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DESCRIPTION
Premature labor is labor that begins before the 37th week of pregnancy. Most pregnancies last 38 to 42 weeks; your due date is 40 weeks after the first day of your last period. Premature birth frequently follows premature labor.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Preterm labor is any labor that occurs between 20 weeks and 37 weeks of pregnancy. Prior to 20 weeks, it is considered a miscarriage (spontaneous abortion). If you start to have any of these symptoms between 20 weeks and 37 weeks of pregnancy, follow the instructions in the section below What to do if you have symptoms of preterm labor.
Do not let anyone tell you that these symptoms are "normal discomforts of pregnancy"! If any of them (you do not need to have all of them) happen before your 37th week of pregnancy, you need to do something about it. Here are the symptoms:
Uterine contractions at regular intervals that begin before the fetus is mature, usually before the due date of delivery. Contractions are when your abdomen tightens like a fist every 10 minutes or more often. Low, dull backache. Abdominal cramps that feel like your period, with or without diarrhea.
Change in vaginal discharge. Passage of bloody mucus (sometimes).
A sensation of pelvic pressure. The feeling that your baby is pushing down.
Flow of fluid (amniotic fluid) from the uterus (sometimes). This may occur with a gush or may only a continuous watery discharge.
Some degree of vaginal bleeding or spotting.
MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Miscarriage
MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Miscarriage, Habitual
MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Normal Labor & Delivery
CAUSES
In most cases, the exact mechanisms that cause premature labor are not well identified. Many obstetric, medical and anatomic disorders are associated with premature labor.
Preterm birth is any birth that occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy. It is the cause of many infant deaths and lingering infant illnesses in the United States. Every pregnant woman needs to know about preterm labor and birth - why it happens and what she can do to help prevent it.
Preterm birth occurs in about 12 percent of all pregnancies in the United States, often for reasons we just do not understand. A normal pregnancy should last about 40 weeks. That amount of time gives the baby the best chance to be healthy. A pregnancy that ends between 20 weeks and 37 weeks is considered preterm, and all preterm babies are at significant risk for health problems. The earlier the birth, the greater the risk.
You might have read in the newspapers about babies who are born really early and do very well. But it is important for you to know that those babies are the exceptions. Babies who are born very preterm are at a very high risk for brain problems, breathing problems, digestive problems, and death in the first few days of life. Unfortunately, they also are at risk for problems later in their lives in the form of delayed development and learning problems in school. The effects of premature birth can be devastating throughout the child's life. The earlier in pregnancy a baby is born, the more health problems it is likely to have.
There are no easy answers as to why preterm labor happens. Stress might play a part for some women, personal health history or infection for others, or smoking or drug use for others. Researchers are studying how various factors contribute to the complex problem of premature labor and birth.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Preterm labor and delivery can happen to any pregnant woman. But they happen more often to some women than to others. Researchers continue to study preterm labor and birth. They have identified some risk factors, but still cannot generally predict which women will give birth too early. Having a risk factor does not mean a woman will have preterm labor or preterm birth. It just means that she is at greater risk than other women. Three groups of women are at greatest risk of preterm labor and birth:
- Women who have had a previous preterm birth.
- Women who are pregnant with twins, triplets or more.
- Women with certain uterine or cervical abnormalities.
If you have any of these three risk factors, it is especially important for you to know the signs and symptoms of preterm labor and what to do if they occur.
LIFESTYLE-ENVIRONMENTAL RISK FACTORS
Some studies have found that certain lifestyle and environmental factors may put a woman at greater risk of preterm labor. These factors include:
- Late or no prenatal care.
- Exposure to the medication DES.
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
- Use of mind-altering drugs, e.g., narcotics, psychedelics, hallucinogens, marijuana, sedatives, hypnotics or cocaine. Use of Medications contraindicated for use during pregnancy.
- Domestic violence, including physical, sexual or emotional abuse.
- Injury to the uterus.
- Lack of social support.
- Stress.
- Long working hours with long periods of standing.
MEDICAL RISKS
Certain medical conditions during pregnancy may increase the likelihood that a woman will have preterm labor. These conditions include:
- Previous premature labor.
- Urinary tract infection, especially kidney infection (pyelonephritis).
- Sexually transmitted infections (Vaginal infections) that spreads to the uterus.
- Possibly other types of infections.
- Illness of the mother, including preeclampsia/eclampsia (toxemia), high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes mellitus.
- Clotting disorders (thrombophilia).
- Bleeding from the vagina. Abnormalities of the placenta, such as placenta previa or placenta abruption.
- Excessive amniotic fluid.
- Premature rupture of the membranes (PROM) also known as the "water breaking".
- Abnormal shape or size of the uterus (uterine abnormalities).
