So, during pregnancy there are three main moments: the three trimesters! Each of these periods has its specific challenges:
1st Trimester
The main symptoms that some women experience during the first trimester are: nausea, fatigue and mood swings. The emotional and/or psychological adjustments during this phase are also important to consider.
2nd Trimester
The issues on focus during the second trimester are: dry skin, stretch marks, sensitive skin, puffiness, back soreness, leg cramping and heartburn.
3rd Trimester
During the third trimester the main common complaints are: joint swelling and overall puffiness, mobility issues, constipation and hemorroids, difficulty sleeping, frequent urination and fatigue.
So the main essential oils to support during this period are: Lavender, Geranium, Roman Chamomile, Lemon, Fennel, Peppermint, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Helichrysum, Wild Orange, Ylang Ylang, Ginger and Cypress.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these ailments:
For constipation massage in stomach: Lemon, Peppermint or Fennel diluted. Peppermint can be particularly strong so depending on how comfortable you are with the oils, you may prefer to use Fennel or Lemon (remember that after applying photosensitive oils like Lemon you can’t take sun on that skin area).
To fight depression the best oils are Frankincense and Ylang Ylang. They should be used aromatically so use a diffuser to spread their aroma whenever you are feeling down.
To combat fatigue: Lemon, Grapefruit, Wild Orange and Peppermint can come to the rescue. Dilute one of these oils and massage into back, shoulders or neck.
To face nausea and/or vomiting the best supporters are Ginger or Peppermint. The best is to inhale their aroma, so use them in the diffuser. You may also massage the feet or jawline, but you must previously prepare the blend, since any of these two oils may be a bit strong. You should use 5 drops for a 15mL oil bottle and then gently massage in the skin.
To promote a restful sleep: Lavender, Roman Chamomile or Vetiver are good supporters. Use them in the diffuser to spread their aroma or smell them directly from the bottle. You may also blend one drop of one of them with a carrier oil and apply in the bottom of the feet.
For preventing stretch marks: Frankincense and Geranium are wonderful solutions. Prepare a blend with a few drops of these oils (8 of one of them or 5 of each of them to a 15mL bottle) and gently massage the skin.
To relieve joint swelling and overall puffiness use Lemon, Cypress, Lavender or Ginger. Prepare a blend with a carrier oil (5 drops of one of the oils for a 15mL bottle of carrier oil). Massage into the legs, ankles and feet. You may also add 3 drops to cool water and soak your feet and legs in it.
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