Essential Oils to Use and Avoid in Pregnancy

All of the changes that occur during pregnancy can be both exciting and overwhelming. One way to help manage some of the emotions and physical changes that happen during pregnancy is to use essential oils. Essential oils are a natural, safe way to support your wellbeing during pregnancy. They are another important addition to the different tools available for you such as hypnobirthing, breathing techniques, and prenatal yoga.

Here are some tips on how to use essential oils during pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a special time in a woman's life

Pregnancy is an amazing journey. Not only does it involve changes in physical and emotional wellbeing, but there are also dietary, lifestyle, and medical considerations that come with it. It takes strength and courage to bring a new being into the world, and it is easy to get overloaded with information from doctors, family members, friends, and the internet. With this in mind, we can help make the journey a little easier by reminding pregnant women of what matters most: it's about you and your baby. Self-care during pregnancy is not just necessary for the mom but for the baby as well. It's important to take one day at a time and remember that every woman's experience will be different. 

The benefits of using essential oils during pregnancy

Using essential oils during your pregnancy can offer several benefits both for you and your little one. Many women have found that the aroma from certain essential oils can help to lift their mood, reduce symptoms of anxiety, and even alleviate certain types of discomfort. Additionally, some assert that calming and focusing scents can promote a baby's neural development in the womb. Furthermore, when you use an oil diffuser or topically apply some oil on your skin, you may absorb ingredients that are known to help improve digestion, circulation, lymphatic flow, and a healthy respiratory system—all very important for a happy expectant mother! So why not try a few essential oils during this special time? It may be just what you need to boost your wellbeing.

Please do not confuse essential oils with oils used for other purposes such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil for perineal massage (see article: best oils for perineal massage). 

Are essential oils safe during pregnancy?

Essential oils are often used for their therapeutic and calming effects, but is it safe to use them during pregnancy? It’s important to always consult with your healthcare provider before relying on essential oils while pregnant. Studies have indicated that many essential oils are gentle and not harmful if used properly. However, there are some essential oils known to be potentially harmful if not used under the supervision and advice of a healthcare provider due to possible interactions with certain medications and other health conditions like diabetes or asthma. So overall, it’s best practice to discuss the use of essential oils with an expert before using them as part of your natural wellness routine.

The best essential oils in pregnancy

These essential oils can help alleviate some unpleasant but common symptoms during your pregnancy. They may support the overall health and wellbeing of both mother and baby during pregnancy:

• Lavender is known for its calming effects, regardless of where it's applied or diffused.
• Chamomile is a classic and popular choice for calming anxiety or stress as well as reducing inflammation from swelling.
• Peppermint oil has been used historically to soothe headaches as well as bring relief from nausea. Ginger is great during pregnancy due to its antispasmodic nature and ability to relax the digestive tract muscles while also providing a warming sensation.
• Tea tree oil is incredibly versatile with various antibacterial properties along with being antiviral and antifungal.
• Cypress is a go-to when it comes to reducing fluid retention in the body, which can be beneficial if you suffer from varicose veins that are becoming uncomfortable during pregnancy.
• Geranium is known for balancing hormones at this special time in your life.
• Cardamom can help combat morning sickness and nausea.

What essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy?

Taking extra caution while pregnant is always in your best interest, so make sure to stay educated and pick options that won't negatively affect your health and your baby's health too. During pregnancy, certain essential oils should be avoided as they have known side effects on the mother and developing child. These include but are not limited to:

• Sage
• Fennel
• Clary sage
• Marjoram
• Tarragon
• Caraway
• Cinnamon
• Thuja, or cedar
• Mugwort
• Birch
• Wintergreen
• Basil (estragole CT)
• Camphor
• Hyssop
• Aniseed
• Tansy
• Wormwood
• Parsley seed or leaf
• Pennyroyal 

Consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils in pregnancy

There are many safety precautions when it comes to taking care of yourself during pregnancy. So, before incorporating essential oils into your self-care routine, it is important that you consult a healthcare professional. By understanding the risks associated with using essential oils while pregnant, you can make an informed decision with the guidance of your healthcare professional. This will allow you to reap the benefits of essential oils while keeping both you and your baby safe and healthy.