Laminaria is a type of seaweed kelp. It may help to help soften and dilate the cervix, either prior to a surgical abortion or labor. Learn more about the possible benefits and side effects.

Laminaria is available in two common forms: a sterilized and dry stick and an oral supplement.

The stick is sometimes used to induce labor by being inserted into the vagina. As the laminaria stick expands, it may help to gently open (dilate) the cervix.

Read on to learn more about the use of laminaria and what to expect when using a stick for cervical dilation.

Laminaria supplements

When taken as a supplement, laminaria may be used to:

Laminaria sticks

Induction of labor is most successful when the cervix is ripe and ready for birth. This means it should be soft, thin, and beginning to open. Laminaria sticks can sometimes be used to help the cervix prepare for birth.

However, laminaria is now being used less frequently in labor as it may lead to infection. Speak with your delivery team about the benefits and risks of induction.

If you’re having an abortion, a doctor may recommend laminaria to reduce your risks during the procedure.

When using a laminaria stick, they will usually insert it vaginally the day before the procedure. You should be able to go home with the laminaria stick still in place. When you return the following day, you will receive a general anesthetic. A doctor will then remove the laminaria stick and use gynecological instruments and suction to empty your uterus and extract the fetus.

Laminaria sticks do not result in the termination of a fetus. They’re only used to help prepare your body for the abortion procedure.

Access to abortion

On June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that secured a person’s constitutional right to an abortion.

This means that individual states are now able to decide their own abortion laws. Many states will ban or severely restrict abortion access, and more states may follow suit.

The information in this article was accurate and up to date at the time of publication, but it’s possible the information has changed since. To learn more about your legal rights, you can message the Repro Legal Helpline via a secure online form or call 844-868-2812.

The method for inserting a laminaria stick is the same whether you’re inducing labor or having an abortion. You’ll be awake for the procedure but can have somebody accompany you if you wish.

The doctor will:

  1. Place a speculum inside your vagina to help them see the area.
  2. Clean the cervix with gauze soaked in soap.
  3. Apply a local anesthetic to the cervix before inserting the laminaria stick.
  4. Once the laminaria stick is inserted, they will pack your vaginal cavity with gauze to help keep the laminaria in place.

The actual procedure only takes five to 10 minutes. However, a doctor will want to talk with you about the procedure beforehand, and they may perform an examination or an ultrasound. You will also receive some medications, usually muscle relaxants and pain relief, before the procedure.

Do’s and don’ts

You should avoid sexual intercourse, douching, or soaking in a tub or swimming pool while the laminaria is in place. You can shower but should limit exposure of your vagina to water.

A doctor can let you know if there’s anything you’ll need to avoid eating. If you’re having a surgical abortion, they may recommend avoiding food after midnight. If you’re using laminaria to induce labor, you’ll likely be able to continue eating as you regularly would.

The use of laminaria sticks for induction of labor and abortion is not considered high risk. Even if the risks are very low, infection and perforation are possible. The risk of infection increases after a day, which is why the laminaria stick will be removed after this time. If a perforation occurs, it’s usually immediately apparent, and the cervix will need to be repaired surgically.

You may experience mild to moderate cramping as your cervix expands. A doctor may recommend muscle relaxers or over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers to help manage discomfort. If you’re using laminaria to induce labor, ask a doctor about medications that are safe for managing pain during pregnancy.

Will there be any effect on the birth or baby?

Laminaria sticks are typically safe for your unborn baby. There is no evidence that the use of laminaria sticks reduces or increases risks when compared to other methods for induction.

Induction will only be suggested by a doctor if they feel the risk of leaving your baby in utero outweighs the risks of induction.

Will using a laminaria stick affect future pregnancies?

Laminaria sticks should not affect future pregnancies. However, abortion or pregnancy complications may affect future pregnancies. Talk with a doctor about your concerns. They can explain possible complications associated with your specific procedure.

Laminaria sticks are used to help soften and dilate the cervix, either prior to a surgical abortion or as the first step in the induction of labor. You should not use laminaria oral supplements for this purpose.

The use of a laminaria stick is low risk, but induction of labor does pose some risks that need to be considered before deciding if it’s right for you. Talk with a doctor about your individual circumstances.