Essential oils in pregnancy

[zippyswife]

I attended a friend's essential oils class when I was about 20 weeks. I asked if it was safe in pregnancy and was assured it was. I tried various oils that evening and since then have tried a couple of samples. I have just read that some essential oils can cause deformities to the baby etc. Anyone know any more about this? .... I am Starting to panic!!

[April2013]

I wouldn't worry too much, if you are though you could ask your midwife to put your mind at rest, it is impossible to get through pregnancy without at least a few moments like this, I have had a fair few! I heard apparently lavendar is not recommended as could apparently bring on labour but don't know about any others, the NHS would be telling us to avoid them like they do with caffeine, alcohol, recreational drugs etc if there was a known significant risk, perhaps it is just one of those things that is best to avoid to be on the safe side but likely to be fine.

[toohardtothinkofaname]

I've used lavender throughout & all fine. Every website I read contradicts another! I

[zippyswife]

Thanks! Some of the oil mixes seem to contain some oils that some websites say are toxic to an unborn baby (not lavender though that sounds like it's safe). I'm going to steer clear and hope the little I've used has not had any impact.

[WhoTheFuckIsSimon]

I really don't think any essential oils could cause deformities.

On the labour ward I work at our policy says not to use them prior to 37 weeks, I think that's more to do with the risk of stimulating contractions if you use the wrong one.