Essential Oils in Pregnancy: A Careful UK-Based Guide

Aromatherapy as a Complementary Extra — Not a Treatment

• Essential oils may help some people feel calmer, more relaxed or more “looked after” during pregnancy or labour.
• They are not used on the NHS to treat medical conditions such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes or severe nausea.
• You should always follow NHS advice on medicines, monitoring and referrals, even if you also choose to use aromatherapy.
• It’s important to tell your midwife or GP about any complementary therapies you are using on a regular basis, including essential oils.

Later Pregnancy & Labour — Often Under Midwife Guidance

In later pregnancy and labour, some NHS maternity units do offer aromatherapy as part of their comfort measures. When they do, it is normally:

• Only after a screening checklist to check for things like high-risk pregnancy, allergies, asthma or epilepsy.
• Delivered by midwives with extra aromatherapy training, following a written guideline or protocol.
• Using a small, carefully chosen group of oils (for example lavender, mandarin, peppermint, frankincense or clary sage) and clear dilution rules.
• In small amounts, for specific purposes such as supporting relaxation, easing tension or helping with the feeling of nausea in labour.

At home, it’s important not to assume that every oil used in a hospital setting will automatically be suitable for you. The safest approach is to check with your own midwife or GP before using essential oils regularly during pregnancy, and to keep your use modest even when they are happy for you to go ahead.

Small Studies on Relaxation, Sleep & Nausea

A number of small trials have looked at aromatherapy with oils such as lavender, citrus or peppermint, mainly in the second and third trimesters or during labour. Overall, they suggest that:

• Inhaling calming aromas like lavender may help some pregnant women feel less anxious and sleep a little better, especially when combined with good sleep habits.
• Light inhalation of certain scents (for example lemon or peppermint) may help some women cope better with feelings of nausea, although NHS guidance for morning sickness still focuses on diet, fluids and medicines where needed.
• During labour, some studies have found that aromatherapy can make women feel more relaxed or more in control of their coping strategies, even though it is not a pain treatment on its own.

These results are encouraging for comfort and mood, but they are not strong enough to treat essential oils as medical treatments. They also do not remove the need to follow NHS advice on medicines, monitoring or when to seek urgent help.

Gaps in the Evidence & Why Caution Still Matters

For many individual oils, especially in the first trimester, we simply do not have enough data to say they are completely risk free in all situations. Most research has been done in later pregnancy, with relatively short-term use and under supervision.

• There is limited information on the effects of regular, long-term use of specific oils throughout pregnancy, so services tend to focus on short, well-controlled use instead.
• Some oils are thought to have stimulating effects on the uterus in theory or in animal studies, which is why many UK maternity guidelines advise avoiding direct essential oil use in early pregnancy and being cautious later on.
• Online lists of “safe” and “unsafe” oils can be inconsistent and may not reflect UK or NHS-style guidance. It is much safer to discuss your own situation with a midwife, GP or pharmacist who knows your medical history.

Because of these gaps, the most sensible approach is to stay on the cautious side: avoid essential oils in the first trimester unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise, keep any later use modest and occasional, and always check in with your midwife or GP if you are unsure.

Golden Rules to Keep in Mind

• No internal use: do not swallow essential oils or add them to drinks or food. The guidance in this article is for external, aromatic use only.
• Be extra careful in the first trimester: many UK maternity services advise avoiding direct essential oil use in the first 12 weeks, mainly as a precaution because safety data is limited. If in doubt, check with your midwife or GP before using any oils.
• Use less than you normally would: pregnancy can make you more sensitive to smells. A smaller amount of oil is usually enough, especially in smaller rooms.
• Stop if you feel unwell: if you notice dizziness, headache, nausea, breathing changes, itching or a rash, switch off diffusers, ventilate the room, wash any oil off your skin and seek advice if symptoms persist.
• Tell your midwife or GP what you’re using: it is always helpful for your maternity team to know about any complementary therapies you use regularly, including essential oils, herbal products or supplements.

Simple Ways to Use Aromatherapy More Carefully

If you decide, together with your midwife or GP, that essential oils are appropriate for you later in pregnancy, these are some of the gentler options you might consider:

• Light inhalation: place 1–2 drops of oil on a tissue or cotton pad, hold it a short distance from your nose and take a few slow breaths. Avoid getting neat oil on your skin, and do not apply it directly under the nose.
• Short diffuser sessions: use fewer drops than usual (for example 2–4 drops in a 100 ml ultrasonic diffuser) and keep sessions to around 20–30 minutes in a well-ventilated room. Our guide to diffusion safety explains this in more detail.
• Very low-dilution massage oil: if your midwife or GP agrees, you could use a very gentle blend on intact skin, such as 1 drop of essential oil in 10 ml of carrier oil (around 0.5% dilution). Avoid the abdomen unless your maternity team has specifically advised it, and do not use oils on broken or irritated skin.
• Room and pillow sprays: ready-made sprays can be a practical option because they are pre-diluted and easy to control. Mist lightly into the air or onto bedding from a distance, and avoid spraying directly on the face. For general guidance, see our essential oil spray collection.
• One or two oils at a time: instead of using many different oils, it is usually safer to choose one or two that you and your maternity team are comfortable with, and use them occasionally in small amounts.

