Raspberry Leaf Tea
Raspberry leaf tea should be avoided before 36 weeks. From 36 weeks onwards it is generally considered safe and is traditionally used to prepare the uterus for labour.
Raspberry leaf tea is one of the most commonly asked-about herbal teas in pregnancy, and the timing guidance is important. It should not be drunk before 36 weeks of pregnancy. Raspberry leaf contains fragrine, an alkaloid that tones and strengthens the uterine muscles. While this is traditionally believed to be beneficial in preparing for labour in the final weeks of pregnancy, the same mechanism makes it potentially harmful earlier on — it could stimulate uterine contractions before the baby is ready. The NHS and most midwifery guidance advises avoiding it entirely in the first and second trimesters and not starting it before 36 weeks. From 36 weeks, many midwives actively recommend it as a natural way to prepare the body for labour. Most guidance suggests one cup per day from 36 weeks, gradually increasing to two to three cups per day from 38 weeks. It should also be avoided if you have had a previous caesarean, are expecting twins, have had any complications in this or a previous pregnancy, or if your baby is in a breech or transverse position — in all these cases, discuss with your midwife before drinking it.
What to be aware of
- Do not drink raspberry leaf tea before 36 weeks of pregnancy.
- From 36 weeks, start with one cup per day and increase gradually if recommended by your midwife.
- Avoid if you have had a caesarean section, are expecting multiples, or have had any pregnancy complications.
- Avoid if your baby is breech or transverse.
- Always discuss with your midwife before starting raspberry leaf tea.
NHS guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/
US guidance
US health authorities including ACOG do not specifically endorse raspberry leaf tea, and many US ob-gyns advise avoiding it due to limited clinical evidence of benefit and the potential for uterine stimulation. The practice of drinking it from 36 weeks is more established in UK midwifery culture than in US obstetric practice.