Pregnancy can often be that one time in life when things are so different and so special, yet at the same time, a wee bit overwhelming. Your body starts changing every day, and with that often comes a host of emotions and physical symptoms that might seem hard to handle. That’s where essential oils come into play.
Whether you’ve never tried essential oils before and are wondering how exactly they help during pregnancy, or perhaps you simply wonder whether they are safe in this period of your life, you’re in the right spot. I cover everything that you would need to know about essential oils and pregnancy: best to use, benefits, and important safety tips.
So make yourself comfortable. Make a cup of tea, and let’s have an exploration through the magical world of essential oils and how they can make everything in the journey of pregnancy just a little bit smoother.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are like a small gift from nature in a bottle. They are concentrated liquid extracts that contain the characteristic fragrance and healing properties of the plant from which they have been extracted. Imagine squeezing the essence out of a peppermint leaf or a lavender flower, and that is what essential oils are about. Essential oils are potent; that is why a little goes a long way. They have been used all over the world for centuries because of their many therapeutic properties.
Why Use Essential Oils during Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a little bit magical and a little bit miserable. Between morning sickness and swollen feet, there’s so much your body has to put up with. Gentle aid through tough challenges can be managed naturally with essential oils. Whether you are feeling queasy or you just need a moment of peace, it’s likely that there’s an essential oil available to bring at least a tad of relief.
Also, they smell incredible, which can be a nice addition when everything else seems off.
Benefits of Using Essential Oils during Pregnancy
Relief from Morning Sickness
Few things about early pregnancy may be as hard to handle as morning sickness. But there is some good news, and that is the fact that some essential oils actually help soothe that queasy feeling. Of course, some drops in a diffuser or other form, diluted appropriately with a carrier oil, will do for a light massage. These oils work by soothing the stomach and refreshing the senses, hence helping you get through the day without a nauseating feeling at all times.
Stress and anxiety reduction
It’s pretty normal to feel stressed or anxious sometimes when you’re pregnant. You are, after all, preparing for a big life change! Keeping that in mind, essential oils like lavender and bergamot can be of major help during such times. These essential oils are used to ensure relaxation and show sedation of anxiety. You can add this essential oil to your bath or just inhale its scent; it will help to create a peaceful environment, further making you feel at ease and relaxing.
Improved sleep quality
Sleep is usually difficult to maintain with a growing fetus inside of you. However, essential oils such as chamomile and sandalwood may be just the things one would need before dozing off to sleep more easily. These have gentle, calming effects that help quiet the mind and body, making it easy to fall asleep. Just a few drops on your pillow or a diffuser before bed could be all it takes to help you catch those much-needed Z’s.
Safety Measures of Using Essential Oils in Pregnancy
Essential Oils to Avoid
Though it may be tempting, there are some essential oils that should be avoided during pregnancy. As a matter of fact, rosemary, basil, and jasmine can all be stimulants for uterine contractions or lead to other problems. It’s always a place to research or ask your health care provider before using any new essential oil. Remember, just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s the same as safe for every situation.
How to Safely Use Essential Oils
Safety first! Use minimal amounts of essential oils when you are pregnant. To ensure safety and minimize risks, essential oils should be diluted with carrier oils like coconut and almond oil before use on skin. Patch test new oils to check for allergies.
You can also enjoy the benefits of oils applied through diffusion without skin contact. But, of course, it is always advised to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new routine.
Importance of Quality
But quality, of course, is a must when it comes to essential oils. The best-quality, pure essential oils are very important in obtaining all the benefits and ensuring safety. Look for oils labeled as organic and therapeutic-grade since no harmful additives, and with all the beneficial properties, will be given to you by such oils. With quality, you are more likely to get the positive effects and less likely to get any unwanted negative ones.
Essential Oils to Be Used at Different Stages in Pregnancy
Being naseous can be an experience of the first trimester, while fatigue remains center stage. Peppermint and ginger essential oils are powerful relief agents of morning sickness. Only a whiff of peppermint can revive your senses, while ginger will help calm your stomach. Mix these oils in a carrier oil and massage into your wrists or temples for a gentle, soothing effect.
Second Trimester
In the second trimester, your body starts to stretch and expand to make room for the little one. It’s the best time for oils like frankincense and lavender. Frankincense will increase skin elasticity, and lavender will calm your nerves and keep your stress in check.
Add a few drops of lavender oil to an evening bath in order to create a very good means of relaxation.
Third Trimester
In the third trimester, getting ready for the arrival of your baby is probably important to you. This is when your baby will feel uncomfortable because of changes in your body in preparation for labor. Clary sage and rose oils can help reduce this discomfort. Clary sage is known to help stimulate labor, but it is advisable to be used only when you are close to due date. Rose oil can help alleviate anxiety. These oils can be used inside a massage oil or diffused to create a calming environment as you prepare for the big day.
Many essential oils are a great accompaniment through your pregnancy to help, naturally, with some of the discomforts gained from carrying a little one. From soothing morning sickness to helping a woman in pregnancy relax and sleep better, there’s practically an oil for every pregnant issue. As with everything during pregnancy, the use of essential oils needs to be judicious and safe. One should always use high-quality oils, dilute properly, and preferably consult with a healthcare provider before trying something new. This way, one is assured that they will reckon with the benefits that these natural remedies expose their life to and, at the same time, keep both you and your baby safe. Whether you’re just starting or basically crossing the finish line, essential oils can offer that little bit more in the realm of comfort and peace to your pregnancy experience. This is your journey; do what works best for you. Here’s to a peaceful and healthy pregnancy!
FAQ’s
Can I use essential oils during the first trimester?
Essential oils during the first trimester can be tricky, since this is a very sensitive period of pregnancy. Speaking in general, it is always advisable to exercise caution. While some of these oils, such as peppermint, offer relief for morning sickness, others may not be quite safe to use. Always dilute them well and ask your doctor before trying any essential oil during these weeks.
Which essential oils should I avoid during pregnancy?
Certain aromatherapy oils should be avoided during pregnancy, as they can complicate pregnancy. Rosemary, jasmine, and basil are just a few that have been known to be too stimulating and possibly cause contractions or other problems. It’s wise to do your research on each oil individually, discussing with a healthcare professional those that would be appropriate for use in pregnancy.
How can I safely use essential oils during pregnancy?
Generally speaking, during pregnancy, using undiluted essential oils is absolutely not recommended. Never take them internally, but rather always dilute your essential oils with some sort of base oil, like coconut or almond oil, before smearing them on your skin. Be cautious about the amount used. A great way to reap benefits and not be troubled about this issue would be to use a diffuser. Of course, check with your doctor first.
Can essential oils help with labor and delivery?
Yes, some essential oils, such as clary sage and lavender, have homeopathic benefits during labor and delivery. Clary sage can help stimulate contractions and labor pains, while lavender can relax you and keep you alert. These, though, should be used only under the guidance of a healthcare professional, particularly in these last weeks.
What are the best essential oils for postpartum care?
Postpartum is another time when essential oils can be very helpful. Oils like lavender and frankincense can promote healing and emotional balance. Lavender helps with relaxation and sleep, while frankincense can aid in skin healing and reduce inflammation. Using these oils in a warm bath or as part of a gentle massage can be a soothing way to support your recovery.