However you choose to use essential oils, keep the focus on gentle comfort, not on treating symptoms. If you have any questions about specific oils, timings or health conditions, your midwife, GP or pharmacist is always the best person to advise you.

Nausea & Morning Sickness

Nausea, especially in early pregnancy, is extremely common. NHS guidance for morning sickness focuses on things like small, frequent meals, keeping hydrated and, where needed, prescribed medicines. Aromatherapy is sometimes used as an extra comfort but should not delay you from getting medical advice if symptoms are strong or persistent.

• Gentle citrus or mint scents: some women find that inhaling light scents such as lemon or peppermint helps them cope with waves of nausea or strong smells. A simple approach is to put 1 drop of oil (for example a lemon or peppermint oil from our essential oils range) on a tissue and breathe in lightly when needed.
• Short, occasional use: because early pregnancy is a time of extra caution, it is best to keep any inhalation occasional and to stop if you feel worse, dizzy or unwell. Do not apply neat oils to your skin or swallow them.
• When to seek help: if you are struggling to keep food or fluids down, losing weight or feel very unwell, contact your midwife, GP or maternity unit as soon as possible. Aromatherapy is not suitable on its own for severe sickness.

Worry, Tension & Poor Sleep

Pregnancy can be an anxious time, and sleep often changes as your body and routine adjust. Some small studies suggest that calming aromas like lavender may help pregnant women feel more relaxed and support better sleep habits later in pregnancy, but they are not a cure for insomnia or anxiety.

• Bedtime wind-down: if your midwife or GP is happy for you to use oils, you might try a very small amount of lavender essential oil in a diffuser for 20–30 minutes before bed, in a well-ventilated room. Switch it off before you go to sleep.
• Soft pillow sprays: a light mist from a pre-diluted spray, such as a lavender-based pillow or room spray, can become part of a calming routine. Avoid spraying directly onto your face or very close to where you breathe all night.
• Pair with other supports: aromatherapy tends to work best alongside other NHS-recommended approaches, such as good sleep hygiene, talking therapies, antenatal classes and support from midwives or perinatal mental health teams when needed.

Aches, Tension & General Discomfort

Backache, leg cramps and general tension are all common in later pregnancy. NHS advice usually focuses on things like posture, gentle exercise, warm baths, suitable pain relief and physiotherapy when needed. Some maternity services add aromatherapy massage as an optional extra for relaxation.

• Gentle massage oils: if your midwife or GP agrees, you could use a very low dilution blend (for example 1 drop of lavender or mandarin in 10 ml of carrier oil) on areas such as shoulders, neck or feet. Avoid the abdomen unless a healthcare professional has specifically advised it.
• Warm baths: many people enjoy a warm bath for general comfort, but neat essential oils should not be added directly to bath water in pregnancy. If your midwife or GP is comfortable with you using them, always disperse oils properly (for example pre-mixed in a carrier or bath base) and keep amounts small. Our guide to essential oils in baths covers general safety points.
• Simple reset moments: even without massage or baths, a few slow breaths with a familiar scent on a tissue, plus gentle stretching or a short walk, can be a simple way to reset during the day.

If you notice new pain, swelling, headaches, visual changes or any other worrying symptoms, always contact your maternity unit or NHS 111 promptly. It is important not to rely on aromatherapy for symptoms that could need urgent assessment.

Nausea & Morning Sickness

Nausea, especially in early pregnancy, is extremely common. NHS guidance for morning sickness focuses on things like small, frequent meals, keeping hydrated and, where needed, prescribed medicines. Aromatherapy is sometimes used as an extra comfort but should not delay you from getting medical advice if symptoms are strong or persistent.

• Gentle citrus or mint scents: some women find that inhaling light scents such as lemon or peppermint helps them cope with waves of nausea or strong smells. A simple approach is to put 1 drop of oil (for example a lemon or peppermint oil from our essential oils range) on a tissue and breathe in lightly when needed.
• Short, occasional use: because early pregnancy is a time of extra caution, it is best to keep any inhalation occasional and to stop if you feel worse, dizzy or unwell. Do not apply neat oils to your skin or swallow them.
• When to seek help: if you are struggling to keep food or fluids down, losing weight or feel very unwell, contact your midwife, GP or maternity unit as soon as possible. Aromatherapy is not suitable on its own for severe sickness.