- Weak cervix (incompetent cervix or cervical abnormalities).
- Hormone imbalance.
- Large fetus or more than one fetus.
- Congenital fetal birth defects.
- Being pregnant with a single fetus after in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Poor nutrition, especially associated with weight loss. Eating disorders such as Bulimia and Anorexia
- Being underweight before pregnancy.
- Obesity.
- Adolescent mothers.
- Short time period between pregnancies (less than 6-9 months between birth and the beginning of the next pregnancy).
Researchers also have identified other risk factors. For instance, African-American women, women younger than 17 or older than 35, and poor women are at greater risk than other women. Experts do not fully understand why and how these factors increase the risk that a woman will have preterm labor or birth.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
You can help prevent preterm birth by learning the symptoms of preterm labor and following some simple instructions. The first thing to do is to get medical care both before and during pregnancy. If you do have preterm labor, get medical help quickly. This will improve the chances that you and your baby will do well.
- Obtain good prenatal care throughout pregnancy.
- Do not smoke, use mind-altering drugs or drink alcohol during pregnancy.
- Eat a normal, well-balanced diet during pregnancy. Take prenatal vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements recommended by your midwife.
- Do not use medications of any kind, including non-prescription drugs without advice from your midwife or health care provider.
- If you have a weak cervix, which is sometimes evident before pregnancy, get medical advice about a minor operation to strengthen the cervix.
- Rest more and decrease activity in the 3rd trimester, especially if you have blood spotting or irregular contractions.
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Checklist
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Coping Tips
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Exercise Tips
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Family Tips
YOGA POSTURES FOR THREATENED EARLY DELIVERY:
Inverted yoga postures - headstand and shoulder stand - are recommended for women carrying twins who are threatening to make an early appearance.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
In about 50 percent of cases, the premature labor ceases, either with treatment or spontaneously.
Labor can often be stopped with treatment to allow more time for the fetus to mature. However, if the membranes have ruptured or the placenta has separated from the uterus, labor must proceed sometimes by cesarean section. The outcome depends on fetal maturity.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Premature infant.
Uterine infection after delivery.
Fetal death.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnostic tests may include amniocentesis to determine fetal maturity and to check for infection inside the uterus that could be causing the symptoms. Ultrasound is used to determine fetal weight, age, growth and position (although this is known to be somewhat inaccurate). Laboratory blood and urine studies on the mother are used to check for infection.
TREATMENT
Hospitalization and treatment may be necessary for any underlying risk factors (infections, dehydration). Treatment will depend on the cause, if known.
Preterm labor can happen to any woman: Only about half the women who have preterm labor fall into any known risk group. About 12 percent of births (1 in 8) in the United States are preterm. Babies who are born preterm are at higher risk of needing hospitalization, having long-term health problems and of dying than babies born at the right time.
Three groups of women are at greatest risk of preterm labor and birth:
- Women who have had a previous preterm birth.
- Women who are pregnant with twins, triplets or more.
- Women with certain uterine or cervical abnormalities.
Preterm labor may sometimes be stopped with a combination of medication and rest. More often, birth can be delayed just long enough to transport the woman to a hospital with a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and to give her a drug to help speed up her baby's lung development.
Treatment with a form of the hormone progesterone may help prevent premature birth in some women who have already had a premature baby.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU ARE IN LABOR PREMATURELY:
Call your midwife or health care provider and let her know what is happening. You may be advised to go to the hospital right away if you think you are having preterm labor. The signs of preterm labor include:
- Contractions (your abdomen tightens like a fist) every 10 minutes or more often.
- Change in vaginal discharge (leaking fluid or bleeding from your vagina).
- Pelvic pressure - the feeling that your baby is pushing down.
- Low, dull backache.
- Cramps that feel like your period.
- Abdominal cramps with or without diarrhea.
Your midwife or health care provider may tell you to:
Come into the office or go to the hospital. If you are planning a homebirth, your midwife may make arrangements to come to your home and check you there.
Stop what you're doing. Rest on your left side for one hour.
Drink 2-3 glasses of water or juice (not coffee or soda).
If the symptoms get worse or do not go away after one hour, call your midwife or health care provider again or go to the hospital. If the symptoms go away, relax for the rest of the day. If the symptoms stop but come back, call your midwife or health care provider again or go to the hospital.
You do not need to have all the symptoms to have preterm labor. Take action even if you have only one.
If you have already had a premature baby, ask your midwife or health care provider if progesterone treatment might help prevent another early birth.
MEDICATION
Medications sometimes slow or stop labor if they are given early enough. This can prevent some of the worst health problems a preterm baby has. Only if a woman receives medical care quickly can drugs be helpful. Knowing what to look for is essential.
