Pregnancy has always been a time when I have been so thankful for my knowledge of essential oils and aromatherapy. I am not one of those women who carry pregnancy beautifully. I gain tons of weight, have heartburn and gas, swell up and sleep all of the time. Even though I am not the perfect pregnancy specimen, I still feel like one with aromatherapy.

When I lived with midwives as a teen, I first saw the results of aromatherapy on pregnancy. For my own pregnancy, I expanded upon this knowledge. I discovered that a wonderful thing about aromatherapy when pregnant and after the babies are born is that it gives you a reason to take the time to heal and pamper yourself. What could be better than pampering “medicine”?

I originally formulated the following blends for myself in 1996. Pregnant women,midwives and doulas in the United States have since used them.

Leg Cramp Oil
This oil is so soothing and relaxing on tired muscles. It is not only great for leg cramps, but also for varicose veins, varicosities and sore backs. Put the following ingredients into a container and shake well before using:

• 2 ounces St. John’s Wort oil
• 5 drops neroli essential oil
• 5 drops grapefruit essential oil

Belly Balm or Stretch Mark Prevention Oil
This oil feels wonderful going on. It is smooth and moisturizing and can help with the itching that so often happens when the skin starts stretching. In a double boiler, melt the carrier oils listed below. Carrier oils are nut or seed oils, like almond oil, shea butter, coconut butter and olive oil, for example. These are pressed and not distilled.

• 1 cup coconut oil
• ¼ cup cocoa butter
• 1/8 cup apricot, almond or grapeseed oil
• 1/8 cup Kukui nut oil, shea butter or mango butter (I love using mango butter.)

When these oils have melted completely, remove the mixture from the heat. Allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes, then add the essential oils listed below. Essential oils are distilled from leaves, seeds, roots and flowers that are very concentrated and fragrant. Transfer the blend to a container and allow it to cool completely before using.

• 10-20 drops sandalwood (try to purchase from an ethical source*)
• 15 drops patchouli
• 15 drops sweet orange essential oil

There are additional options for essential oils. Use what you like and/or can find locally. You can also try rosewood, rose, lavender, tangerine and neroli. If you blend your own mixture, be sure to keep the amount of essential oils used at less than 50 drops total.

Massage the balm all over thighs, breasts, stomach and anywhere else that needs nourishing and moisturizing. I have also used this on my face. Living in the Green Mountains, I often need a protector from the frigid winds for my fair skin.

Nausea Spray
Add the following to four ounces of distilled water and use in a spray bottle:

• 20 drops spearmint essential oil
• 15 drops lemon essential oil
• 5 drops sweet orange essential oil

Shake the mixture well and mist the air with it when a woman feels nauseous. You may find that different women prefer other types of scents, so you can also try ginger, neroli and rosewood. Experiment to find the mixture that works best. When making an alternative blend, keep the amount of essential oils used at less than 60 drops.

Labor Mists
The point of using mists during labor is to be as noninvasive as possible. Every person is different and has individual needs. Make sure that you understand and know the person you are making a blend for because the wrong blend can assault the senses. In our need to help, we do not want to create something not so beautiful for a mother.

Relax and Focus
This is a relaxing blend to promote clarity and focus. Fill a four-ounce spray bottle almost full with distilled water and add:

• 20 drops grapefruit essential oil
• 15 drops sweet orange essential oil
• 10 drops spearmint essential oil

Shake well and mist labor room. You can also make a compress by misting a wet cloth with the blend and applying it to the laboring mother’s forehead or back. This mist is great for fathers, too.

Uplift
Transition can be a trying and tiring time for the mother. We want to support her and use a mist blend that will ground and calm her and help lift her spirits. Add water to spray bottle as
above and add:

• 15 drops mandarin essential oil
• 10 drops bergamot essential oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops Clary sage essential oil

This is a strong blend and it should be used away from the mother. Never spray the mother directly. Always remember to use essential oils with education and care. Research each oil before use, especially in regard to pregnancy and labor.

* Companies that are ethical sources try to use plants that are sown and harvested for essential oil use specifically. When plants are taken from the wild, these companies insist that they be taken from a sustainable source only.

