Pregnancy and Childbirth

 

 

Dr. Lindsey Elmore, Young Living's direct of global education and health sciences.

For some people it can be very hard to decide whether to use essential oils in pregnancy, and there are a wide variety of opinions on the matter. It is important to discuss usage with a medical professional experienced with essential oils and to be judicious with their use.

Some women choose to avoid excessive use of a few specific oils:

• Clary Sage or Sage

• Idaho Tansy or Hyssop

• Fennel

• Wintergreen

• Blends and supplements that contain these oils

 

However, there are no hard and fast rules. As with use in non-pregnant individuals, essential oil usage is individualized—just be sure you’re following label directions. Some of Young Living’s products are well loved and well tolerated by pregnant women and women who are lactating. Mild essential oils, such as Lavender and Frankincense, may be used topically for healthy-looking skin during pregnancy.

 

If you have never used essential oils and are pregnant, please consult with your healthcare provider prior to use. I advise you to start low and go slow. Start with just a few drops of essential oils and diffuse in a large area. If you tolerate it well, you may consider applying essential oils to the skin after diluting in V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex or inhaling them directly from the bottle.

 

The following list is a guide for using essential oils safely during pregnancy.
 

If you have any questions about using essential oils, seek out the guidance of a holistic health care practitioner first.

Oils that are generally considered safe: 

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Bergamot, Coriander, Frankincense, Geranium,Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Sandalwood, Orange,Ylang Ylang, and Rose 

 

 

Oils that for some would be better used diluted with a carrier oil: 

 

Clove, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Helichrysum, 

Marjoram, Melaleuca, Myrrh, Oregano, Peppermint, Roman Chamomile

 

 

* Use Peppermint essential oil sparingly near the end of your pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Mint is known to decrease milk production.

*To increase milk supply use Clary Sage and Geranium. Helichrysum, Lavender and Roman Chamomile are very helpful for sore nipples.    

 

*Clary sage can be a great way to get labour started if used by a trained midwife for a mom who is overdue. However, don't use this oil yourself, as overuse can make your contractions too powerful.