- Treatment with a form of the hormone progesterone may help prevent premature birth in some women who have already had a premature baby. Medication used to stop labor include terbutaline, ritocrine and magnesium; less frequently used are indomethacin and nifedipine.
- Antibiotics to fight infection, if it develops. Antibiotics may also be used to help protect the fetus from infection.
- Drugs called corticosteroids, if given 24 hours before birth, can help the baby's lungs and brain mature. Corticosteroid therapy may be considered to accelerate fetal lung maturity.
- Sedatives and pain relievers are used if needed.
ACTIVITY
Complete bed rest is necessary once signs of premature labor begin. Discontinue work or other physical activities. Avoid any sexual activity.
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Checklist
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest, Coping With It
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Exercise
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Family Tips
DIET
Once labor begins, drink only clear liquids until after the delivery.
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information & Guidelines
BENEFICIAL DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS TO PREVENT MISCARRIAGE
Raspberry Leaf helps strengthen the uterus and may be taken as a tea. Red Raspberry has long been established as a female herb. The leaf tea is used by pregnant women to help prevent complications and make delivery easier. It has also been known to reduce menstrual bleeding and relieve symptoms of diarrhea. In addition to preventing complications in pregnancy, reducing menstrual bleeding, and diarrhea, Red Raspberry is used to relax uterine and intestinal spasms. It is known to strengthen uterine walls, and promote healthy nails, bones, teeth and skin. Red Raspberry can diminish the effects of morning sickness, false labor pains, hot flashes, and menstrual cramps. Using Red Raspberry after childbirth helps decrease uterine swelling and reduces postpartum bleeding. Small children can drink Red Raspberry tea for vomiting, dysentery, and diarrhea. The warm tea also soothes sore throats, mouth ulcers, bleeding gums, and canker sores. Pour one cup of boiling water over 1 or 2 teaspoons of dried Red Raspberry leaf, steep for 10 minutes, and then sweeten to taste. Drink 2 to 3 cups daily while pregnant.
False Unicorn root may help when the cervix is too loose to hold the pregnancy as a powerful tonic. Use 3 drops of the tincture four to five times daily, beginning a month before conception and continuing for the entire first trimester. False Unicorn helps strengthen the uterus. False Unicorn is an herbaceous perennial, native to the Mississippi area. Its leaves are from 2 to 8 inches long, spoon shaped, and wider at the top than at the base. The flowers are white and starry or greenish-white and can reach 2 feet or longer depending on whether they are male or female flowers. For centuries women have used False Unicorn for menstrual and uterine problems, and morning sickness. Native American women reportedly chewed the root to prevent miscarriages. False Unicorn should not be confused with another member of the lily family commonly known as "true unicorn root." They are different. False Unicorn contains hormone-like saponins which help make this herb a ovarian and uterine tonic. It also has an adaptogenic or balancing effect on sex hormones, helping to relieve many disorders of the reproductive tract, menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome related to hormonal imbalance. And this herb has bitter properties that helps it act as a tonic on the liver and digestive tract. Many herbalists recommend False Unicorn for reducing menopausal symptoms, and treating ovarian cysts. It has also been used to normalize hormone levels following oral contraceptive use. This root balances sex hormones in males as well as females. It can also be used for endometriosis, ovarian cysts, menstrual irregularities and pain, premenstrual syndrome and prostate disorders. False Unicorn is used to treat venereal diseases, particularly gonorrhea. It is also used as a diuretic and to rid the intestinal tract of worms. This herb can also stimulate the appetite and relieve the nausea and vomiting that accompany pregnancy. False Unicorn comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For using a decoction, take 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the root in 1 cup of boiling water. Drink 3 times a day. For using a tincture, take 2-4 ml, 3 times a day. If using False Unicorn for the "normalizing" effect on the female reproductive system in regulating the menstrual cycle, or promoting an absent cycle, note that it can take several months before there is a significant effect on the cycle. For other formulations read product label directions.
Wild Yam helps improve hormonal balance for maintaining pregnancy. Various species of Wild Yam grows throughout North and Central America, and Asia, and has been used to treat indigestion, coughs, morning sickness, gall bladder pain, menstrual cramps, joint pain, and nerve pain. The primary, but incorrect use of Wild Yam as a source of women's hormones is based on the misconception that Wild Yam contains progesterone and DHEA. Wild Yam contains chemicals that chemists can use only as a starting point to manufacture progesterone. This herb does not contain progesterone. Some Wild Yam products have progesterone in them, but it is a synthetic progesterone that has been added to the product. Do not discount the use of Wild Yam as it can still be used to relax muscle spasms, reduce inflammations, and promote perspiration. This herb can be used for menstrual cramps or pain, menopausal symptoms, rheumatic conditions, and gallbladder complaints. Wild Yam is also used to treat colic, gallbladder disorder, hypoglycemia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), kidney stones, neuralgia, and rheumatism. Wild Yam comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. Wild Yam Extract is used for a wide range of ailments including many female problems and to relieve the pain of child birth. This plant is useful as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, cholagogue, diaphoretic and vasodilator. It alleviates many of the symptoms of menopause and PMS such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. It is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, gall bladder complaints, spasmodic cramps, painful menstruation, and in small doses is especially helpful in treating the nausea of pregnant women. For best results, read and follow product label directions.
