Aromatherapy can be a great addition for pain relief in a natural labor. Many women want to avoid drugs and look for alternative methods for relieving pain. However, fear and anxiety in labor increase pain and make some women opt for the drugs. Aromatherapy can help relieve the fear and anxiety that are so common in labor.
Massage also feels great for many laboring women. In addition, massage can help relieve tension and anxiety. Massage and aromatherapy can easily be combined to give you the best of both methods during labor. Get a small bottle and fill with either organic oil or plain, unscented lotion. Add the appropriate essential oil for your needs and stage of labor.
In early labor, the physical pain is less intense and often not very regular. However, many women feel anxious, nervous or fearful, particularly if this is the first labor. Conventional wisdom tells us to rest during this stage in order to save energy for later, when the contractions become more intense. Lavender oil is great for this phase because it has relaxation properties. This can help you get the rest you need.
During active labor, the contractions become more regular and intense. Most women go to the hospital during this phase. The atmosphere of the hospital can make the anxiety level in some women increase dramatically. It’s important to stay relaxed, since anxiety and fear cause the body to work against itself. Excessive fear can make labor take longer. Use lavender oil with a drop each of rose and heroli to keep you relaxed during active labor.
The transition phase is when your cervix dilates from seven to ten centimeters. This phase is the most difficult. Many women feel symptoms such as nausea, shaking and feeling out of control. In addition, you may be exhausted, especially if this is a long labor. You need to relax, get past the fear and relieve the exhaustion associated with transition.
Combine a few essential oils for this time. Lavender is helpful for relaxation, while sage and peppermint are invigorating and can help you overcome the exhaustion. Consider combining lavender and peppermint for the transition phase.
Once you have fully dilated, it will be time to push. You will need every bit of energy you can muster for this stage. Some women get to this stage and feel they can’t go on. Aromatherapy oils can help invigorate you and give you the energy you need to push your baby out. Peppermint and rosemary are good for this purpose. Consider putting a drop of each onto a cotton ball and breathe in as needed. This is the home stretch; you will be holding your baby when it’s over.