Raspberry leaf is frequently ingested by women in the third trimester as it is thought to tone the uterus in preparation for labour, possibly avoiding postmaturity and making contractions more effective and less painful, although there is
little clinical evidence of this. Women have taken raspberry leaf for decades without apparent adverse effects, but it should be avoided before the third trimester unless prescribed by a qualified medical herbalist. For obvious reasons, women with a uterine scar or a history of preterm labour, pregnancy loss or ‘‘precious’’ pregnancy such as IVF should be cautioned against taking raspberry leaf. It is wise to advise women to accustom themselves to the effects by increasing the dose slowly over a period of weeks, as some womenexperience excessively strong Braxton Hicks contractions.