Essential Oil Use in Pregnancy

In our last post we talked about the basics of essential oils. I love them and hope that you were inspired to dig a bit deeper, maybe learn more about them, and possibly even include these little liquids in your life.

I'm glad to now discuss some practical uses of essential oils in pregnancy.

Keep in mind that there are so many great oils to choose from. I'm a minimalist at heart, so my list is short and you can definitely stay within a budget while including these suggested essential oils.   ​

Let's start by remembering that essential oils are plant based liquids and are inherently safe when used properly. That said, excessive and improper use of oils can have adverse effects on our already hard working bodies and growing babies.  The same goes for using essential oils that are reconstructed and contain yucky pesticides and filler substances. 

Prior to Pregnancy
I can't say enough about detoxing your environment for pregnancy. Studies show that “exposure to chemicals in household products might be harmful to babies before birth.” Further, “prenatal exposure to common household products, particularly cleaners, was associated with persistent wheezing (in babies) after birth" (1). 

​By making sure that your home is free of synthetic chemicals, you are safe guarding your growing baby's future health.

One way to do this is by switching out standard cleaning products, which are almost always toxic, with non-toxic options.

​Essential oils are just as effective at cleaning the air and surfaces as conventional products, so we don't have to worry about sacrificing cleanliness. 

DIY Glass and Surface Cleaner 

This cleaner can be used on most surfaces such as glass, countertops, toilets, and floors.

Fill amber glass spray bottle with

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 cup vinegar
• several drops of lavender essential oil. 

​​​Lavender essential oil has antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.

Pregnancy
Pregnancy is known for being accompanied by specific discomforts. However, by simply adjusting our diet and supplementing you may not have to struggle so badly.
​
Essential oils can help relieve or lessen some of your body's not-so-fun responses to growing a human. 

• Exhaustion is a common struggle in pregnancy. Not only is your body working non stop to grow your baby by passing needed nutrients to them, you also must carry the weight of baby, increased blood volume, placenta, and fluids. When you are physically overworked your body's nervous system is usually on overdrive. Bergamot essential oil is a wonderful way to increase your stamina and uplift our mood by calming the nervous system. Use aromatically for best results.
• Morning sickness may be managed with peppermint essential oil. Peppermint is actually prescribed by doctors to relive digestive issues under the trade name “Colperin” (2). By simply inhaling straight from the bottle or diffusing a few drops  in a diffuser with distilled water, the liquid molecules will enter the air and are able to be breathed in, benefitting your body with its properties.
• General soreness may also accompany your pregnancy. Your body bares the weight of baby, fluids, and your placenta. In pregnancy, your body also produces a hormone called relaxin. This hormone relaxes the ligaments in your pelvis in order for it to open as you birth your baby. Relaxin can also make for some sore backs and bodies. Have your partner mix 1 tablespoon of carrier oil such as olive or fractionated coconut with a few drops of lavender essential oil. Use this mixture to massage your back, shoulders, limbs, feet, etc. (make sure to avoid pressure points that stimulate contractions, like the inner ankle). Massaging with lavender essential oil may help relieve soreness with its anti-inflammatory properties.

As a review, here is a list of my recommended essential oils to use before and during pregnancy. Make sure to research for yourself the safety and proper usage of these specific essential oils before use. 

• lavender
  
• peppermint
  
• bergamot

I am grateful for these plant based liquids that help to keep our bodies and environments healthy before and during pregnancy! 

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Resources:
1. http://www.healthychild.org/respiratory-risk-before-the-first-breath/
2. The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy