Which Aromatherapy Oils Are Safe in Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be a time when you are plagued by all kinds of ailments, from morning sickness to aching muscles and sleepless nights. A safe way to alleviate your symptoms is to use natural remedies, like aromatherapy oils. However, it is important to know which oils are safe to use in pregnancy to ensure that you and your baby are not put at risk.

In this article, we will discuss which aromatherapy oils are safe during pregnancy, which ones to avoid and how you can use them. At myGynaePlus we want to support you on your pregnancy journey.

Understanding Aromatherapy Oils in Pregnancy

Aromatherapy is the use of plant extracts (usually oils) to promote health and wellbeing. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are obtained by distillation and have the natural smell and flavour found in the plant.

When you are pregnant, you are more vulnerable to all the things you are exposed to. Commercially produced toiletry products are unlikely to contain more than a very low level of essential oil (usually less than 0.01%) and there is no reason to believe that used as the manufacturer intended, they increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome (UK Teratology Information Service (UKTIS).

The problem is that there have been no epidemiological or evidence-based studies to assess the safety of essential oils during pregnancy. Most advice has been based on animal studies, historical practice and clinical experience.

Safe Aromatherapy Oils During Pregnancy

After the first trimester, several aromatherapy oils in pregnancy can be used safely when properly diluted. Here's what you can consider:

1. Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia)

Lavender stands out as one of the most versatile and safe oils for pregnancy. It is calming, analgesic, and may aid maternal coping capacity for labour by relaxing the mother, according to York and Scarborough NHS Teaching Hospitals.

Benefits include:

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Helping with insomnia

• Easing muscular aches and pains

• Supporting wound healing after delivery

• Chamomile (German or Roman)

Chamomile provides gentle, soothing support throughout pregnancy. This calming oil helps with emotional stability and can ease mild nausea. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for skin irritation as well.

3. Citrus Oils

Sweet orange, mandarin, grapefruit, and lemon offer uplifting, mood-boosting benefits. These gentle oils can help reduce stress and provide a refreshing atmosphere. They're particularly useful for combating nausea when inhaled.

4. Frankincense

Frankincense promotes calm and relaxation. It's especially helpful for reducing anxiety and supporting better sleep, which many pregnant women struggle with.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint is effective for nausea, vomiting and headache, note NHS guidelines. Use it sparingly through inhalation only, as it can affect milk supply if used heavily in later pregnancy.

6. Ginger

Ginger oil helps with morning sickness when inhaled. Place a few drops on a tissue and breathe in the scent when nausea strikes.

7. Ylang Ylang

This sweet, floral oil helps balance emotions and can support hormonal skin changes. It's calming and promotes emotional stability during pregnancy's ups and downs.

When to Start Using Aromatherapy Oils

First trimester essential oil use should be extra careful. Essential oils should always be used mindfully and safely, but in the first trimester, when all that wonderful baby development is going on, this is even more important, so only use oils under medical supervision. The baby is extra sensitive in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. 

This is when all the major organs and systems are forming, so you want to be extra sure you’re avoiding anything that could potentially disrupt this. After the 12th week of pregnancy, you can start using safe-for-pregnancy oils. The second and third trimesters are less sensitive because your baby is already formed. You can start using oils mindfully and safely and still experience great results. Talk to myGynaePlus’ maternity team to personalise your pregnancy aromatherapy routine.

Essential Oils to Avoid During Pregnancy

Several oils should be completely avoided throughout pregnancy due to potential risks. These include oils that may stimulate the uterus, affect blood pressure, or interfere with hormone levels.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary can stimulate uterine contractions and may increase blood pressure. It should be avoided throughout pregnancy.

Sage and Clary Sage (Before 37 Weeks)

Common sage contains thujone, which can cause uterine contractions. Clary sage has strong properties and should only be used during labour under professional guidance, never earlier in pregnancy.

Cinnamon and Clove

These warming spices can stimulate blood flow excessively and should be avoided in essential oil form.

Jasmine (Until Labour)

Jasmine can stimulate contractions and is best reserved for use during labour only, under professional supervision.

Other Oils to Avoid

Additional oils to exclude from your pregnancy routine include:

• Basil

• Cedarwood

• Cypress

• Juniper

• Myrrh

• Nutmeg

• Wintergreen

• Pennyroyal

• Parsley seed or leaf

• Wormwood

  
  

How to Use Aromatherapy Oils Safely

The method you choose matters as much as the oil itself. Follow these guidelines for safe use:

Diffusion and Inhalation

This is the safest method during pregnancy. Add 3-4 drops of oil to a diffuser and run it for 15-30 minutes at a time. You can also place a drop on a tissue and inhale gently.

Topical Application

Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil or sweet almond oil to avoid skin irritation. Use a 1% dilution rate, which means approximately 6 drops of essential oil per 30ml of carrier oil.

Always perform a patch test first. Apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours to check for any reaction.

