PREPARING FOR PREGNANCY

Once the menstrual cycle begins, becoming pregnant is a possibility until periods end at the menopause. Once an egg is fertilized, the body's hormones begin to change and can give rise to many symptoms, some of which can be helped with essential oils.

Fresh flowers bring beauty into our lives and stimulate feelings of happiness and well-being

After Conception
A normal pregnancy lasts approximately nine months. It is divided into three periods of approximately three months, known as trimesters. Once you realize that you are pregnant, you may experience a variety of emotions, ranging fro joy and delight to fear and apprehension. Towards the end of the first trimester your breasts may feel tender and your appetite may increase. At this stage you may develop a heightened sense of smell, and this may start to affect your food preferences.

The second trimester is probably the most enjoyable, as you gradually become accustomed to the physical and emotional aspects of having a baby. During this time, you can benefit from using essential oils to help with some of the stresses and strains you may be experiencing as you adjust to the changes that are taking place in your body. Remember that any essential oils you use for yourself will also reach your baby, and they should be used with are with common sense if you are both to reap the benefits.

By the third trimester you will look well and truly pregnant and your body will start to feel heavy and cumbersome. During this time you need more rest, preferably with your feet up, and you will be starting to make preparations for labour.

Throughout the pregnancy be sure to eat well. You also need to look after your teeth: your baby will take from whatever nutrition he or she need and it is you who will be deprived of essential nutrients such as calcium and iron. Listen to your body: a food craving can often indicate your baby's and your own body's needs. For example, a craving for cheese could mean your body needs more calcium and protein.

Two essential oils can be mixed together in an easy-to-use dropper bottle for effective self-treatment at home.

Cautions During Pregnancy
You may not know you are pregnant until two months have already passed. If you are trying to conceive, you should use only the more popular essential oils, in general use, at this time. By the fifth month of pregnancy, the baby should be firmly attached to the uterus, and any essential oils can be used. All essential oils should be used only in the recommended dosage.

Some essential oils have components in them which may induce a period or which can affect the nervous system if overused. Some of these oils may help to stimulate the uterus into action,and they should be used only when labour commences, to relieve labour pain. Used correctly, essential oils can alleviate many of the minor discomforts of pregnancy. Many women also find them invaluable during labour to ease pain and to facilitate delivery. However, some controversy exists surrounding the use of some essential oils during pregnancy.

A cool lavender compress can ease a tension headache. Lie or sit quietly in a place where you won't be disturbed and apply the compress to your temples or forehead until relief is felt.

A few essential oils have the ability to stimulate uterine contractions, and could possibly cause miscarriage if taken in excessive amounts or taken internally during the first three to four months of pregnancy. Other oils can have effect on the nervous system and the liver, and could be toxic when taken in too high a dose.

When oils are used correctly, the risks are very slight because of the low dosage involved (generally, five to ten drops at any one time). Women who have a history of miscarriage may be most at risk but, in any case, it is always better to err on the side of safety. Use only those essential oils which do not appear in any literature as being hazardous during pregnancy. There are many oils which will do you no harm at all but, if you are in any doubt about using an essential oil while pregnant, you should consult a qualified aromatherapist.

Whether this is your first pregnancy or whether you are already a mother, preparing for a new baby is an exciting time for all the family.



Whether pregnant or trying to start a family, the important thing to remember is that anything taken into the body, whether it is food, drink, nicotine, alcohol or any other substance, will have an effect upon the system. Sensible eating with plenty of sleep and regular exercise is the best way to look after yourself and prepare your body and mind for motherhood.

OILS TO AVOID DURING THE FIRST HALF OF PREGNANCY
Although all essential oils are safe when used with care and knowledge, it is advised that you avoid the following oils, which can promote menstruation:

• aniseed Pimpinella anisum
• fennel Foeniculum vulgare
• nutmeg Myristica fragrans
• sage Salvia officinalis
• yarrow Achillea millefolium

In addition, avoid any essential oil that is new to you at this time.