Essential Oils during pregnancy: What you need to know

Pregnancy is a time when many people take a closer look at the products they use, including essential oils. If you’re wondering about essential oils during pregnancy, it’s worth knowing that while essential oils are natural plant extracts, natural does not automatically mean suitable for every stage of pregnancy. Their concentrated nature means extra care should be taken.

Can You Use Essential Oils During Pregnancy?

There is no simple list that makes every essential oil universally safe or unsafe for every pregnant person.

Safety can depend on the specific oil, concentration, method of use, stage of pregnancy and individual circumstances.

For this reason, pregnant women should speak with a qualified healthcare professional before using essential oils, particularly for topical application or regular use.

What About Dilution?

If topical use has been approved for you, dilution remains important.

Pregnancy is not the time to experiment with highly concentrated essential-oil blends or apply essential oils directly to the skin.

Using an appropriately diluted preparation can reduce the concentration applied to the skin.

Read our complete guide: How to Dilute Essential Oils Safely: A Beginner’s Guide.

What About Diffusing Essential Oils?

Diffusion is different from topical application because the oil is dispersed into the surrounding air.

However, that does not mean every essential oil is automatically appropriate for everyone.

Use essential oils cautiously, ensure adequate ventilation and seek professional advice if you are unsure.

Choose Carefully

When you are pregnant, it is better to be cautious than to assume that an essential oil is safe simply because it is natural.

If you are unsure about a particular essential oil, speak with your doctor, midwife or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional before using it.

For general information about choosing a carrier oil, see: How to Choose the Right Carrier Oil for Your Essential Oil Blend.