Aromatherapy in Pregnancy

Published on 24 July, 2011 | Aromatherapy

Treating Pregnant woman with Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy in Pregnancy – The versatility of aromatherapy and the gentle nature of the treatment make it suitable for all stages of life, from babies just a few weeks old into extreme old age.  It can help alleviate conditions as varied as arthritis, backache and morning sickness, ease the side effects and anxieties of patients undergoing medical treatments and be a source of relief to overstressed bodies and troubled minds.

 

Pregnancy and Childbirth

Women today are striving to demedicalize and reduce technological intervention, and trusting their own body’s abilities to give birth naturally.  A holistic approach incorporating aromatherapy enables them to achieve this while balancing the body and giving relief to minor discomforts during pregnancy.

The body in pregnancy

Hormones responsible for maintaining a healthy pregnancy and development of the body cause changes to many systems within the mother’s body, affecting her body both physically and emotionally.

Changes in the digestive system may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation and heartburn, while adjustments in the cardiovascular (circulatory) system may cause fluid retention (oedema) and leg cramps.  A rise in blood volume raises the blood pressure but some postures the mother adopts can cause rapid lowering of blood pressure, causing dizziness and fainting.

As the baby grows it displaces the bladder, causing urinary frequency and, often, urinary tract infections.  Changes in the vaginal pH can also lead to the development of thrush.

Loosening of ligaments and reduction in density of connective tissue can lead to backache and ligament pain, especially around the pelvic region.

Skin changes and worsening of pre-existing skin conditions may become apparent, and the growing pregnancy may result in stretch marks on the abdomen, breasts, thighs and buttocks.

Emotionally women can experience episodes of tearfulness and irritability due to the changing levels of hormones in the body.  These exacerbate the natural anxieties, especially for first time mother facing unfamiliar responsibilities, probably adjusting to a new way of life after being a couple with a social life, a reduction of status and income as well as changes in body image.

In medical terms all these may only amount to minor disorders expected during pregnancy, but can be seen to be major problems in the mother-to-be’s perception.

 How aromatherapy can help

Some aromatherapists may feel uneasy treating a pregnant woman, yet this is a condition that can bring great emotional and physical benefit.  There are, however, some specific practices of which you need to be aware.

Essential oil usage and dosage is limited in pregnancy due to their effects on the body, which could potentially cause harm to the mother or the baby, particularly in the first twelve to fourteen weeks, at the prime time of the baby’s development.  This is why a thorough consultation and detailed evaluation of essential oils is paramount, explaining to the mother how recommended oils will act on her body.

As with any client, meticulous note-taking is essential, as is ensuring the client informs her professional carers of the aromatherapy treatments being received, to ensure there is collaboration.