• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Pregnancy Q&A

Herbs and Pregnancy Q&A: The Safe Way to Discontinue Herbs in Pregnancy

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 17, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Most of us have heard the warnings, “Don’t take herbs into pregnancy!”  Along with avoiding alcohol, certain prescription medications, and illicit drugs, most herbs should be avoided in pregnancy as well.

So, what should you do if have been following an herbal program and find out you are pregnant? Should you stop taking the herbs suddenly?  Can herbs cause you to miscarry? Can herbs harm a developing fetus?  Pregnancy happens a lot around here; we want you to handle the situation with ease and the know-how to move forward with a healthy, full-term pregnancy!

Important: In some cases, a woman will choose to continue herbs and supplements into pregnancy while under the care of a skilled herbalist, midwife, natural healthcare practitioner or doctor. Please always find a qualified healthcare practitioner to work with before choosing to continue herbs into pregnancy.

1. Q: Can herbs cause a miscarriage if they are stopped suddenly?

A: Potentially.  Some herbs may elicit a hormone-like effect, or have an action on the hormones in the body, the effects of which can quickly wear off after stopping the herb. If you have been taking herb/s and you are still taking it/them in pregnancy, you need to plan how to wean off of that herb slowly, over time, so as to not disrupt the natural hormonal cycle of the pregnancy. Suddenly stopping some herbs in pregnancy may potentially cause hormonal disruption, which could lead to miscarriage.

A good way to wean off of an herb or herbal blend is to take less and less each day, over a week.

  • If you are taking herbs in a capsule form, you could open the capsule, dump a little out and then close it back up and then take it.  Do this each day until you are no longer taking it.
  • If you are taking a tincture (liquid extract), take fewer drops each day.
  • Tablets will potentially need to be cut in half.
  • Infusions or decoctions will need to be cut down in cups. So, if you are drinking 3 cups a day, cut down to two cups for a few days, then to one and so on.

If you have a history of recurrent miscarriage, it is especially important to seek guidance for weaning off of herbs.  Special considerations need to be made whenever there is a history of progesterone deficiency, uterine weakness, recurrent miscarriages, or other health related issues that may affect pregnancy.  Seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, someone to help guide you through this transition.

2. Q: Can herbs harm my unborn baby?

A: Some herbs, when taken in high amounts therapeutically or long-term, could potentially harm your baby when taken in pregnancy. To be honest, there is little research on the subject and most information comes about when a problem arises. For example, a baby born is born with an abnormality and through research it is found that the mother had taken herbs in pregnancy. These cases are then documented. The herb is noted as a potential risk to pregnancy. But, typically this never happens.

Most women do not want to be part of human pregnancy trials, that is why there is limited research on the subject.  In fact, most medications are not tested for safety in pregnancy.  In general, doctors suggest they all be avoided when possible. Better to be safe than sorry is the general rule of thumb, in most cases.

Some information comes from animal studies, mostly on rats.  Researchers use this information to help determine if an herb is safe in pregnancy or not.  The problem with most of these studies is that the researchers give the rats concentrated, excessive amounts of the herb or an isolated part of the plant intravenously.  The animals are given the herb throughout pregnancy.  When a negative result on the animal fetus is shown, the herb will be deemed unsafe for pregnancy. Realistically though, no human being is going to take an herb the way the animals in studies are given herbs.

Before choosing any herbs for pregnancy preparation or for pregnancy, it is very important to learn if it is safe in pregnancy or not.  Learn about the safety of preconception herbs in pregnancy here…

3. Q: I got pregnant while doing the Fertility Cleanse, will the cleansing pass toxins on to my baby?  Will the herbs harm my baby?

A: It takes 7-10 days for a fertilized egg to move to the uterus for implantation.  If you got pregnant while doing the Fertility Cleanse, it is highly unlikely that any toxins will be passed on to your baby.  This is because you will have finished the herbs before the placenta has developed.  If you find out you are pregnant while still doing the Fertility Cleanse Kit, discontinue them.  You could wean off of them over a few days if you are worried about their action on the uterus.  There are some herbs in the Fertility Cleanse that have an action on the uterus, therefore you would not want to continue them into pregnancy.  Some herbs cause uterine contractions or are irritating to the uterus, which may potentially cause a miscarriage if continued more than a week or two.  This is why we never suggest trying to conceive while doing the Fertility Cleanse.

4. Q: I have been using herbs to prevent miscarriage, should I stop them suddenly or wean off of them?

A: Contact an herbalist, naturopathic doctor or midwife trained in herbal medicine and ask them for guidance. Hopefully you are already working with a natural healthcare practitioner who is suggesting herbs that are safe for pregnancy, the proper dosage to take them, and the length of time for use. Never stop them suddenly; again, weaning off over time is best. The general approach is to continue your herbal miscarriage prevention protocol until at least 2 weeks past the last weeks’ gestation of the previous miscarriage (if the previous miscarriage occurred at 8 weeks, continue the formula until at least 10 weeks). Remember, it is extremely important to work with an herbal practitioner, someone who can monitor your herbal program.

