Is Aromatherapy Massage Safe For Pregnant Women?

The answer to this question is yes … and no.

Certainly, there are a number of oils, such as roman camomile and eucalyptus, which should not be used on mums-to-be. There are also a number of oils which are safe to use in small amounts, and some which are best used at the end of the pregnancy, during labour. So, before using any essential oil, you should check whether it is suitable for pregnancy.

The question of whether it is safe to use essential oils for massage during pregnancy is a contentious one. Some aromatherapists believe aromatherapy should be totally avoided during pregnancy, and others (like me) believe it is okay - provided six safeguards are followed.

These precautionary measures are important because the oils affect the unborn baby as much as they affect the mother-to-be. Molecules of essential oils are extremely small. This means they can penetrate the body through the skin, be absorbed into the bloodstream and through the placenta into the baby.

There is no doubt that massage is the perfect way to soothe every ache and pain in pregnancy. It relaxes the mother-to-be both physically and mentally, helping her to sleep better and feel more positive. Massage can also boost circulation and energy levels, improve digestion, relieve constipation, nurture and reassure her.

If you (or someone you know) is pregnant and considering the use of essential oils, please read the following safeguards carefully.

1. Use only pure essential oils - there's a huge difference between pure essential oils and fragrance essential oils. Pure oils are therapeutic; fragrance oils are not.

2. Do not use essential oils during the first three months of pregnancy - there's no reason why the mother-to-be can't massage her face, neck and shoulders in the first trimester, but she should avoid massaging her abdomen.

3. Use essential oils in low strength - the skin becomes more permeable and sensitive during pregnancy. There are few essential oils which can be applied directly to the skin, hence the use of 'carrier'. A safe rule here is to use no more than three drops of essential oil to 10 ml of carrier oil. One of the best oils to use (as a carrier oil) in pregnancy is sweet almond oil.

4. Always conduct a 24-hour patch test before using an essential oil for the first time (because the skin is more sensitive during pregnancy and some women become more sensitive to essential oils). Here's how to do a patch test: (i) mix one drop of essential oil in 5 ml of carrier oil and rub a little of the mixture into the crook of your arm. (ii) Leave for 24 hours. If there is no redness or itching, the oil is safe to use.

5. Avoid using essential oils when breastfeeding because the oils will affect the baby through the mother's milk.

6. Avoid citrus essential oils in sunlight - certain substances in citrus oils can react with UV light and have a photosensitizing effect on the skin, making it more likely to burn.

When massaging the abdomen, use the flat of your hand in flowing movements, in a clockwise direction. For the lower back, massage in big circles to relax the pelvic area and to ease backache and constipation.