Pregnancy

Aromatherapy is especially suited to pregnancy because of the gentle nature of many essential oils, although, they must be used with knowledge and care. The old adage, “if a little is good, a lot is better” does not apply to aromatherapy. Rather, a little goes a long way is a better philosophy when using essential oils.

Essential oils during childbirth are a safe, natural and beautiful way to help you feel calm and confident while going through one of the most empowering experiences of your life as a woman.

When buying essential oils always look for labels that state “pure essential oils”. Price is usually a good indicator of quality, so buy the most expensive oils you can afford. Although an oil might smell nice, if it isn’t pure it will not have the therapeutic qualities you might expect. Essential oils last longer if stored in dark glass containers. Never buy or store oils in plastic.

As a pregnant woman there are certain precautions that you must consider when using essential oils. Never apply essential oils directly to the skin without first diluting them in a carrier oil, bath water, or a cream/lotion. Essential oils should only be used externally and never taken by mouth. As a rule of thumb, pregnant women should only use essential oils derived from flowers, rather than herbs.

If you have experienced a miscarriage in the past, avoid using any essential oils for at least the first three months of pregnancy.

Where Aromatherapy Helps Most

• ✔ It can help you deal with stress.
• ✔ It aids relaxation, develops a positive outlook, and helps with the birth.
• ✔ It relieves tiredness, aches, and minor discomforts of pregnancy.
• ✔ It prevents stretch marks by nourishing the skin.
• ✔ It helps mothers-to-be connect deeply with their bodies and babies.

The caring touch of a massage, either from a qualified aromatherapist or a partner, is highly therapeutic. Mothers often report feelings of peace and tranquility after aromatherapy massage.

How To Use Essential Oils

Essential oils can be worked into the body in several safe and effective ways:

Massage

Combine essential oils with a carrier oil such as almond or jojoba. Use gentle strokes toward the heart. Avoid varicose veins and swollen areas. Massage promotes relaxation, improves circulation, and eases muscle tension.

Foot Massage

Revives tired feet and reduces swelling. Apply prepared oil, make circular pressures on the soles, and gently knead the feet.

Facial Massage

Apply sparingly to the face and neck with upward strokes at night after cleansing. Promotes skin health and relaxation.

Aromatic Baths

Add 2–4 drops of essential oil to a warm bath. Swish to disperse and soak for 10–15 minutes.

Sitz Bath / Bidet

Add 2 drops of essential oil to warm water (enough to cover hips). Soak for 5–10 minutes for postnatal soothing.

Footbaths

Add 2–3 drops of essential oil to hot water. Soak feet for 10–20 minutes.

Showers

Add 2–3 drops to a sponge or washcloth, rub over the body, and breathe in the aroma under warm water.

Compresses

Add 2–4 drops to ½ pint of hot or cold water, soak a cloth, wring slightly, and apply to the affected area. Excellent for labor pains, aches, or swelling.

Inhalations

Add 2–4 drops to a bowl of hot (not boiling) water, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in vapors for 1–5 minutes.

Guide To Essential Oils During Pregnancy

Essential Oils of Greatest Use

• Lavender: Relieves pain, promotes relaxation, eases insomnia and muscular aches.
• Mandarin: Calming, cheerful, eases fluid retention and fatigue.
• Neroli: Regenerates skin, reduces nervous tension, aids cell renewal.
• Petitgrain: Uplifting, relieves depression, complements Neroli and Mandarin.
• Tangerine: Prevents stretch marks, uplifts mood, calms nerves.
• Ylang Ylang: Relaxing, aphrodisiac, lowers blood pressure, relieves anxiety.

Essential Oils for Limited Use

• Cypress: After fifth month only; relieves varicose veins and swelling.
• Geranium: After fifth month; balances mood, improves circulation.
• Lemon: Helps morning sickness, boosts circulation.
• Sandalwood: Calms, nourishes dry skin, supports urinary health.
• Tea Tree: Gentle antiseptic; helps with thrush and infections.

Essential Oils to Avoid During Pregnancy

Avoid oils such as Angelica, Jasmine, Rosemary, Basil, Juniper, Sage, Myrrh, Cinnamon, Peppermint, and Fennel. These may overstimulate or cause adverse effects during pregnancy.

Safety & Storage Tips

• Never use essential oils internally.
• Avoid citrus oils before sun exposure — they can increase pigmentation.
• Keep oils away from heat, light, and air; store in dark glass bottles.
• Always dilute essential oils for babies and children using sweet almond oil.
• Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before using any oil during pregnancy.

More information: Contact us at Suvasa Aromatherapy for expert guidance on safe essential oil use.