Prenatal Vitamin Supplements provide general nutrition, which is very important for fetal development and to support pregnancy.
Folic Acid helps prevent birth defects and supports pregnancy. Folic acid is necessary precursor for the manufacture of genetic material like RNA and DNA. Folic acid also assists in the growth and repair of tissues and in the conversion of fats and amino acids into other useful products in the body.
Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids strengthens blood vessels. Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides powerful antioxidant protection, strengthens collagen and maintains white blood cell function. Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.
Vitamin E helps balance hormones. Alpha-tocopherol is the most active form of vitamin E in humans, and is a powerful biological antioxidant. Vitamin E is a major antioxidant and the primary defense against lipid peroxidation. Antioxidants such as vitamin E act to protect your cells against the effects of free radicals and oxidative damage. Free radicals are potentially damaging by-products of the body's metabolism. Free radicals can cause cell damage that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
HERBAL SUGGESTIONS TO PREVENT MISCARRIAGE
Black Haw and Crampbark are the two herbs most commonly used by European physicians, Native Americans and modern herbalists to calm the uterus.
BLACK HAW PRODUCTS
Black Haw root bark is taken as a miscarriage preventative. Drink one or two cups of tea or half cup of the infusion daily as soon as you are pregnant. Black Haw may be used throughout the entire pregnancy. Black Haw is part of the honeysuckle family. It is a deciduous spreading shrub with a reddish-brown bark that grows in the northern part of the United States, but in the South, it is a small tree. Since the early 1800s, women used a tea made from Back Haw bark to soothe menstrual pain. It was also thought to help prevent miscarriage and ease the pain that follows childbirth. When combined with false unicorn root, it works well in preventing miscarriage. This plant contains salicin, a pain reliever that acts like aspirin. Black Haw also has antispasmodic, analgesic, astringent, sedative, cardiac tonic, uterine and muscle relaxant, nervine, diuretic, and tonic properties. This plant is sometimes erroneously called cramp bark, and though Black Haw's effects are much stronger than those of cramp bark, the two are used alternately in treating various conditions. Black Haw comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For making a tea with Black Haw bark, use 1 oz. of herb per one pint of freshly boiled distilled water. Steep for 10-15 minutes, and strain. Drink one cup 2-3 times a day. For other formulations and products it is best to read and follow product label directions.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Black Haw, Bulk Organic Herbs
Kalyx: Black Haw Bark, Herbal Extracts Plus, 600 mg, 90 VCaps
Kalyx: Black Haw Bark Powder (Viburnum prunifolium), Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb.
Kalyx: Black Haw Bark Powder, Herbal Extracts Plus, 1/4 lb.
HerbsPro: Black Haw Extract, Herb Pharm, 1 fl. oz.
HerbsPro: Black Haw Extract, Eclectic Institute Inc, 2 fl. oz.
HerbsPro: Black Haw Extract, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz.
House of Nutrition: Black Haw Extract (Viburnum prunifolium), Herb Pharm, 8 fl. oz.
TakeHerb: Black Haw Extract, Eclectic Herb, 2 fl. oz.
CRAMP BARK PRODUCTS
Cramp Bark is commonly used in herbal medicine as a nerve sedative and anti-spasmodic in asthma and hysteria. It is also used to relieve muscle tension in the intestines, airways, uterus, and striated muscles in the limbs or back. It can be taken internally or applied externally for those conditions. Cramp Bark, as its name suggests, is used to treat conditions characterized by muscular cramps and spasms, particularly in the pelvic region, including menstrual cramps, bladder spasm, colic, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and spastic colon. It is said to protect against miscarriage and help with threatened miscarriage, relieve the symptoms of menopause. It is also taken to relieve tension headaches, muscle tension, anxiety, and arthritis. Although it has been used for centuries by Native Americans, and is still recommended by herbalists today, scientists need to catch up. Cramp Bark has also been effective in treating arthritis where joint weakness and pain have caused the muscles to become almost rigid. It has also been used in treating high blood pressure and other circulatory conditions. Cramp Bark comes in extract, tincture, and elixir forms. It is important to read label directions before use.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Cramp Bark, Bulk Organic Herbs
Kalyx: Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus), Cut & Sifted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb.
