Aromatherapy Oils During Pregnancy, Childbirth and Post-Birthing
Essential oils to avoid during pregnancy
- Basil
- Clary Sage*
- Marjoram - esp. Low blood pressure*
- Peppermint
- Rosemary - esp. High blood pressure
- Sage
- Thyme - mucous membrane irritant
* ok during Labour
Essential oils that are safe during pregnancy, childbirth and post-birthing
During Pregnancy
Massage carefully during pregnancy, but most definitely do massage. Gentle caressing over the body softens the mother-to-be, while at the same time quiets that little baby inside just bursting to arrive.
As baby’s weight increases, so does the pressure on the pelvis, the spine, the abdomen and the legs - all very important areas to address with your aromatic wardrobe and daily body massage.
While it is particularly wonderful to receive a massage, it is most important to apply your oils daily to keep the skin supple and improved elasticity. Pay particular attention to the abdominal area which is obviously where most of the stretching occurs. Ankles and legs can be supported and relieved by applying oils and also soaking the ankles and feet in an essential oil foot bath.
It is important to note that oils during pregnancy can help prevent stretch marks and keep the skin glowing and toned.
During Childbirth
This is a wonderful time for the father-to-be able to participate in early stages of birthing. Massage the lower back with flowing/sweeping strokes from the back over the pelvic region and onto the tummy. A deep massage of the feet can help to take the thoughts away from all the action in the abdominal area.
Wiping the forehead and face with a tepid aromatic face washer in between contractions helps to soothe and strengthen the mother-to-be. Light strokes with a calming oil blend over the face help the mother release tension.
A vaporiser with its gentle candle light can become a point of focus for the mother during labour. The slow release of soothing and restorative vapours lessens the sometimes sterile hospital environment and can increase the loving connection between mother and father-to-be.
Post-Birthing
After the birth, during the post-birthing time, often there is a phase referred to as post-natal depression. This is a time to nurture and strengthen the body and spirit. Intimacy is needed and support is required. A loving massage with gentle strokes can be a way to reconnect sensually and intimately without having to actually enter into love-making.
More therapeutic and healing methods can be employed by massaging the abdominal and pelvic regions to help strengthen the natural functioning of the uterus.
Massage Blends
Test on a less sensitive part of the body first
Basic rule for body massage blends are 1:2 dilution of essential oil to base oil;
ie 5 drops of essential oil blend to every 10mls of sweet almond oil/jojoba oil.
Instructions
Blend as per combinations below and store in a new glass bottle to have ready when required.
Then in a small glass bowl add 20mls base oil and 10 drops of blended essential oils.
Now you’re ready to proceed.
Perineum Massage
- Jojoba Oil
During Pregnancy Blend
- Lavender - 23 drops
- Bergamot - 10 drops
- Cedarwood - 17 drops
Pre-Birth Blend
- Frankincense - 17 drops
- Sandalwood - 12 drops
- Orange 21 drops
First Stage Labour Blend
- Lavender - 22 drops
- Bergamot - 11 drops
- Clary Sage - 17 drops
Second Stage Labour Blend
- Sandalwood - 11 drops
- Marjoram - 22 drops
- Lavender - 17 drops
Post-Labour Blend (anti-depression blend)
- Geranium - 11 drops
- Lavender 22 drops
- Clary Sage - 17 drops
Exerpts Aromatherapy - K Downes & J White
