Understanding Labor Pain & Cervical Dilation: What You Need to Know

Question
i am having labor pains and the doctor says not hard enough yet.  the baby is there and i'm 50-70% infaced and dialated 2-3.  i've heard that drinking castrol will help to speed up the process.  Is this true or what does it do exactly. thanks  

Answer
Hello Dwana. You are having very important practice contractions that are preparing your uterus and cervix for active labor. The more of these contractions you have, the shorter and easier your labor will be. You MUST relax and be patient- when they start up in the evening, have a very warm bath. If they are going to progress into active labor the bath will get them coming faster and stronger. If they the practice kind, they will settle down and you can sleep- which you need LOTS of. Castor oil should only be taken under the care of a midwife as there can be negative effects. It can be very unpleasant and I do NOT recommend it without a midwife's guidance. Hope that helps- Cheri.