Author: Demetria Clark
About the author: Demetria Clark is a childbirth doula and runs Heart of Herbs Herbal School in Vermont (see her Web site at Heart of Herbs ). She lives with her husband and two sons, and is currently writing an herbal sourcebook for mothers. Originally printed in BirthKit www.midwiferytoday.com

Image Source: http://flickr.com/photos/cafemama/2112984619/

A pregnancy calendar is a fun and informative way to keep track of your pregnancy and ensure a healthy outcome for you and your baby. For most women, pregnancy and birth is one of the key points in life and a pregnancy calendar will help you live the experience to the fullest. Detailed week-by-week information about the bodily changes happening to yourself and your baby, as well as handy advice regarding everything from nutrition to exercise, are just some of the things pregnancy calendars have to offer.

Standard features of most pregnancy calendars include: how to take care of yourself throughout each stage of pregnancy; tips on how to meet increasing nutritional needs while staying physically fit; and how much weight you should gain during pregnancy. Some may also include a detailed outline of your baby’s weekly development and instructions from the experts on how to ensure that you both progress the way that you should. Many pregnancy calendars can be customized to fit your own unique personality and include spaces for a diary and a record to keep track of doctor’s appointments and other important dates.

Pregnancy calendars are fun to use and, best of all, they are often free or cost a minimal amount. Many internet sources offer free downloads of pregnancy calendars and a simple online search will reveal dozens of choices. Most can be personalized and some websites will even send you e-mail alerts as important milestones draw near. Some pregnancy-related or Women’s and Children’s Health magazines offer a free pregnancy calendar to paid subscribers.

Huggies offers an excellent pregnancy calendar while American Adoptions has an online version accompanied by weekly updates. American Baby and Pregnancy Weekly both have calendars that are available online and can be personalized. Baby Fit features a week-by-week, development-specific pregnancy calendar while Baby Center has create-your-own pregnancy calendar options and tools. The choices are endless and the results amazing. Many people treasure their pregnancy calendars as keepsakes or use them to compare with future pregnancies.

Most pregnancy calendars are very simple and user-friendly. Anyone can understand them and the facts are presented in a clear-cut, down-to-earth manner. The hardest part for most people is calculating the due date, but this is usually provided by your physician. Even if it is not, most pregnancy calendars include instructions on how to calculate the due date that are easy to understand for even the most math illiterate person.

Pregnancy is no longer just a 9-month waiting period for the big day. With the help of a pregnancy calendar, expectant mothers can become actively involved in all the exciting changes of pregnancy, while at the same time benefiting their health. A handy source for expert advice, it can also do much to alleviate anxiety, as the due date looms closer. The truth is, a pregnancy calendar is just one excellent way to make the most of your pregnancy.

About the author:
Celia Nemart writes about family and medical issues on the internet, Celia is a dedicated mother that is aware of the dangers of the lack of information about Pregnancy.

Image Source: http://flickr.com/photos/kahunna/445837177/

This short video clip shows the basic prenatal yoga positions including stretches, pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), strength building poses, standing poses and sitting poses.

This is an excerpt from Gaiam’s prenatal yoga DVD. You can follow along with these poses and if you decide you enjoy the poses you can sign up for a local pre-natal yoga class, get a book to follow along or buy a prenatal yoga DVD. Prenatal yoga is an excellent and safe way to maximize maternal and fetal health and prepare for childbirth.

Shop the Natural Pregnancy Store for natural pregnancy books, prenatal fitness DVDs, prenatal vitamins and supplements and organic pregnancy items. ]]> http://pregnancy.amuchbetterway.com/gaiam-prenatal-yoga-dvd/feed/ http://pregnancy.amuchbetterway.com/pregnant-fashionable-looking-good-are/ http://pregnancy.amuchbetterway.com/pregnant-fashionable-looking-good-are/#comments Mon, 28 May 2007 20:24:18 +0000 Natural Pregnancy http://amuchbetterway.com/pregnancy/2007/05/28/pregnant-fashionable-looking-good-are/
Author: Julian Hall

If you’re apprehensive about your pregnancy transformation, remember the changes are happening for a good reason: You are creating a new human being! Bearing that in mind, here are a few pointers to help you revel in your nine-month metamorphosis while not totally losing sight of your non-pregnant self.

