There are many essential oils out there, but you never know which ones are best to choose and can often be super expensive to buy. So I’m going to simplify things for you and give you the Top 5 Essential Oils that are great to have in your “tool box” for pregnancy/labour/postpartum.
1. Lavender
The main benefit of lavender is relaxation. It can be used during pregnancy, to help with sleep and/or anxiety. It can help when you’re in early pre-labour to help you calm your mind and get rest. It can be used during postpartum period, to help with any stress, and it can also benefit baby to help soothe fussiness.
2. Peppermint
This oil is sometimes mistaken as unsafe during pregnancy, when in fact it is one of the best for headaches, and nausea—a common first trimester symptom. You can safely use it throughout pregnancy, and also during labour to aid with fatigue. Peppermint is a mental stimulant, and can help keep you alert and focused.
3. Rose
This is a great oil for during pregnancy, during labour and postpartum for both you and baby. It’s soothing and helps spark love, aka an aphrodisiac. During labour, in particular, it can help you connect to your love hormone, oxytoxin.
4. Clary Sage
Best used during pre-labour or early labour to improve uterine contractions. It can be rubbed over the top of the belly as well as the back, and/or can be diffused into the room.
5. Melissa, aka LemonBalm
This oil can be used during pregnancy for relaxation. But because of its uplifting ability, it is best used during the postpartum period for you, to help with any Postpartum Mood Disorders, such as depression. This can be used in massage, diffuser, or facial spray.
It is important to know that when using oils for massage, they need to be used with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, almond oil, or grape seed. Also, many oils can be used in combination of one another to give you a more customized aromatherapy blend to suit your particular needs. It is important to consult with a certified aromatherapist before using essential oils.
Disclaimer: Doulas cannot recommend oils but we can use them at the request of the client if they know what they would like to use.
By Pamela Pagnotta, Certified Aromatherapist
For more information, or if you have any questions, you can email me at Pamela@thedoulagroup.ca