Kalyx: Cramp Bark, Frontier Bulk Herbs, Cut & Sifted, 1 lb.
Kalyx: Cramp Bark Powder, Herbal Extracts Plus, 1/4 lb.
Kalyx: Cramp Bark Extract, Health & Herbs, 2 fl. oz.
HerbsPro: Cramp Bark Comfort Formula, Relaxing Female Reproductive Support, Planetary Herbals, 1600 mg, 60 Tabs
HerbsPro: Cramp Bark Extract, Herb Pharm, 1 fl. oz.
HerbsPro: Cramp Bark Extract, Eclectic Institute Inc, 2 fl. oz.
HerbsPro: Cramp Bark Extract, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz.
House of Nutrition: Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus), Herb Pharm, 8 fl. oz.
TakeHerb: Cramp Bark Powder, Wildcrafted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb.
TakeHerb: Cramp Bark Cut & Sifted, Wildcrafted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb.
Red Raspberry Leaf has a long history of use in pregnancy for threatened miscarriage. Standard dosage: 2 capsules three times daily.
False unicorn is prized by herbalists for its adaptogenic effect on the ovaries (normalizes function).
Wild Yam (Dioscorea Villosa) may benefit those women who are threatening miscarriage due to stimulation to the adrenal glands as well as the antispasmodic effects of the herb. Wild Yam root is the source material for hormonal birth control pills. It contains glycosides from which the body can manufacture the hormones progesterone and cortisone, which are needed to maintain the pregnancy. The infusion is the strongest preparation. Take 2-4 ounces of infusion every half hour. Results should be evident by the second dose. The tincture is less effective and may cause nausea or vomiting. Use 10 drops every half hour as needed.
OTHER HELPFUL TIPS & HERBAL AIDS TO PREVENT THREATENED MISCARRIAGE:
Along with bed rest and relaxation, take vitamin E (up to 2000 IU a day) during the crisis period.
Alcohol (shot of whiskey or other spirits) relaxes the smooth muscles and can be used to slow or stop uterine contractions if sipped when cramping is felt. Intravenous alcohol is still used in hospitals to help forestall threatened miscarriage.
Lobelia herb is used in two ways: it will aid the miscarriage if the fetus is weak or malformed, but prevent it if the fetus is healthy and strong. Take the leaf and seed tea in sips every few minutes throughout a full hour. After an hour's rest, repeat. Lobelia tea causes nausea or vomiting in some women. The tincture is usually less nauseating. Take no more than 15 drops in a small glass of water as often as every 15 minutes, for several days, if needed.
For bleeding near term from possible abruption of the placenta, take 1500 IU vitamin E (3 doses of 500 IU), 50,000 IU vitamin A (2 doses of 25,000 IU), 6,000 mg of vitamin C (6 doses of 1,000 mg), 50 mg zinc (with food) daily for up to 2 weeks or until the pregnancy is stabilized. Although the vitamin E is supposed to "glue" the placenta back onto the uterus and hold it until the pregnancy is full term, however, large doses of vitamin E taken within 1 week of term may cause abnormal adhesion of the placenta to the uterus.
THREATENED MISCARRIAGE BREW
1 tablespoon dried Black Haw root bark or Cramp bark
3 tablespoon dried Raspberry leaf
10 drops Wild Yam root tincture
10 drops False Unicorn root tincture
60 drops Lobelia herb tincture
Put herbs in quart jar and add four cups of boiling water. Steep until cool enough to drink. Add tinctures to one cupful of tea and drink. If contractions continue for more than 30 minutes, add 60 drops of Lobelia tincture to a second cup of tea. Drink a cup every 3 hours, adding tinctures as needed, until miscarriage no longer threatens. Increase the effectiveness of the brew by resting in bed and taking 500 IU of vitamin E every six hours.
These remedies are found in Susun Weed's Wise Woman's Herbal "Childbearing Year". All herbal and nutritional supplements are available from our merchant vendors below (see merchant banners) or from the product links above. Not all available products are listed on this page. For more selection, click on merchant links and do a product search for the supplement you are looking for.
MISCARRIAGE SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Supplements and products for miscarriage, the loss of a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks.
BLUE COHOSH SUPPLEMENT
Blue Cohosh is used to regulate the menstrual flow and for treating suppressed menstruation.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Blue Cohosh Root & Powder, Wildharvested, Bulk Organic Herbs
Kalyx: Blue Cohosh, Cut & Sifted, Wildcrafted (Caulophyllum thalictroides), Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb.
Kalyx: Blue Cohosh Powder, Wildcrafted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb.
