The third trimester is the “home stretch” and may feel like the most difficult part of your pregnancy. Your body will feel awkward and heavy, making movement and sleep difficult. The fatigue felt earlier in your pregnancy may return and you may begin to feel your emotions change more often.
You may even experience the “nesting instinct” and want to deep clean the house! Be sure to remember the importance of relaxation and rest. Your body will also start to prepare for labor.
Diffuse or apply these essential oils to aid in sleep and relaxation:
• FRANKINCENSE
• LAVENDER
• RESTFUL BLEND
Perineum Massage is a debated practice that has been used to prepare the body for labor. It is meant to help the elasticity of the perineum and allow the baby to birth with minimal tearing. Many midwives use a peri-spray or a massage blend.
Essential oils that are commonly used for this include the following:
• GERANIUM
• FRANKINCENSE
It is extremely important to maintain hydration to help optimal gastrointestinal health. The following essential oils may soothe occasional rectal discomfort:
• CYPRESS
• HELICHRYSUM
• GERANIUM
• MELALEUCA
• PEPPERMINT
Maybe you haven’t started contractions, but baby has decided that head up is better than head down. Take a drop of PEPPERMINT and rub along the upper arch of your stomach, where the baby’s head is. Many women have had success getting their baby to rotate using this method.
Some women experience “Braxton Hicks” contractions, and some actually start to have productive contractions before their baby is ready to make his debut. LAVENDER massaged on your stomach can help relax your body and muscles.
LAVENDER has been used and cherished for centuries for its unmistakable aroma and myriad of therapeutic benefits. In ancient times, the Egyptians and Romans used LAVENDER for mummification, bathing, relaxation, cooking, and as a perfume; its ability to calm and soothe the mind and body continue to be its most notable qualities.
LAVENDER is frequently used to soothe skin irritations and help skin recover quickly. Applying it to the back of the neck and temples helps reduce muscle tension.
Inhaling LAVENDER promotes relaxation and a restful night’s sleep, making it an ideal oil to diffuse at bedtime and when stress levels are high.
Due to its versatility and soothing properties, LAVENDER is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times.
PRIMARY BENEFITS
• Widely used for its calming and relaxing qualities.
• Soothes occasional skin irritations.
• Reduces appearance of skin imperfections.
• Helps to ease feelings of tension.*
• Take internally to reduce anxious feelings.*
• Take internally for a peaceful sleep.*
PRIMARY USES
• Add a few drops of Lavender to pillows, bedding, or bottoms of feet for a restful night’s sleep.
• Freshen your linen closet, mattress, car, or the air with a light mist of Lavender combined with water in a spray bottle.
• Add to bath water to soak away stress or apply to the temples and the back of the neck.
• Use in cooking to soften citrus flavors and add a flavorful twist to marinades, baked goods, and desserts.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
DIFFUSE: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
INTERNAL: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
TOPICAL: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.
QUESTION – WHICH OF THESE THIRD TRIMESTER ISSUES WOULD YOU LIKE SUPPORT WITH?