Inducing Labor with Aromatherapy

Inducing Labor with Aromatherapy

Health care providers will caution women against using aromatherapy during pregnancy. Some herbs may be too strong for some women, causing allergic reactions, headaches, nausea, etc. However, there are some types of aromatherapy that are safe to use at home to induce labor. Women who choose to use aromatherapy to induce labor should only use it if they have reached or passed their due date to minimize any adverse effects. The use of aromatherapy to induce labor should always be used with caution.

Lavender

Lavender is naturally calming and relaxing and can often be found used in bath washes and lotions. It is said to help relieve stress and cause the body to lose tension. In order for labor to begin, the mother must be stress-free and relaxed. Contractions will not begin if the body is too tense so the use of Lavender is suggested to ease that tension and welcome the on-set of labor.

Evening Primrose Oil

This oil is believed to stimulate the uterus and cause contractions. In capsule form, Primrose can be taken orally or can be inserted vaginally to help soften and thin the cervix for dilation.

Clary sage

Clary sage is more helpful as an aromatherapy treatment once contractions have begun. Because it is said to be antispasmodic, clary can help ease the pain of contractions during labor. In large doses, however, clary sage can be highly toxic and is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy.

Basilica and Oregano

Basilica, commonly known as basil, is an herb said to stimulate the uterus and help cause contractions due to its potency.

Like basilica, oregano is said to stimulate the uterus to induce labor. It is also known to be quite potent and should be used with caution.

Both herbs should only be used if the mother has reached her due date and wants to induce labor by starting contractions.

Expectant mothers should always consult their physician before using any type of aromatherapy during pregnancy. Women who choose to use aromatherapy as a method of labor induction must wait until they have reached at least 38 weeks pregnant, though physicians would most likely recommend waiting until they have reached or passed their due date.

Remember to consult your doctor or midwife before attempting this.