Kalyx: Blue Cohosh Root Extract, Starwest Botanicals, 1 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Blue Cohosh Extract, Health & Herbs, 2 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Blue Cohosh Root Extract, Starwest Botanicals, 4 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Blue Cohosh Extract, Health & Herbs, 8 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Blue Cohosh Root 10:1 Extract, Herbal Extracts Plus, 600 mg, 90 VCaps
HerbsPro: Blue Cohosh Extract, Alcohol Free, Natures Answer, 1 fl. oz.
House of Nutrition: Blue Cohosh Root, Gaia Herb, 4 fl. oz.
House of Nutrition: Blue Cohosh Root, Solaray, 500 mg, 100 Caps
CAYENNE SUPPLEMENT
Cayenne Pepper contains beta-carotene; beta-ionone, citric acid, hesperidin, imonen, lutein, and quercetin just to name a few. It also contains capsaicin, which reduces pain and inflammation. When combined with other herbs, Cayenne Pepper helps increase their effectiveness by helping them enter the blood stream faster. Capsaicin can also stimulate and then desensitize the warmth detectors in the hypothalamus gland so that a drop in body temperature is evident. This enables natives in hot southern climates like Central and South America and Africa, to tolerate the heat a lot better than we would. Cayenne Pepper has been known for its ability to aid in digestion, improve circulation, and reduce or stop bleeding from stomach ulcers. Taken internally it stimulates circulation and induces sweating to break a fever. Some native people of Thailand believe that eating Cayenne everyday helps reduce blood cots. Herbalists recommend it to treat colds and infectious diarrhea, arthritis and rheumatism. There is scientific evidence that suggests adding Cayenne Pepper to meals boosts vitamin C levels and revs up the metabolism. This pepper is also used with lobelia to help soothe nerves. It is beneficial for the heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, spleen, and stomach. In naturopathic medicine, Cayenne Pepper is combined with lemon juice, and salt to relieve even the worst sore throat pain for up to 4 hours. It also fights viral infection. When applied topically in a lotion or salve Cayenne works to soothe muscle aches and pains associated with arthritis, rheumatism, backache, strains and sprains. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Capsaicin for pain caused by shingles, an adult disease that is caused by the virus that causes chicken pox in children. Such over-the-counter (OTC) creams as Zostrix or Heet contain capsaicin and are applied externally to treat rheumatic and arthritic pains, cluster headaches, diabetic foot pain, fibromyalgia, and post-herpetic nerve pain. These creams usually contain 0.025-0.075 percent capsaicin. In 2002 there was some research done that helped to determine Capsaicin's pain relieving effects. Creams that contain the compound lowered pain in arthritis sufferers' hands by 40 percent when used four times a day. A study done for pain from long-term shingles found that 77 percent of the people had reduced pain after using the cream for four months. The study also said that Capsaicin containing ream is less expensive and safer than other painkillers used for the same conditions. Cayenne Pepper comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For taking capsules, the recommended daily dose is 1 capsule 2 to 3 times a day. Adults and children two and above can safely use it topically 3 to 4 times a day. For treating a sore throat, combine the juice of one-half lemon or lime with one full tablespoon of salt. Stir both into one-half cup of lukewarm distilled water. Stir in one-quarter teaspoon of Cayenne pepper. Gargle as needed, but do not swallow.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Cayenne, Organic Bulk Herbs
Kalyx: Cayenne, Thompson Nutritional, 515 mg, 60 Caps
Kalyx: Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annum), Nature's Herbs, 1,350 mg (40,000 STU), 100 Caps
Kalyx: Cayenne Pepper, Nature's Answer, 450 mg (0.25% Capsaicin), 90 Caps
Kalyx: Cayenne Chili Powder, Herbal Extracts Plus, 600 mg (90,000 HU), 90 VCaps
Kalyx: Cayenne Chili Pepper (Capsicum) 10:1, Herbal Extracts Plus, 90 VCaps
Kalyx: Red Cayenne Chili Pepper Powder (160,000 HU), Starwest Botanicals, Certified Organic, 1 lb
Kalyx: Red Cayenne Chili Pepper Powder (90,000 HU), Frontier Spices, Certified Organic, 1 lb
Kalyx: Red Cayenne Chili Pepper Powder (30,000 HU), Frontier Spices, Certified Organic, 1 lb
Kalyx: Cayenne Pepper Extract (Capsicum annum), Starwest Botanicals, 1 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Cayenne Extract (Capsicum annum), Health & Herbs, 2 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Cayenne Pepper Extract (Capsicum annum), Starwest Botanical, 4 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Cayenne Extract (Capsicum annum), Health & Herbs, 8 fl. oz.
TakeHerb: Cayenne, Extra Hot (100,000 HU), Nature's Way, 450 mg, 100 Caps
TakeHerb: Cayenne, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 250 Caps
TakeHerb: CapsiCool Controlled Heat, Stomach Gentle, Nature's Way, 390 mg, 100 Caps
TakeHerb: Cayenne Oil, Health Herbs, 2 oz.
