As a doula, I often get asked about the use of essential oils during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Essential oils can offer many benefits, from alleviating morning sickness to aiding in relaxation and recovery. However, safety is paramount, especially when it comes to pregnancy and the delicate postpartum period. Here’s a guide to help you navigate essential oil use safely and effectively.

The Benefits of Essential Oils

Essential oils can be a wonderful addition to your self-care routine during pregnancy and postpartum. They can help with:

Nausea and Morning Sickness: Oils like peppermint and ginger can provide relief.
Sleep Issues: Lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties.
Mood Support: Frankincense and bergamot can uplift and stabilize mood.
Pain Relief: Oils like eucalyptus and rosemary can soothe aches and pains.

Safety First: Essential Oil Guidelines

Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always check with your doctor or midwife before using essential oils, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are on medication.
Talk to a Certified Aromatherapist: They typically have the most knowledge about essential oils as it’s their focus of study. They can give you specific safety information and guidelines for your unique situation.
Dilution is Key: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be diluted with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) before application. For pregnant women, a dilution of 1% is generally recommended (1 drop of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil).
Go low and slow: When first starting to use essential oils, begin with 1 drop and increase from there. You likely need far less than you think.
Patch Test: Before applying any essential oil topically, do a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivity.
Assess yourself for reactions: When using essential oils scan your body regularly to see how you feel. Do you feel lightheaded? Nauseous? Itchy? Scratchy throat? Stuffy nose? If you have adverse reactions or just don’t feel right, cease use immediately and get fresh air.
Avoid Certain Oils: Some essential oils are not recommended during pregnancy. These include:
- Clary Sage: May stimulate uterine contractions. Most people recommend waiting until you reach your due date before using this oil.
- Rosemary: High doses can cause adverse effects.
- Sage: Can be irritating and potentially harmful in high doses.
- Peppermint or Spearmint: while safe to use in early pregnancy, use caution later in pregnancy and postpartum as the mint family can negatively affect milk supply.
Use Diffusers Wisely: When using essential oils in a diffuser, ensure that the room is well-ventilated and limit diffusion to 30-60 minutes at a time. Essential oils can be potent, so less is often more. Be mindful of how many drops you put in your diffuser at one time. I guarantee you don’t need 10 drops. Start with 3 or 4.

Common Essential Oils for Pregnancy and Postpartum

Lavender: Excellent for relaxation, reducing stress, and aiding sleep. It’s also useful for soothing minor skin irritations and burns (make sure to dilute!)
Peppermint: Helps with nausea, headaches, and digestive discomfort. It’s invigorating and can provide relief from muscle pain.
Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea properties and can help with digestive issues. It’s also warming and supportive during cold weather.
Frankincense: Promotes relaxation and can help with stress and anxiety. It’s also beneficial for its skin-rejuvenating properties.
Chamomile: Offers calming effects, which can be helpful for anxiety and sleep disturbances. It’s gentle and safe for most people.
Tea Tree Oil: Provides antimicrobial benefits and can help with minor skin infections or irritations. It’s best used in a diluted form.

Essential oils can be a fantastic tool for enhancing well-being during pregnancy and postpartum, but they must be used with caution. Always prioritize safety by consulting with your healthcare provider, diluting oils properly, and avoiding those that may be harmful. With the right approach, essential oils can support your journey into motherhood and help you feel more comfortable and at ease.

If you’re ever unsure or have questions about using essential oils, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional who can provide personalized advice. Your health and safety, and that of your baby, are always the top priority.