Baths

Add 3-4 drops of pregnancy-safe oil to a tablespoon of carrier oil, then add to your bath water. This creates a relaxing, therapeutic experience without direct skin contact with undiluted oils.

What to Avoid

Never ingest essential oils during pregnancy. Internal use carries toxicity risks for both you and your baby. Also avoid applying oils directly to the skin without dilution, as pregnancy increases skin sensitivity.

Professional Guidance and Quality Matters

Choose therapeutic-grade oils from those pure oils that are 100% natural and supplied by a reputable company. Ideally, labels should list the Latin name of the plant the oil is extracted from, and the information about its purity and origin. Essential oils should always be stored in dark glass bottles, rather than plastic bottles which can leach into the oil over time.

“Although no specific adverse effects on the foetus have been reported following the topical application of essential oils, adverse effects from exposure to higher doses of oils (for example, in a massage) have not been excluded,” states UKTIS. “Before commencing any aromatherapy it is always wise to consult your midwife or obstetrician first.” Our team of gynaecologists and midwives at myGynaePlus are trained to provide expert advice on aromatherapy use according to your individual needs during pregnancy.

Using Aromatherapy During Labour

Many NHS hospitals and birthing centres offer aromatherapy during labour. Aromatherapy in maternity care can lead to reduced use of opioid analgesia, less need for augmentation as well as increased satisfaction in the care received.

Oils commonly used during labour include:

• Lavender for relaxation and pain relief

• Clary sage to support contractions

• Peppermint for nausea

• Frankincense for anxiety

These should only be used under the guidance of a trained midwife who specialises in maternity aromatherapy. If you're receiving care at myGynaePlus, discuss aromatherapy options for your birth plan with your midwife.

Benefits of Pregnancy-Safe Aromatherapy

When used correctly, aromatherapy can provide multiple benefits of Aromatherapy in pregnancy:

• Physical Relief: Ease common pregnancy discomforts like nausea, headaches, muscle aches, and poor sleep without medication.

• Emotional Support: Reduce stress, anxiety, and mood swings through calming scents that promote emotional balance.

• Natural Approach: Provide gentle support for your body's changing needs using plant-based remedies.

• Labour Preparation: Create a calming environment and learn relaxation techniques that can help during birth.

  
  

Storage and Safety Precautions

Store all essential oils safely:

• Keep them in dark glass bottles away from light and heat

• Store them out of reach of children

• Check expiry dates and discard old oils

• Never leave oils unattended when diffusing

If you experience any adverse reactions like skin irritation, headaches, or nausea, stop using the oil immediately and speak with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Aromatherapy oils may be a safe way to help keep you and your baby healthy. Oils like lavender, chamomile and citrus have properties which help ease pregnancy symptoms, and also promote a sense of calm or happiness. But, first things first – safety is essential. 

Steer clear of unsafe oils like rosemary, sage, and clary sage (unless you are in labour). You should never use essential oils undiluted or ingest them. It’s important to ensure you’re using a high-quality product, using the correct dilution and you’ve consulted a qualified healthcare professional before embarking on an aromatherapy programme.

As always, myGynaePlus London’s best gynaecologist is on a mission to provide you and your baby with only the safest products and practices. Aromatherapy can be included as part of your pre-natal care programme when used safely, and with the correct guidance from a qualified aromatherapist. As always, our expert team is on hand to discuss what safe, natural therapies may work best for you, as part of your personalised pregnancy care programme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use aromatherapy oils in my first trimester?

It's best to avoid all essential oils during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This is the most critical period for foetal development, and even safe oils should be introduced only after this time. Your body is also adjusting to major hormonal changes, making you more sensitive to strong scents and potentially reactive to oils.

What's the difference between essential oils in toiletries and pure oils?

Shop-bought toiletries contain very low concentrations of essential oils, typically less than 0.01%, which is considered safe. Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and require dilution before use. Using undiluted oils on skin during pregnancy increases the risk of irritation and may expose you to higher concentrations than recommended.

Can aromatherapy oils really help with morning sickness?

Yes, certain oils can help when used through inhalation. Peppermint, ginger, and citrus oils have been reported by many pregnant women to ease nausea symptoms. Place a drop on a tissue and breathe in gently when feeling sick. Results vary between individuals, so try different options to find what works for you.

Do I need to tell my midwife I'm using essential oils?

Absolutely. Always inform your midwife or obstetrician about any complementary therapies you're using, including aromatherapy oils. They can provide guidance specific to your pregnancy and health history. Some medical conditions may make certain oils unsuitable, and your care team needs a complete picture of your wellbeing approach.

Where can I get reliable aromatherapy advice during pregnancy?

Seek guidance from qualified aromatherapists who specialise in maternity care, or consult with trained midwives. Many NHS hospitals have midwives trained in complementary therapies. At myGynaePlus, our experienced obstetrics team provides comprehensive support for all aspects of your pregnancy care, including advice on natural remedies and complementary approaches.