TakeHerb: Cayenne Ointment, Deep Heating Balm, Dr. Christopher's Original Formulas, 2 oz.
HerbPro: Cayenne Capsicum Tincture, Nature's Answer, 2 fl. oz.
FOLIC ACID SUPPLEMENT PRODUCTS
Folic acid also assists in the growth and repair of tissues and in the conversion of fats and amino acids into other useful products in the body. Folic Acid is important during a woman's reproductive years and especially during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
Kalyx: Folic Acid, Schiff, 400 mcg, 250 Tabs
Kalyx: Folic Acid, FoodScience Labs, 800 mcg, 60 VCaps
Kalyx: Folic Acid, Thompson, 800 mcg, 30 Tabs
Kalyx: Folic Acid, TwinLab, 800 mcg, 100 Caps
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Country Life, 800 mcg, 100 Tabs
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Country Life, 800 mcg, 250 Tabs
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, FoodScience of Vermont, 800 mcg, 60 Caps
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Jarrow Formulas, 800 mcg, 100 Caps
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Natures Way, 800 mcg, 100 Caps
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Thompson Nutritional Products, 800 mcg, 30 Tabs
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Now Foods, 800 mcg, 250 Tabs
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Olympian Labs, 800 mcg, 100 Caps
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Source Naturals, 800 mcg, 500 Tabs
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Source Naturals, 800 mcg, 1000 Tabs
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, Source Naturals, 800 mcg, 200 Tabs
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, TwinLab, 800 mcg, 100 Caps
HerbsPro: Folic Acid, TwinLab, 800 mcg, 200 Caps
HerbsPro: Active B-12 Di-Bencozide with Folic Acid Sublingual, Country Life, 3000 mcg, 30 Lozenges
HerbsPro: Active B-12 Di-Bencozide with Folic Acid Sublingual, Country Life, 3000 mcg, 60 Lozenges
HerbsPro: Vitamin B-12 with Folic Acid Sublingual, Country Life, 500 mcg, 100 Lozenges
House of Nutrition: Folic Acid Liquid, Pathway, 100 mcg/drop, 4 oz.
House of Nutrition: Folic Acid, Dr.'s Advantage, 8 oz.
TakeHerb: Folic Acid, Nature Made, 400 mcg, 250 Tabs
MANGANESE SUPPLEMENT PRODUCTS
Manganese, also called the "brain mineral," is important in the utilization of all mental facilities and functions.
Kalyx: Manganese, TwinLab, 10 mg, 100 Caps
HerbsPro: Manganese, Natural Chelated, TwinLab, 10 mg, 100 Caps
HerbsPro: Manganese Chelate, Source Naturals, 15 mg, 100 Tabs
HerbsPro: Manganese Chelate, Source Naturals, 15 mg, 250 Tabs
TakeHerb: Chelated Manganese, Solgar, 8 mg, 100 Tabs
TakeHerb: Manganese, Nature's Plus, 50 mg, 90 Tabs
TakeHerb: Manganese Acetate Liquid, Hanna's Vibropathics, 1 oz.
House of Nutrition: Manganese, Nature's Life, 25 mg, 100 VTabs
House of Nutrition: Chelated Manganese, Carlson Labs, 20 mg, 250 Tabs
House of Nutrition: Manganese Chelated, Kals, 12 mg, 100 Tabs
House of Nutrition: BodyBio/E-Lyte 6 Manganese Trace Minerals, 4 oz.
House of Nutrition: Manganese Trace Minerals #6, BodyBio, 2.5 mg, 2 oz.
MISCARRIAGE PREVENTIVE SUPPLEMENT
The Miscarriage Extract-Tincture was created to help prevent miscarriage. Provides the necessary nutrients for women going through miscarriage. Supports proper uterine function. Use only in problem pregnancies. Use 6-12 drops liquid extract-tincture in juice, water, under the tongue, or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. Shake well. Store in cool, dark place. Keep out of reach of children.
Kalyx: Miscarriage Preventive Extract, Health & Herbs, 2 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Miscarriage Preventive Extract, Health & Herbs, 8 fl. oz.
Kalyx: Miscarriage Preventive Extract, Health & Herbs, 16 fl. oz.
TakeHerb: Miscarriage Extract, Health Herbs, 2 fl. oz.
