ANTE-NATAL BODYCARE

To prevent stretch marks, geranium and
frankincense, in a calendula oil carrier, should be
massaged on to the abdomen area twice daily.
During the last trimester of pregnancy, it is a good idea to prepare for labour and to discuss with your midwife or doctor how you would like the birth to proceed. It is helpful to attend prenatal class, especially if it is the birth of your first child. The classes teach useful exercises to help you relax when the time for labour comes.

Preparing For Labour
Much of the pain childbirth, particularly with a first child, is due to the muscles at the neck of the uterus and the perineum being tense and/or inflexible, which means they can tear when stretched. This can be eased by the application of muscle-relaxing essential oils in a vegetable carrier oil. If application is begun daily from several weeks before the expected birth date, the are can be made supple and soft. This will prepare it for the enormous amount of expansion needed for the baby to be born.

Massage a little of the mix twice daily around the perineum area, and try inserting your fingers into the neck of the womb to stretch it, thus helping to prevent tearing.

As you get heavier, remember to keep increasing the area to which you are applying your essential blend to prevent stretch marks, taking your mix round the sides of your body, on the upper part of your thighs and above your breasts. It is also important at this time to rest your legs at regular intervals (from every five minutes to half an hour, if you suspect you are likely to develop varicose veins).

As the time for the birth approaches, you may experience conflicting emotions and mood swings. Using uplifting essential oils can give you inner strength to cope with all that is in store for you during this very exciting time in your life.

Make regular checks for oedema on your feet and ankles as your pregnancy progresses. If symptoms occur, a massage plan can help.

Massage the lower leg in an upwards direction to relieve aches and oedema.