Pregnancy Aromatherapy Massage

Massage in pregnancy can offer a wide range of amazing benefits. It can offer ultimate relaxation but can offer valuable support to the body and mind at a time when the body is adapting to the physical, hormonal and emotional demands of pregnancy. Towards the end of pregnancy, massage can be particularly helpful in relieving back pain and muscle tension due to the weight of pregnancy. The baby also benefits from pregnancy massage as they are affected by stress from the mother. Oxytocin (the happy love hormone) acts as a fertiliser for their growing brain and plays a role in bonding. When aromatherapy essential oils are added in massage, it can take a pregnancy massage to another level!

Aromatherapy involves the use of highly concentrated essential oils extracted from plants in a variety of ways and used for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapy is thought to work by sending chemical messages to the limbic system of the brain which controls our emotions. This can happen by inhaling the aromas and by absorption via the skin, most commonly through massage.

Aromatherapy is an excellent tool in midwifery that can enhance the care and experience of the birthing person. It has been proven to reduce anxiety and aid relaxation which improves overall well-being. It works by increasing oxytocin (the love hormone) and reducing cortisol (the stress hormone). It can relieve pain and discomfort in pregnancy and help an array of pregnancy related ailments. Research shows that having regular aromatherapy therapies towards the end of pregnancy can increase the likelihood of going into labour spontaneously, facilitating physiological birth and reducing the need for medical intervention.