TakeHerb: Anti-Miscarriage Formula With False Unicorn & Lobelia, Dr. Christophers Formulas, 100 VCaps
TakeHerb: Shatawari (Asparagus racemosa), Bazaar of India, 330 mg, 100 VCaps
Shatawari is a cooling, calming, nourishing and purifying herb which has a special affinity with women though it is also excellent for men. It is rich in Vitamin A, nutritious starches, and hormone analogues. Shatawari tones, cleanses, nourishes, and strengthens the female reproductive organs and so is traditionally used for PMS, amenorrhea, dysmenorrheal, leucorrhea, menopause, and pelvic inflammatory disease like endometriosis. It also supports deeper tissue and build blood and so it helps to remove infertility, prepare the womb for conception, prevent miscarriage and acts as a post-partum tonic where it helps to increase lactation and normalize the uterus and the changing hormones. So many of these benefits abound because Shatawari contains phyto-estrogens, hormones that normalize estrogen levels and also play an important role in preserving women's long term health. Clinical studies suggest that plant estrogen's are better than drugs for hormone balancing since they do not produce negative side effects such as uterine abnormal cell growth. This gentle herb will promote an easier balanced life. For men it is a nutritive tonic similar to ginseng, and an aphrodisiac which increases erection strength and sperm count12 and decreases spermatorrhea. Because Shatawari is a gentle herb which regulates growth, is a systemic tonic, and is calming, it is considered, along with Ashwagandha and Brahmi, to be excellent for children. It is also recommended for seniors because it soothes the systemic dryness which is part of the natural aging process. For post-menopausal women it is especially good when taken with a cup of saffron milk. It has a strong rejuvenating, nurturing, and stabilizing effect on excessive air, gas, dryness and agitation in the body and mind. As such it is traditionally used for nervousness, anorexia, insomnia, hyperactive children, and people who are underweight. Due to its cooling nature it is used for genital herpes, chronic low grade fever, chronic skin disease, hemorrhoids, hyperactivity, stomach ulcers, chronic hepatitis, gonorrhea, and to cool and purify the blood. This wonderful plant is so useful that is considered in Ayurveda to be the Compassionate queen of herbs.
RELATED BOOKS - NATURAL PROGESTERONE CREAM THERAPY
Natural Progesterone Cream (Keats Good Health Guides)
Natural Progesterone Cream: A Safe Alternative To Conventional Hormone Replacement Therapy, By C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D. : In this Keat's Good Health Guide, Dr. Norman Shealy answers all your questions about natural progesterone cream, a viable and safe alternative to synthetic hormone replacement therapy.
RELATED BOOKS - WISE WOMAN HERBAL CHILDBEARING YEAR
Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, Wise Woman Series Book 1, By Susun Weed
This is a complete herbal pharmacopoeia for dealing with every problem that might arise before, during and after pregnancy and childbirth. Simple, safe, remedies for pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, newborns. Includes herbs for fertility and birth control.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member has symptoms of premature labor. Call your midwife immediately. This is an emergency! If you are planning an out-of-hospital birth, you may need to be transported to a medical facility, depending upon just how early you are in your gestational dating. Follow your midwife's or health care provider's instructions. If the symptoms get worse, or do not go away after one hour, call your midwife or health care provider again or go to the hospital. If the symptoms go away, take it easy for the rest of the day. If the symptoms stop but come back, call your midwife or health care provider again or go to the hospital.
When you call your midwife or health care provider, be sure to tell the person on the phone that you are concerned about the possibility of preterm labor. The only way your midwife or health care provider can know if preterm labor is starting is by doing an internal examination of your cervix (the bottom of your uterus). If your cervix is opening up (dilating), preterm labor could be beginning.
You and your midwife and/or health care provider are a team, working together to have a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby. Your team works best when both of you participate fully, so your knowledge about preterm labor can be essential in helping to prevent a preterm birth. Talk to your health care provider about all of this, and be sure to keep all of your prenatal care appointments. Preterm birth is one of the complications of pregnancy that health care providers are working hard to eliminate. Your participation in this effort is just as important as theirs!
During pregnancy, you think you have a urinary tract infection (UTI).
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) & Pregnancy
After delivery, you have abdominal pain, chills and fever, headache, muscle aches or a bad-smelling vaginal discharge.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
PREGNANCY RELATED LINKS
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Pregnancy Information & Survival Tips
MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Pregnancy Index
MoonDragon's Pediatric Information Index
MoonDragon's Parenting Information Index
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Manufacturers & Distributors
See all our merchant banners below for products, remedies and supplements recommended on this web site.
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
If you see a suggested Amazon product "not there" as indicated by an orange box with the Amazon logo, this only means the specific product link has been changed by Amazon.com. Use the "click here" icon on the orange box and it will bring you to Amazon.com and you can do a search for a specific product using keywords and a new list of available products and prices will show. Their product and resource links are constantly changing and being upgraded. Many times there are more than one link to a specific product. Prices will vary between product distributors so it pays to shop around and do price comparisons.Educational materials and health products are available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
GOLD CROWN PREMIUM NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS
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MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Nutrition Basics Index
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