Worry, Tension & Poor Sleep

Pregnancy can be an anxious time, and sleep often changes as your body and routine adjust. Some small studies suggest that calming aromas like lavender may help pregnant women feel more relaxed and support better sleep habits later in pregnancy, but they are not a cure for insomnia or anxiety.

• Bedtime wind-down: if your midwife or GP is happy for you to use oils, you might try a very small amount of lavender essential oil in a diffuser for 20–30 minutes before bed, in a well-ventilated room. Switch it off before you go to sleep.
• Soft pillow sprays: a light mist from a pre-diluted spray, such as a lavender-based pillow or room spray, can become part of a calming routine. Avoid spraying directly onto your face or very close to where you breathe all night.
• Pair with other supports: aromatherapy tends to work best alongside other NHS-recommended approaches, such as good sleep hygiene, talking therapies, antenatal classes and support from midwives or perinatal mental health teams when needed.

Aches, Tension & General Discomfort

Backache, leg cramps and general tension are all common in later pregnancy. NHS advice usually focuses on things like posture, gentle exercise, warm baths, suitable pain relief and physiotherapy when needed. Some maternity services add aromatherapy massage as an optional extra for relaxation.

• Gentle massage oils: if your midwife or GP agrees, you could use a very low dilution blend (for example 1 drop of lavender or mandarin in 10 ml of carrier oil) on areas such as shoulders, neck or feet. Avoid the abdomen unless a healthcare professional has specifically advised it.
• Warm baths: many people enjoy a warm bath for general comfort, but neat essential oils should not be added directly to bath water in pregnancy. If your midwife or GP is comfortable with you using them, always disperse oils properly (for example pre-mixed in a carrier or bath base) and keep amounts small. Our guide to essential oils in baths covers general safety points.
• Simple reset moments: even without massage or baths, a few slow breaths with a familiar scent on a tissue, plus gentle stretching or a short walk, can be a simple way to reset during the day.

If you notice new pain, swelling, headaches, visual changes or any other worrying symptoms, always contact your maternity unit or NHS 111 promptly. It is important not to rely on aromatherapy for symptoms that could need urgent assessment.

Oils Commonly Used by Some NHS Maternity Units

Where NHS maternity units do offer aromatherapy, they usually work with a small, carefully chosen group of oils in late pregnancy and labour, and only after screening for any reasons not to use them. The exact list varies between hospitals, but it may include oils such as:

• Lavender — often used for relaxation and to support a calmer atmosphere.
• Mandarin or other gentle citrus oils — sometimes used for a light, uplifting scent.
• Peppermint — occasionally used via inhalation to help women cope better with feelings of nausea in labour.
• Frankincense, clary sage or other specific oils — sometimes used late in pregnancy or during labour under strict midwife guidance.

These oils are used in very specific ways: diluted, in small amounts, with clear written protocols and only when a trained midwife considers them appropriate. At home, it is not safe to assume that every oil on a hospital list will automatically be suitable for you. It is always best to ask your own maternity team for advice before choosing oils or blends.

Why Some Oils Are Treated with Extra Caution

Some essential oils are thought to have stimulating effects on the uterus in theory or in animal studies. Others may be more likely to irritate the skin, affect blood pressure or interact with existing conditions such as epilepsy or asthma. Because of this, many UK guidelines:

• Advise avoiding direct use of essential oils in the first trimester unless specifically agreed with a specialist.
• Recommend that even in later pregnancy, certain “stronger” oils are only used under professional guidance, or not used at all.
• Emphasise the importance of very low dilutions, patch testing and close monitoring for any unexpected reactions.

Rather than trying to memorise long lists, a safer approach is to decide on one or two simple options with your midwife or GP. For example, if they are happy for you to use a small amount of lavender essential oil or a gentle citrus oil later in pregnancy, you can focus on using just that in modest, carefully controlled ways.

Why We Are Not Providing a Full “Safe / Unsafe” List

It can be tempting to look for a simple checklist of which oils are “allowed” or “banned” in pregnancy. In reality, safety depends on many factors:

• The timing in pregnancy (first trimester versus later on).
• How often and how much of an oil you use.
• Whether you inhale it briefly or apply it to the skin, and at what dilution.
• Your own medical history, medicines and any pregnancy complications.

Because guidance can change as new evidence appears, and because individual circumstances differ, it is more responsible to encourage you to speak with your midwife, GP or pharmacist, and to use trusted UK resources such as NHS and BUMPS (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) when you have questions about specific oils.