Don’t neglect your skin

Pregnancy hormones can wreak havoc on your skin. Your complexion may look great, with that pregnancy glow, break out like it hasn’t since you were a teen or it may become drier and look splotchy. However, this is not the time to change products keep to your usual regime but maybe just add a good organic moisturizer or olive oil which can work wonders anywhere skin feels dry including over that expanding belly!

Don’t underestimate the power of organic makeup

Makeup can do wonders during pregnancy (just make sure it is organic). It can be used as a tool to feel pretty and in control. This is particularly important during a time when many women feel they have lost control of their body. So go ahead and have some fun: Try a new shade of lipstick or eye shadow. Makeup can be washed off, it isn’t permanent, and its a great way to give yourself a quick pick-me-up.

Avoid hair-raising hairstyle changes

One big pregnancy perk due to hormone changes is thicker, more lustrous locks. Some women also notice that the texture of their hair changes or their locks become shinier. If you normally have a thick head of hair and fear that any more will be unmanageable, you may find a shorter cut easier to wear while you’re pregnant. But, it is not advisable to go for a dramatic change as your body is going through enough changes as it is. Work with your stylist to find a cut that suits you. Use clips, combs and other hair accessories to enhance your style, but don’t overdo it, less is more and you may regret an emotionally driven drastic change.

Enhance your inner fashion

Today there are so many hip maternity clothes available that your biggest challenge will be sticking to your budget. With so many great choices, you should have no trouble finding something that suits your style. Unlike in the past when there were only a couple of specialized places to find maternity wear now many department stores carry their own lines at reasonable prices.

Here is a tip for your maternity wardrobe. Buy a few basics you can mix and match, for example a pair of black, denim and beige trousers, Capris or shorts (depending on the season). These can then be rotated with various colored tunics, shirts and cardigans and also used for various occasions. Accessorizing can also make you feel better or give an outfit that little extra. Just by adding some chunky jewelry or a pretty scarf can make all the difference.

Do not buy loads in advance, wait and see how you change and buy your clothes accordingly, otherwise you could end up with items you never wear but you thought looked cute in the shop.

Talk yourself into a good mood

If all else fails, remind yourself that even though you cant squeeze into a slinky dress or your favorite jeans right now, you are still fabulous. Beauty is a state of mind and not a certain look, size, or weight. You are glowing, you are pregnant, and you are beautiful!

About the author:
Julian Hall of GiftBabies.co.uk - The Baby Gifts Company - The Most Unique, Innovative Gift Ideas for Babies, Christening Gifts, Newborn Gifts, Personalized Gifts, Organic Clothing, Nappies, Blankets, New Baby Gifts

Shop for organic makeup, personal care, bath and beauty items at http://amuchbetterstore.com

Shop for natural and organic pregnancy items at http://amuchbetterstore.com

Check how toxic your cosmetics are at Skin Deep’s database of safety ratings for nearly 25,000 personal care products for people wanting to avoid ingredients such as mercury, lead and human placenta extract.

Image Source: http://flickr.com/photos/misocrazy/68152880/

Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese method of using tiny needles to stimulate specific areas or “meridians” of the body and to rebalance the body’s energy, or chi. Because acupuncture is especially effective for chronic conditions, many pregnant women are turning to acupuncture to provide drug-free relief from many of the unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy.

An Australian study showed that women who received acupuncture treatments regularly before their 14th week of pregnancy had less nausea and shorter bouts of morning sickness than women who did not receive the treatment. Acupuncture has also been used to treat the more serious condition hyperemesis gravidarum, which causes serious vomiting that persists throughout pregnancy.

During the second trimester, acupuncture has been used to successfully treat heartburn and hemorrhoids. In the third trimester, acupuncture can provide relief from sciatica, joint pain and carpal tunnel syndrome, which many women develop late in pregnancy. Acupuncture has even been used to relieve pain during labor and delivery.

Pregnant women seeking to use acupuncture to treat conditions developed during pregnancy should be sure to visit a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. For example, although acupuncture can be used to treat edema, or swelling of the ankles, edema can be an indicator of a serious problem. An acupuncturist experienced in treating pregnant women would be more likely to recognize this problem and refer the patient back to her obstetrician.

The most serious risk of using acupuncture during pregnancy is that it may stimulate labor if it is improperly applied. Choosing an experienced practitioner reduces this risk to almost negligible levels. In fact, many women have turned to acupuncture to purposefully stimulate labor when their baby is overdue. Some women have found that labor induced by acupuncture is gentler than labor induced by drugs such as Pitocin.

