Essential oils (31 weeks pregnant)

[Mrbumpoid]

Hi,

So I am wanting to choose an essential oil scent to use up until and during labour. I would be using it as scent sticks etc in the house (and maybe in the bath) during relaxing times. I would then need it on a handkerchief during labour to help release oxytocins.

I know there are some banned. I know lavender is a go according to some and a no according to others - oh and I don't like the smell anyway I asked in The
Body Shop and Holland and Barrett - they were extremely helpful but couldn't answer for sure.

Does anyone know for SURE which are safe and to use in this way I need it?? My midwife isn't available until Wednesday and I'd like to start doing it all ASAP.

Thanks!

I thought it's only Clary Sage that's not recommended?

I used loads of eucalyptus, a DoTerra blend called Balance, Bergamot, lemongrass and this nice pine tree one I have.

I'm not keen on lavender unless it's blended with something else personally.

Have you got a Neals Yard near you? They do pregnancy friendly massage and scent products as well as other essential oils so should know more about which ones are safe.

Hi, I have a book which has a list of all essential oils to avoid in pregnancy. I will take a picture of the page for you later. I think what is key to remember is to only use 1 or 2 drops too. An overpowering smell could be harmful so you need something very subtle. I use lavender a lot so I believe that is fine. I also use Neil's Yard products which are brilliant x

@bluebambino that would be GREAT!

@afternoontwee I haven't heard of it but have just Googled and there is one close!

I used lavender on my pillow every night to help me to sleep from about week 25 and also used it in the early stages of labour with scented candles etc and had it on a flannel to breathe in at home. Didn't realise it was controversial! For what it's worth I had an easy 8 hour labour with gas and air. We got to the hospital around 3 hours before he was born and I was 7cm.

Also I don't think you'll get a for definite list as everyone is different and there's probs not a strong correlation between usage and effect with enough women to say one way or another. We were also warned against Clary Sage at NCT (unless you were trying to bring on labour) and likewise raspberry leaf tea is supposed to bring on labour. I had a tablet of it at 36+5 as we were trying to avoid induction at 38 weeks and went into labour the following day but I assume it would have just happened like that regardless.

You should take proper advice on this - essential oils can have really strong effects and some have contraindications during pregnancy.

I make my own soap and have for years. But I stopped because I just don't trust any essential oils. My baby twins are just too precious