Using DōTerra Essential Oils for Labor and Birth

By Yvonne Novak, CD, CCCE, CLE

     I am a birth Doula, I assist couples through the process of labor and birth through support, both physically and emotionally. I feel so honored to welcome so many babies into the arms of their Mommy’s and Daddy’s and to be such an intimate and integral part of this experience.

     I find that using essential oils during this process helps to ease some of the discomforts of labor, give Mom’s the strength she needs to pursue the birth she desires, create a calm and serene atmosphere, and help to change the birthing rooms to more of a welcoming place, to name a few.

     During early labor using lavender to calm the early jitters, both for Mom and her partner by diffusing in the room or using with a carrier oil for light massage.

     As labor progresses, Jasmine is a wonderful oil to use. It helps to increase the intensity of the contractions but also acts as an analgesic, helping to take away some of the sensations of the contractions. This can be used on the lower abdomen or used with a carrier oil for massage.

     If labor has slowed and needs a bit of a boost, Myrrh can pick things up. I don’t normally put this on her body. I will diffuse into the room or put it on a cotton ball near her. So often the intensity of the contractions will pick up right away and I find that the aroma of the oil can then become an irritant to her.

Black Pepper is a great oil for back labor. If my client is experiencing back discomforts we will use Black Pepper mixed with a carrier oil to ease some of the pain. Clove or nutmeg can also be used for this same issue. Use care when using these oils as there can be skin sensitivity to them.

Rose Oil is Euphoric, it works as a uterine relaxant and it helps ligaments to soften enabling the pelvic bones to expand more easily.

Clary Sage facilitates birth as a euphoric and an analgesic, as a tonic to the respiratory muscles, the uterine system and calms the lower spinal cord.  Put 3-4 drops on the inner ankles to help speed labor up.

Peppermint when inhaled can help reduce anxiety and hypertension. It can be cooling on the lower back. It can help to ease nausea

Elevation is great for creating a joyful experience. Uplifting and calming

Serenity is a calming blend designed to reduce stress by calming the nervous system, creating a sense of well-being and improved health through the natural reduction of stress and its related symptoms. Lavender, sweet marjoram, roman chamomile, ylang ylang, sandalwood and vanilla bean create a subtle aroma ideal for aromatic diffusion or topical application.

Whisper-This perfectly balanced scent includes, patchouli, bergamot, sandalwood, rose, Jasmine, cinnamon, cistus, vetiver, ylang ylang, cocoa and vanilla. Subtly with distinctive notes is a modest descriptor for this unique and compelling natural fragrance. Whisper(TM) can be used topically and diffused into the air

Balance on the feet to help relax and increase a sense of courage to continue with the birthing process.

Neroli works on the nervous system, allowing it to relax.  It calms fear and anxiety, both of which will promote easy breathing, especially if mom is panting or about to hyperventilate.

     The use of essential oils during the birthing process can be used as another tool for the birth assistants and partners to help ease some of the discomforts of labor and create a loving environment.

Yvonne Novak CD,CCCE, CLE, CPD
Certified Birth Doula, Certified Childbirth Educator
Childbirth Educator and Lactation Trainer
www.doulawithlove.com

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These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.