Studies have found that people who use aromatherapy during childbirth report greater comfort and satisfaction with their birth experience. Whether you’re planning to give birth at home, in hospital or in a midwife-led unit, aromatherapy has become very popular. Many NHS trusts now offer aromatherapy during labour, and their midwives are trained and keen to use it.
How does it work?
Different essential oils have different uses: some may help ease nausea and vomiting, while others may reduce anxiety.
In one large study, more than half of mothers rated aromatherapy as helpful for coping with labour and birth. In general, aromatherapy may promote relaxation, ease anxiety and lead to greater satisfaction with the birth experience. So far, no research has shown harm to mothers or babies from using aromatherapy during labour and birth. However, essential oils can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, so always check with your midwife first.
How can you use it during labour?
You could use your chosen essential oil, or a blend of oils, in any of these ways:
- in a diffuser, to scent the room
- a few drops on a (paper) fan
- on a warm or cool flannel
- on a cotton wool pad or ball
- on aromatherapy jewellery worn during labour
Benefits of aromatherapy for childbirth
- Affordable
- Simple to use
- Non-invasive
- May be an alternative to medical pain relief
- Can be used alongside medical pain relief
- May help ease anxiety and promote calm
- No evidence of harm to mother or baby
- Your midwives may enjoy the relaxing effects too!
References:
Burns EE, Blamey C, Ersser SJ, Barnetson L, Lloyd AJ. An investigation into the use of aromatherapy in intrapartum midwifery practice. J Altern Complement Med. 2000 Apr;6(2):141-7. doi: 10.1089/acm.2000.6.141. PMID: 10784271.
Tabatabaeichehr M, Mortazavi H. The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in the Management of Labor Pain and Anxiety: A Systematic Review. Ethiop J Health Sci. 2020;30(3):449-458. doi:10.4314/ejhs.v30i3.16