5. Q: I have been using natural progesterone cream to prevent miscarriage and I am nearing my 20th week.  Should I just stop using the cream one day, or wean off slowly?

A: By the 20th week of gestation, the placenta should take over progesterone production. At this point there should be no need to continue on with natural progesterone cream, unless you are suggested to do so by your midwife or doctor.  It is fine to stop the cream any time after the 20th week.  It does not matter if it is suddenly stopped or not.  If you are worried, you would wean off over a couple of days.  If you have a history of miscarriage due to low progesterone and you are worried, talk to your healthcare practitioner about your concerns regarding discontinuing natural progesterone cream.

6. Q: How can I find out if the herbs I am taking are safe for use in pregnancy or not?

A: The best way to find out is to write down a list of herbs you are interested in or are currently taking. You can then take the list to your local herbalist or call them to ask if they are safe or not. Books that have information on herbs that should not be used in pregnancy are:

Medical Herbalism The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine by David Hoffmann, FNIMH, AHG.  Page 394.

Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health by Aviva Romm, MD.  This book has a great list of herbs used for women’s health, with their safety for pregnancy and lactation from pages 553-611.

The above books are more advanced and many of the herbs are listed by binomial name. Motherlove Herbal company has a great list of herbs to avoid in pregnancy by common name and action.

You can also look up each herb in an herb book and it will most likely tell you if the herb is safe for pregnancy or not.  Most herbs are not suggested for pregnancy.

« Previous Post
Vitamin E Essential to Improve Fertility
Next Post »
Saw Palmetto for Improved Male & Female Fertility

About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 31

Open
👇3 Ways To Naturally Support Ovulation 👇

Lack of ovulation is one of the most common causes of infertility.

BUT you can help support your body to regularly ovulate again when hormonal health is found.

Here are some steps you can take to support yourself….

1️⃣ Eat healthy fats like avocado, chia, flax, nuts & seeds

2️⃣ Eat an abundance of whole foods 🥦🍉🥗🍇

3️⃣ Increase circulation to the reproductive system through exercise, Self Fertility Massage and castor oil packs.

👇 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the steps you can take to support your fertility cycle. 👇

#ovulation #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
🌱 Ashwagandha is one of my favorite herbs for stress support while trying to conceive. 

It is easy to use and the calming effects can be felt pretty quickly after starting the herb. 

➡️ The hormonal support results take a bit longer, as with any hormone supportive herb, but is wonderful for both women and men who are experiencing high stress and hormone imbalances. 

Type ASH in the comments below and I will share which Ashwagandha I recommend and how to use it for fertility support. 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
Q: I have a 24 day cycle. What is this saying about my fertility?

A: Swipe left for our answer...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 30

Open
⭐ 3 Benefits of Vitex for Fertility…

1️⃣ Regulates hormones: Vitex, also known as chasteberry, is known to regulate the production of hormones such as luteinizing hormone and prolactin, which can help to balance out estrogen and progesterone levels, promoting fertility.

2️⃣ Improves ovulation: Vitex can help to regulate the menstrual cycle and improve ovulation in women with irregular cycles or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

3️⃣ Decreases symptoms of PMS: Vitex can also help to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as cramps, breast tenderness, and mood swings, which can improve overall health and well-being.

Want to know which Vitex I recommend and how to use it? Type VITEX in the comments below 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 29

Open
🌱 Red raspberry leaf has been used by midwives for fertility for generations. Some of the most well known benefits of raspberry leaf for reproductive support include… 

1️⃣ Regulating menstrual cycles: Red raspberry leaf is believed to help balance hormones and regulate menstrual cycles, making it easier for women to conceive.

2️⃣ Strengthening the uterus: Red raspberry leaf is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin C, which are believed to help strengthen the uterus and prepare it for pregnancy.

3️⃣ Improving egg quality: Some studies suggest that red raspberry leaf may improve egg quality and increase the chances of conception.

4️⃣ Reducing morning sickness: Red raspberry leaf is also believed to help reduce the symptoms of morning sickness, which can be especially beneficial for women who are trying to conceive.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 29

Open
🧪 Xenohormones are chemicals that mimic the effects of hormones in the body. 

They can disrupt the endocrine system, which controls the production, transport, and function of hormones. 🚫

This can lead to a variety of health problems, including fertility issues. 

Examples of xenohormones include certain pesticides, plastics, and phthalates. 🕯️

Exposure to these chemicals can affect the production of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, which play key roles in fertility. 

Xenohormones can also affect ovulation and implantation of a fertilized egg, leading to infertility. 

It would be best to avoid these chemicals as much as possible. 

👇👇To  learn more about which chemicals to avoid and which products are most important to replace type in ‘TOXIC’ in the comments below to get my guide to Creating a Healthy Home for Fertility Pregnancy & Family 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
The body is always giving us feedback to what is happening inside. How regularly you go to the bathroom shares a lot about your digestive health.... as does a bloated belly or gas. Your period or monthly cycle can share a lot about your hormonal state. Your skin can share how your liver is doing. And so on. What have you learned from listening to your body?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 28

Open
🕯️Chemicals in candles, such as paraffin and phthalates, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. 

