The Gentle Prep Tincture is an ideal alternative to, or companion to, the Birth Vibes tea.

It is a blend of gentle herbs traditionally regarded as "partus preparator" herbs, believed to support readiness for labour and birth.

It is suitable to use from 37 weeks onwards, and especially after 40 weeks gestation.

These herbs have a long history of supporting optimal nutrition and hormonal balance, nourishing and toning the uterus, ready for labour.

And now come all the disclaimers (you knew that was coming) ...

The Gentle Prep Tincture is not meant for inducing labour.

I am sure you already know *All The Things* about the pros and cons of medical, or herbal, induction. 

So instead I will leave with you a few links for your information and leading.

Personally, I believe in waiting and patience. I think the medical system induces too many women, especially first time mothers. I think too many women are placed under undue and unnecessary pressure and worry towards the end of their pregnancies. I think we do less walking and activity than our forbears. In some cases, our nutrition is worse, and stress and pollution and endocrine disruptors in our environment, affecting hormonal regulation, is worse. So a lot of factors come into play when a woman is feeling stress at the end of her pregnancy, thinking, oh gosh, I've got to get into labour naturally, or they'll induce me!!!

But you are not here to read my doula views on the pros and cons of induction.

So back to the Gentle Prep Tincture.

These lovely herbs do have a wonderful and ancient track record of supporting a timely start to labour, progressing contractions and easier childbirth. Your own research across the net will confirm this.

INGREDIENTS:

Black Cohosh (Actaea raceomosa)

Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Wild Yam (Dioscora villosa)

A few situations in which the Gentle Prep Tincture would not be suitable:

- if you have high blood pressure, avoid Blue Cohosh

- if you are already taking Raspberry Leaf in significant quantities, e.g. capsules or copious amounts of tea

- you know your body is very sensitive to and responsive to herbs (for example, you get excessive Braxton-Hicks contractions if you drink a cup of Raspberry Leaf Tea)

- if you have ever had a pre-term labour or it runs in the family

- if you have any significant risk factors that require close medical supervision

- if you have a history of post partum haemorrhage

SUGGESTED USE:

Begin taking the Gentle Prep Tincture approximately 3 weeks before your estimated due date. (Note: starting it sooner won't make your baby come sooner. Nature doesn't work that way! Your baby will come when you, and baby, are ready!)

Weeks 1 and 2: Take 2.5 ml twice daily, in a little water or juice, before meals

Week 3 and thereafter: Take 2.5 ml three times daily in a little water or juice, before meals.

Follow with a large glass of water each time.

Maintain this dosage until labour commences.

This product must be used with caution and a sense of personal responsibility. It is strongly suggested that you check with your midwife or chosen care provider BEFORE you commence taking the Gentle Prep Tincture.

Other tips for comfort and readiness towards the end of pregnancy:

- walk several kms daily

- check out Spinning Babies and the significance of Optimal Foetal Positioning

- hip circles on hands and knees

- swimming

- massage

- sex

- Chiro and Osteo care (especially have a read about The Webster Technique)

- Acupressure & acupuncture

- Medjool dates

- Evening Primrose Oil

- cut down on sugar and up your leafy greens