When you are pregnant, it is important to watch what you eat and drink. It is equally as important to check with your obstetrician before taking any herbal supplements because some of them can pose a danger to you and your baby. Black cohosh often is used as a hormone treatment for symptoms like hot flashes, mood disruptions and vaginal dryness. Simon Mills and Kerry Bone report in their book "The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety" that black cohosh sometimes is used during labor, but should not be taken during pregnancy.
Might Induce Labor
Black cohosh sometimes is used to stimulate labor, particularly if a woman has gone past her due date without going into labor on her own. Mills and Bone report that about 45 percent of midwives say they have used black cohosh with their patients to get labor started. Preventing early labor is an important part of pregnancy because your baby needs each week of your pregnancy to grow and prepare for birth. Black cohosh might induce premature labor.
Might Cause Miscarriage
A miscarriage is the loss of your baby before 20 weeks' gestation. Having a miscarriage can be a painful and emotional event, and taking every possible step to prevent it will increase your odds of a healthy pregnancy. Holly Phaneuf notes in her book "Herbs Demystified" that taking large doses of black cohosh during pregnancy increases your risk of having a miscarriage.
Might Cause Vaginal Bleeding
Vaginal bleeding that occurs outside of your normal menstrual cycle or while pregnant is a reason to see your doctor immediately. Vaginal bleeding while pregnant can signal many problems, such as miscarriage, premature labor or that your baby is in possible distress. Black cohosh while pregnant can cause vaginal bleeding, which might lead to complications with your pregnancy. Vaginal bleeding also can cause you to panic and begin to expect the worst even if nothing ends up being wrong.
Can Cause Multiple Side Effects
As with any medication or herb, black cohosh can lead to a variety of uncomfortable side effects that can impact the health of your pregnancy. Stomach upset is the most common complaint, which can interfere with the absorption of nutrients you and your growing baby need. Vertigo is another side effect that is potentially dangerous while pregnant. Experiencing vertigo can cause you to lose your balance and fall, which can pose a threat to your unborn child. Headache, dizziness and heaviness in your legs are additional possible side effects.
References
- "The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety"; Simon Mills and Kerry Bone; 2005
- MayoClinic.com: Black Cohosh
- "Herbs Demystified"; Holly Phaneuf; 2005
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