Is evening primrose oil ok to take to help ripen and thin out cervix?

[cleoteacher]

Had sweep and only. 1cm dialated. Been reading, on mostly american sites, that EPO can help thin out and ripen the cervix.

Is this right? Worked for anyone? Is it dangerous? These women seem to take it orally and insert 3/4 capsals at a time inside themselves.

[soundsystem]

I took it orally (1 a day) from week 39 and gave birth at 39+4 (very quick straightforward labour). Who's to say what would have happened if I hadn't though, might have been exactly the same! I couldn't see any risks if taking it at that time so thought it was worth a shot. Maybe best to check with your midwife just in case?

[cleoteacher]

Thanks. I am 40+1 so hopefully not too late. Couldn't find anything about risks online so think will give it a go tomorrow. Not sure about inserting it inside me though.

[Zsazsabinks]

It's worth a try! I did with DD2 and I think it helped. I think you can insert it too but I would be a little cautious if you've had a sweep today...

[SquidgyMaltLoaf]

My midwife told me to. Can't remember if it was one or two per day inserted. Didn't help me though, DD was 15 days late!