Saturday, February 21, 2009

Aromatherapy and Pregnancy

Many people relate essential oils and aromatherapy with massages, soothing baths, and oil-based perfumes. Little do people know that, aside from their calming effect, essential oils are now also being used for inducing birth as well as lessening the labor pains.

As with the stages of pregnancy, labor is also divided into three parts with the first part divided into three phases – the early phase, the active phase, and the transitional phase. The early phase is characterized by the start of mild contractions. During this phase, the use of Neroli and Lavender can help you to relax and free yourself from apprehensions. The active phase, on the other hand, is characterized by longer and more frequent contractions.

A combination of Lavender oil, Neroli oil and Rose oil can effectively bring you relaxation especially when massaged on the chest and the neck. During the third phase, you will experience intense and fast contractions. In order to ready yourself for childbirth, you can massage your back with a combination of Lavender, Clary Sage and Peppermint. Clary Sage Oil can strengthen your respiratory and muscular systems. It also helps lessen tension as well as pain. A combination of Peppermint and Rosemary can also give you enough strength for that final push.

There are also other essential oils that could help you during child birth. Here are some of them:

Bergamot oil, Grapefruit oil, and Lemon oil – when diffused, can help you to relax. Also good for unsettled stomach

Ylang-Ylang oil – effective for lowering blood pressure

Rose oil – helps the muscles to relax. Not recommended for those who are in their 1st and 2nd trimester of pregnancy as it may cause miscarriage

Jasmine Oil – helps dull uterine pain and is quite effective in stimulating production of breast milk

Clove Oil – known for its antiseptic and pain-relieving properties. It is also effective in preventing nausea during labor.

Since the safety and effectiveness of Evening Primrose Oil is still undetermined, it is not advisable to take this during your pregnancy.

Keep in mind however that, since pregnancy is such a delicate situation, use of essential should be monitored and under the supervision of your doctor. As a rule, pregnant women should use half of what they normally would.

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