Are you interested in how to support yourself naturally during pregnancy, labour and nursing, with essential oils? This blog might give you some inspiration…
I have been using essential oils for years, and it has been quite some time now that I have been introducing this amazing practice of self-care to people. I am not a certified Aromatherapist, but I have taken a number of courses on this subject and I have always been interested in personal research.
Before suggesting oils to people, I always research the best possible scientific information available, especially if they are facing situations that require attention and care. Recently one of my clients has asked for some advice and tips on essential oils that could have supported her during her pregnancy and labour and I thought I would share it with everyone.
In the life of a woman, pregnancy is one of the most life-changing experience on all different levels: physically the body undergoes massive changes, and this leads to an emotional revolution in one’s personal life. The conscious use of essential oils and the expert advice of a massage therapist can really support the different phases of pregnancy, labour and nursing of a new mum during moments where you can feel fragile and emotional.
Essential oils can assist during the uncomfortable changes that take place during this period in the body, but also they can act effectively as emotional support.
Do’s and Don’ts
When using essential oils my first recommendation is to look for quality: adulterated and inexpensive oils can do more harm than good in delicate situations like pregnancy. Support is also very important and consulting a physician and a midwife before taking new products is always recommended.
Even the pure, most natural, essential oil is a powerful supplement; diluting the oils, with a carrier oil (coconut oil, almond oil, etc) with the topical application is always recommended and as a rule of thumb I always suggest 4 drops of essential oil in 10ml of carrier oil. The sole of your feet are the most effective and safe way where you can apply essential oils, and everybody loves a foot massage!
Using essential oils aromatically is always the best and safe way to incorporate them in your daily habit; they are excellent for boosting mood and energy and creating an uplifting environment; they also can support you with stress reduction and promote a good night sleep.
It is safer to avoid some essential oils during pregnancy and breast feeding in order not to compromise the process: peppermint, clary sage, fennel and basil are oils that can really affect your milk production and labour phase so attention and consultation are recommended before using these oils. This is why consulting a professional is essential.
Preparing for birth
Oils such as bergamot, grapefruit, tangerine, neroli, jasmine, rose and lavender prove to be the most useful during this phase. Diffusing them can help decrease anxiety and create an atmosphere of calm. These oils can ease discomfort, nurture and reduce stress; theymay also contribute to a quicker, calmer labor and possibly reduce the need for drugs and other intervention during the final phase of pregnancy / labour.
Labor
Clary sage, jasmine, neroli or rose can help relax between contractions. Diffusing bergamot or lavender can really change the atmosphere in the delivery room and clary sage, chamomile and lavender in this phase have been studied and utilized for their effects.
Research has been conducted and the results were that lavender was most effective to relax uterine contractions (especially with exhaustion and need for sleep) while clary sage was very effective to encourage labor.
Postnatal depression
After all the changes that the body undergoes during pregnancy and labor, some people can feel over whelmed, tired and emotional. Not only have you birthed a new life but also this new life requires a lot of attention and this can create stress and anxiety in your newfound motherhood routine.
Bergamot, clary sage, geranium, grapefruit, mandarin, ylang ylang and frankincense are well known for their uplifting properties so diffusing them may help and support and calm you.
If you are interested in the world of essential oils and how these beautiful natural remedies can support you in your daily life or during important moments like pregnancy, I would love you to contact me at luca@healthspaceclinics.com.au as I will be more than happy to point you in the right direction and give you specific advice.