In addition to benefits during pregnancy, labor and delivery, acupuncture has been used to promote fertility and to treat infertility . In a small German study, women who used acupuncture in conjunction with in vitro fertilization had a 42.5% success rate compared to 26.3% in women who used in vitro fertilization alone. Fertility specialists attribute this to the overall improvement of health that comes from receiving regular acupuncture treatments.

Finally, acupuncture may have some benefits in treating post-partum depression. Although no research has been done to support the efficacy of acupuncture treatments on post-partum depression, anecdotal evidence shows that some women do benefit from its use. Because acupuncture does not cause harmful drug interactions, it can be a useful complementary therapy.

Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles for http://4alternativehealthinfo.com/ - In addition, Jonathon also writes articles for http://thenursingcenter.com/ and http://letsdropsomeweight.com/

Prenatal belly dancing is also an excellent exercise during early labor to help move your baby into position, relax and energize you for the coming event.

“In addition to its many physical benefits, prenatal yoga helps women through the evolutionary process of pregnancy by connecting with other pregnant women, allowing the opportunity for inward reflection, providing a healthy physical and emotional outlet for one’s experiences, and ultimately preparing one for birth on a holistic level.” Source : Expectant Mother’s Guide

Author: Michelle Oberton
Prenatal yoga is an exercise that is designed to promote breathing exercises, posture and emotional relaxation. This approach is often sought by pregnant women who are preparing for a natural childbirth or who wish to stay physically and emotionally healthy during their pregnancy. One of the many benefits of prenatal yoga is the lack of physical exertion that is required, which makes it a safe practice for many moms-to-be.

Due to the pain that can be associated with childbirth, prenatal yoga attempts to promote proper breathing that will help to make the process an easier one. In addition, relaxation is essential during the childbirth process and although it can be difficult, prenatal yoga can help to teach women how to relax themselves and their pelvic floor as much as possible.

For some, prenatal yoga may be sought as part of a spiritual process that helps them to connect with their unborn child and/or prepare for the new arrival. In some cases, prenatal yoga may even be beneficial after the birth as it instills techniques that are associated with relaxation. As every new mom knows, there is a definite need for postpartum relaxation.

For some, prenatal yoga may help women to return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly than others. For most, this is a struggle that takes a lot of patience and determination. In general, yoga is an exercise that promotes physical fitness, relaxation, breathing, spiritual and emotional connections, etc.

“Benefits of Prenatal Yoga
· Increase energy
· Decrease anxiety
· Strengthen birthing muscles
· Quicken postpartum recovery
· Improve sleep
· Reduce backache
· Improve circulation
· Increase chance of a healthy birth”
Natural Family Online

If you are searching for a prenatal yoga class or instructor, the best place to start is through your physician. During your next visit, ask the doctor if prenatal yoga would be safe for you and, if so, who you could contact for instruction. Most physicians are aware of any local classes or instruction being given and will often be able to refer patients to a class that is most convenient for them.

Most women prefer that the father of their child or a friend or family member attend prenatal yoga classes for support and guidance. Having someone familiar will also make the classes more enjoyable and relaxing for the mom-to-be. Before enrolling in prenatal yoga, it’s best to make sure that the instructor is licensed, certified or highly trained and experienced in teaching this type of relaxation method.

The information in this article is to be used for informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice. Anyone with questions regarding prenatal yoga must consult their physician for further information.

Sheryl’s comment: If you are looking for a prenatal yoga class in your area, you may not have much luck if you simply ask your doctor unless your doctor is a Naturopath or particularly young or open minded. You might have more luck if you are working with a midwife. If that fails, check your yellow pages, local YMCA or health club or bulletin board at your local health food store.

I love using yoga DVDs first thing in the morning. While you may miss out on the camaraderie that comes with meeting other pregnant women, many people find it is much easier to pop in a DVD in their pajamas, than to trek across town in full yoga gear.

About the Author:
Want to learn more about prenatal yoga? Make sure you visit our site at: http://www.prenatalyogaguide.info for access to additional prenatal yoga tips and information.

Image Source: http://flickr.com/photos/sausyn/1355727034/