Some research suggests that certain VOCs, such as phthalates, may disrupt hormone balance by mimicking estrogen and other hormones in the body. 🚫

It’s always a good idea to choose candles made from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy wax, which produce fewer VOCs. 🐝

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 27

Open
5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 27

Open
Preparing for pregnancy is one of the best steps you can take for a healthy pregnancy and child. Here are some steps to help you get started…. 👇

1️⃣ Eat a diet high in fiber. More fruits and veggies

Fiber helps the body to get rid of excess hormones and fruits and veggies are packed with fiber. They also are very hydrating and have lots of nutrients. All are useful for someone with heavy cycles. 

2️⃣ Learn about your fertility cycle through tracking and charting

Fertility charting will help you to understand your current hormonal state, when or if you are ovulating and other information about your cycle that will help to bring clarity to your fertility path. 

3️⃣ Fertility Cleanse 1-2x per year

The first phase of the Fertility Cleanse is a great way to help support the liver in it’s natural ability to get rid of excess hormones. The second phase focuses on the uterus and helping the uterus to cleanse and increase circulation.

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
💡It can be completely normal for your menstrual cycle to vary in length slightly from month to month! 

Ovulation may come a day before or a day later even in normal some cycles. 

We actually expect to see natural variations between menstrual cycles. 

Early ovulation can be concerning, however, when/if it consistently happens. 

➡️ If you would like to learn what you can do to help balance a short follicular phase type EARLY in the comments below and I will send you a link to my guide….👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
Are you experiencing fibroids? 👇 Type FIBROID in the comments below and I will send you a link to my natural guide. 🌱

#fibroid #fibroids #naturalfertility #fibroidfertility #fibroiddiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 26

Open
Intimacy may not be something at the top of your mind with everything else you are doing to TTC. But connection with your partner and you feeling.... good is important. Here are some natural ways to support libido if the stress of baby making has made things tense in the bedroom.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 25

Open
When in doubt get it checked out. 

One of the most common reasons I suggest women to see their doctors is when they are experiencing  a heavy period that doesn’t stop after 5-7 days and has heavy flow. 

There are many different reasons this could be happening, but we first want to make sure it isn’t something that requires medical assistance before going on to healthy lifestyle support.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 25

Open
Ovarian cysts are more common than you think, and there are ways you can support your body naturally. Type CYSTS in the comments below and I will send you the natural steps you can take to support your self.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 24

Open
🌱 One of my favorite ways to support fertility and hormone health is through herbs. 

Over the past 20+ years that I have been an herbalist I have seen what herbs can do to help turn someone’s health around. 

When it comes to fertility there are a lot of different herbs that you can use. But they all have different actions. There is no one herb that fits all for fertility. 

That is one of the reasons I make herbal blends & formulas. 

Three of my favorite herbs are vitex, maca and shatavari, but they each have different effects on the body. 

So the key to success with fertility herbs is to first figure out what is going on in your body and then you can pick the right herbal formula for you. 

You can do this by charting your fertility (I have a lot of posts about fertility charting on my feed as well as my website) and also paying attention to your period. 🩸

To learn more about my herbal formulas for fertility support type HERBS in the comments below and I’ll share a link to my formulas 👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 24

Open
👇READ THIS if you have a regular period but still haven’t gotten pregnant…. 

The answer is YES. The menstruation phase of a monthly fertility cycle is only one stage of the cycle. 

There are many other times of the month that are even more important like: 

🌸 Follicular phase: When the lining is growing and follicles are maturing

🌸 Ovulation: When the egg is released

🌸 Implantation: When the fertilized egg implants

🌸 Luteal phase: The time period between ovulation and the next cycle needs to be long enough for implantation to occur. 

Wondering how to start supporting your fertility naturally? 

👇 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the steps you can take to support your fertility cycle. 👇

#periods #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 23

Open
Endometriosis can impact fertility and having a healthy pregnancy. 

Preparing ahead of time and taking the steps can make a big difference. 

Type ENDO in the comments below if you would like my natural guide to supporting your fertility regardless of having endometriosis....💛👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Jan 23

Open
🌱 One of my favorite ways to support fertility and hormone health is through herbs. 

Over the past 20+ years that I have been an herbalist I have seen what herbs can do to help turn someone’s health around. 

When it comes to fertility there are a lot of different herbs that you can use. But they all have different actions. There is no one herb that fits all for fertility. 

That is one of the reasons I make herbal blends & formulas. 

Three of my favorite herbs are vitex, maca and shatavari, but they each have different effects on the body. 

So the key to success with fertility herbs is to first figure out what is going on in your body and then you can pick the right herbal formula for you. 

You can do this by charting your fertility (I have a lot of posts about fertility charting on my feed as well as my website) and also paying attention to your period. 🩸

To learn more about my herbal formulas for fertility support type HERBS in the comments below and I’ll share a link to my formulas 👇👇
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us