Even though I found being pregnant to be a most enjoyable experience, I can also attest to the challenges that pregnancy presents. As each trimester unfolds in a pregnancy the body undergoes many dramatic changes including a heightened sensitivity to taste and smell, change in body shape, morning sickness, memory lapses as well as the inevitable emotional roller coaster ride. Essential oils can play a significant role in balancing the ups and downs and bring some pleasure to what should be the most rewarding time of a woman's life.

During the first trimester some of us go through the morning sickness stage. Everyone is unique but if you've endured this you do have to wonder, "Why me?" All though not all essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy, many are. As far as my knowledge from essential oil research and teaching is concerned there is no evidence of anyone having pregnancy issues as a result of the overuse of essential oils. For the most part paranoia is on the increase so don't be throwing the baby out with the bath water. Subtle aromatherapy during pregnancy is a wonderful way to introduce the softness of scent to your unborn child.

The first trimester is also the time when the sense of taste and smell are heightened and the skin is more permeable. Certain smells can seem sickly sweet or too strong and can turn one's stomach. This is the body's own natural protection mechanism so it is important to listen to the changes you are going through. Using a mist spray with spearmint essential oil may help with nausea or if you prefer something more earthy and warming try ginger essential oil in a mist spray. A warm lemon drink last thing at night and first thing in the morning (if you are feeling nauseas get your partner to make it so you can have it before you get up) followed by gentle slapping with your hand over the liver (the liver is found under the right breast). This technique worked not only for me but for other woman to whom I have recommended it to.

During the second trimester hopefully the morning sickness will be gone and you can start to feel good about yourself again. Citrus essential oils can be used to help prevent stretch marks and this is the best time to begin your prevention ritual. A safe and effective bath and massage oil is the New Life blend containing essential oils of Tangerine, Neroli and Sandalwood in a base of Sweet Almond, Apricot, Avocado, Carrot, Camelia and Wheatgerm oils. Use this to massage the tummy and thighs not forgetting breasts and buttocks. These beautifully moisturising oils will keep your skin soft and supple. The Joyous blend of essential oils of Tangerine, Lime, Grapefruit and Sandalwood in a base of Sweet Almond, Apricot and Wheatgerm oils is another ready made alternative. Not only will these oils help with your skin condition they will also help your mood especially if you already have young toddlers or babies to care for.

When birthing time is approaching and you get that nesting feeling this is the perfect time to get some oils organised for the big day. Once you are in labour you tend to have enough to focus on and it's a time to stay calm allowing your breath to guide you. This is where the support person comes in handy as your partner can also have enough to focus on when labour drags on. The support person can be more detached and is there to make you feel as comfortable as possible. It would be good to have the support person and partner learn a simple figure of eight massage technique over the sacrum to perform during labour. This feels wonderful so get them to practise well before you go into labour. Otherwise the midwives these days have had massage experience which really is a bonus as they know what you are going through and are not afraid to be assertive if you need them.

A massage blend can be prepared yourself or a perfect choice would be the Romantic Bath and Massage oil to create that intimate, loving mood so that you and your partner remember this special occasion for future recollection as a joyous experience. It is a beautiful blend of Rose Maroc Absolute, Sandalwood Mysore, Musk SeedC02, and Neroli Petals. The Romantic Massage blend contains natural and organic carrier oils of Sweet Almond, Apricot, Avocado, Camelia, Jojoba, Wheatgerm, Evening Primrose and Vitamin E oils. Anyone would take pleasure in applying this gorgeous blend of oils I'm sure.

Happy pregnancy!

About the Author

Angela Power has a background spanning over 25 years in medical nursing and as a Natural Therapist since 1988. She is renowned for her ability to provide knowledge through her real life experiences & her website, Aromatherapy and Essential Oils at the Garden Apothecary provides information on the benefits of aromatherapy and the therapeutic use of essential oils.