Situations Where You Should Not Use Essential Oils Without Specialist Advice

You should avoid using essential oils on your own, and seek advice first, if any of the following apply:

• First trimester: because safety data is limited, many UK services recommend avoiding direct use of essential oils in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy unless specifically advised otherwise by a specialist.
• High-risk or complicated pregnancy: if you have conditions such as high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, a history of preterm labour, placenta problems or are carrying more than one baby, always check with your maternity team before using essential oils.
• History of epilepsy, severe asthma or strong allergies: strong scents (even natural ones) can sometimes trigger symptoms. In these situations, essential oils should only be considered with clear medical guidance, if at all.
• Migraine or headaches triggered by smells: if scents often bring on headaches or migraines for you, it is usually best to avoid essential oils during pregnancy unless your clinician suggests a specific plan.
• Any new or worrying symptoms: if you notice chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, severe itching, sudden swelling, visual changes or strong abdominal pain, seek urgent NHS advice. Do not rely on aromatherapy for symptoms that could be serious.

If You Have Already Used Essential Oils Before You Knew You Were Pregnant

It is very common to realise you are pregnant after you have already used diffusers, bath products, massage oils or fragranced cosmetics. For most people, this kind of incidental, everyday exposure is unlikely to cause harm on its own, especially if it was short term and in normal amounts.

• Do not panic: try not to worry if you used essential oils before you found out you were pregnant. Panicking is unlikely to help and can make you feel worse.
• Make a note: if you can, write down which products you used, roughly when, and how often. This can help your midwife or GP give more tailored reassurance.
• Discuss it at your next appointment: mention your previous use of oils to your midwife, GP or pharmacist. They can look at your overall pregnancy, medicines and scan results and advise whether any extra steps are needed.
• Focus on going forward: from this point on, follow NHS-style guidance: avoid essential oils in the first trimester unless advised otherwise, and keep any later use gentle, occasional and clearly agreed with your maternity team.

If you are ever advised to contact a specialist service (for example a teratology or medicines-in-pregnancy helpline), they can talk through your situation in more detail and help you and your clinicians plan the next steps.

Are essential oils safe in early pregnancy?

Because there is limited safety data for many oils in the first 12 weeks, a number of UK maternity services advise avoiding direct essential oil use in the first trimester unless a specialist has suggested otherwise. If you already used oils before you knew you were pregnant, mention this to your midwife or GP so they can reassure you based on your overall pregnancy.

Can I have aromatherapy on the NHS during labour?

Some NHS maternity units do offer aromatherapy in late pregnancy and labour, but it depends on your local hospital. Where it is available, it is usually provided by midwives with extra training, using a small set of carefully chosen oils and clear safety checks. Ask your midwife if your unit has an aromatherapy policy and how it works in practice.

Is lavender oil safe during pregnancy?

Lavender is one of the most commonly used essential oils in pregnancy research and NHS-based aromatherapy, mainly later in pregnancy and during labour. That does not mean it is automatically suitable for everyone. If you are thinking about using lavender essential oil, speak to your midwife or GP first, avoid it in the first trimester unless advised otherwise, and keep any later use light, occasional and well diluted.

Can I use essential oils if I am on prescribed medicines or have pregnancy complications?

Essential oils are usually used externally and in small amounts, but if you are on medicines such as blood pressure tablets, blood thinners, antidepressants or have conditions like pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes or asthma, you should always check with your midwife, GP or pharmacist before using them. They can explain whether aromatherapy is sensible in your situation.

What should I avoid when using essential oils at home while pregnant?

Avoid swallowing essential oils, using neat (undiluted) oils on your skin, long or heavily scented diffuser sessions, and any oils that your maternity team has advised against. Do not rely on aromatherapy for worrying symptoms such as bleeding, strong pain, reduced movements or severe sickness — these always need prompt NHS assessment.

What if my partner uses essential oils or diffusers at home?

If someone else in your household uses essential oils, ask them to keep amounts modest, avoid heavily scenting small rooms, and make sure spaces are well ventilated. You can also agree oil-free times or rooms if you find certain smells unpleasant or if they trigger headaches, nausea or breathing symptoms.

Can I keep using fragranced cosmetics and cleaning products?

Most people continue to use everyday fragranced products such as shampoos, soaps and cleaners during pregnancy. If you know a product contains essential oils, you can mention it to your midwife or pharmacist, especially if you use it very frequently. If any product makes you feel unwell or irritates your skin, it is sensible to stop using it and seek advice.

Where can I find reliable information about medicines and complementary therapies in pregnancy?

In the UK, good starting points include the NHS pregnancy pages at nhs.uk/pregnancy and the BUMPS (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) website, including their leaflet on essential oils in pregnancy. These resources can help you and your clinicians make informed decisions together.