Patient's question:
NoDoctor's answer:
Pregnant women should not eat Astragalus membranaceus. For pregnant women, especially those who are about to give birth, consuming Astragalus membranaceus can lead to postterm pregnancy and fetal macrosomia, resulting in difficult labor. In such cases, cesarean section or forceps delivery may be necessary, causing pain to the mother and potential harm to the fetus. The difficulty in labor caused by Astragalus membranaceus in pregnant women is due to its Qi-tonifying, elevating, and astringent properties, which interfere with the normal physiological process of fetal descent in the late stages of pregnancy. Astragalus membranaceus has the function of "strengthening Qi, tonifying muscles and bones, and promoting flesh growth and blood nourishment," which synergistically enhances fetal development, leading to rapid growth and difficult labor. Additionally, Astragalus membranaceus has diuretic effects. Through diuresis, amniotic fluid decreases relatively, which can prolong the duration of labor.