quickly considering most people take it for weeks.

Does anyone have any info on the relation of EPO to ROM?

Or was it totally coincidental and the benefits would be outweigh the risks of ROM? Of course since I'm planning a VBAC I'm actually hoping ROM doesn't happen till well into labor.

Thanks.

[robertandenith]

someone ask a question about epo and they mention something about rom in here http://answers.yahoo.com/question/in...7154432AAtL6Oq

[meredyth0315]

I'm 36 weeks and just started taking EPO orally for my HBA2C. I did so much research on the PROM, and it's not been concluded, but there *seems* to be a slight increase of PROM with EPO. I don't know that I would use it vaginally if I had PROM last time, but then again it may not be connected. I know if you're prone to seizures or on certain meds it is contraindicated. Here are a few links I found:

http://www.salisbury.edu/nursing/her...imrose_oil.htm

http://www.drgreene.com/21_235.html

http://chinesetherapeutics.org/moirasbirth.html

http://www.aafp.org/afp/20030515/2123.html

I don't think that there's anything concrete, and most doctors seem to think anything herbal is dangerous. I would talk to your mw/ OB and see what they suggest. Each birth is different and EPO may not have the same effect. Good luck to you!!!

[robertandenith]

Originally Posted by meredyth0315

I don't think that there's anything concrete, and most doctors seem to think anything herbal is dangerous.

but then again they use cydotec to ripen cervix and for me, that's IS a dangerous medication as opposed to EPO. I wouldn't worry.

[meredyth0315]

Originally Posted by robertandenith

but then again they use cydotec to ripen cervix and for me, that's IS a dangerous medication as opposed to EPO. I wouldn't worry.

I think I'd slap someone if they even said Cytotec around me!!! I wouldn't worry too much about the EPO either. Nature is safer

[alicia9178]

I did EPO for less then a week inserted vaginally and I had rupture of membranes...it prevented us from having our homebirth because I was 36 weeks and 2 days and I had to be 37 weeks, but we still successfully VBAC'd. I have had ROM with 3 of my 6 kiddos....2 of the 2 I used EPO so I think it can increase the chances of ROM.
Alicia

[megsy]

I've been inserting it since I was 34 weeks and nothing yet ...

[~Megan~]

EPO causes softening of the cervix. It can help your cervix along in dilation and effacement which then could possibly lead to prom. If you are concerned don't use it until you are full term and you are sure your baby is in a good position.