Foods That Speed Up Birth
There are many myths on this subject and it has been heard many times that there are certain types of foods that speed up childbirth.
Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence to support this idea, but a pregnant woman can try certain types of foods to see if she can speed up the process as it begins to approach.
Is there then any possibility that certain types of food will accelerate the birth?
The women who consider themselves experienced in this say yes. There are also other women who have not tried yet but who would like to do so.
In this article, we will provide you with some “recipes” if you would like to try them yourself.
Aromatic plants and spices
Many people believe that plants such as basil, oregano, thyme, parsley, anise and even cayenne pepper speed up childbirth. However, most of these are forbidden to eat during the pregnancy itself as they can cause miscarriage.
There is a possibility that these herbs and spices speed up childbirth, but given the above, you should of course check with an expert first.
Castor oil
The myths surrounding castor oil are quite morbid, so it’s understandable if you’ve a little hesitant to try. The oil is produced from a seed that is toxic, but the oil itself has medicinal properties.
It is believed that castor oil can speed up labor by getting the internal muscles to start moving.
Spicy food
It is advisable not to eat spicy foods during pregnancy as this can cause stomach acids and other stomach problems.
Spicy foods are on the list of foods that speed up childbirth, but there is still no scientific evidence that it has any real effect.
Pineapple
This fruit has many properties. Some mothers claim that it can speed up labor because it contains an enzyme called bromelain that can soften the cervix.
This may be true, but the levels of bromelain are too low to have any real effect. You have to eat large amounts of pineapple to get any noticeable effect.
Raspberry leaves
Raspberry leaves are mostly used to prepare relaxing teas, as their relaxing effects can help reduce the stress that occurs at the end of pregnancy. If you take this tea, the uterus may also relax.
Garlic
Garlic has been considered to be able to accelerate childbirth but it has not been proven.
A plant called Cohosh
This plant is not so common with us, but in North America it is available as a tea that is said to be able to help at birth.
However, this theory has no scientific backing, so it is recommended that you talk to your doctor.
To think about before taking plants that accelerate birth
As we have previously mentioned, there is no scientific basis to indicate that these plants have such an effect. It has also been shown that it is not always safe to take them when you are pregnant.
When the situation is so uncertain, it may be best to limit how much you take them, and to avoid taking them completely when you have received an indication that they can be dangerous when you are pregnant. Alternative medicine is generally not recommended for pregnant women due to the unnecessary risks that this entails.
It is a personal decision to use these foods or not, but we recommend staying on the safe side.
Pineapple, for example, can not be eaten too much, while you should cut down on chocolate.
It is important that you do not risk your own or the child’s health. Take it easy and wait for the right time instead of looking for means to speed up the birth.
