I've been chatting to the lovely Kirsty from Take Five Aromatherapy, specialists in natural aromatherapy products to support pregnancy, birth & postnatal well-being. Kirsty has a distinction in Aromatherapy for Pregnancy, Labour and Postpartum and trained with Penny Price Aromatherapy.
This month she's covering essential oils that can be used to support and empower your labour and birth. With many midwives now trained to be able to advise and administer essential oils during labour, the use of this sweet-smelling comfort measure is becoming more and more common in the birthplace and their use is increasingly supported and accepted by medical professionals.
'In labour, aromatherapy can ease pain and aid contractions.
It can also be used for relaxation and to help prevent nausea and vomiting.'
So what essential oils does Kirsty recommend for labour and birth?:
Frankincense - balances the mind, calming, grounding and can help to regain focus during the transition phase of labour
Clary Sage - strengthens the uterine muscles, empowering during labour, heady euphoric fragrance, not to be used until early signs of labour
Rose Otto - prepares the uterine muscles for labour as above, not to be used until early signs of labour
Lemon - antiseptic, boosts energy during labour, eases nausea during birth
Top Tip - Your chosen anchor - If using Lavender/Geranium etc during pregnancy, use these oils again during birth. The familiar scent will anchor your mind back to the relaxed, safe state that you felt during pregnancy relaxation.
To purchase any of the wonderful Take Five Aromatherapy products, blended specifically to support pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period in the form of Pulse Point Rollers, Soy Candles and Wax Melts to Pillow Mists and beautiful Hampers, please visit: takefivearomatherapy.co.uk
To learn more about the use of Aromatherapy in pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period you may enjoy Essential Oils for Pregnancy, Birth & Babies.
n.b. If you're considering using a complementary therapy, such as Aromatherapy it's important to tell your GP or midwife about what you're considering. If you then decide to use a complementary therapy, you should always consult a qualified practitioner.
