Pregnancy & Essential Oils: A Safe Scented Journey or a Risky Road?

At Megan & Willow Handcrafted Soaps & Skincare, we understand that pregnancy is a beautiful, transformative time. However, it’s also a period filled with questions about safety. One common question we hear is:

“Can I use essential oils during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?”

This blog will guide you through the science, risks, and gentle advice to help you make informed choices, whether you're expecting, nursing, or planning ahead.

Ultrasound of unborn Baby

Understanding Essential Oils

Essential oils are made up of tiny, fat-loving molecules. These molecules easily pass through the skin. When applied topically, especially when diluted in a carrier oil, they slip through the skin's outer barrier. They are absorbed into the bloodstream through tiny blood vessels in the deeper skin layers. From there, they circulate through the body, affecting everything from mood to muscle tension.

This is why careful dilution and oil selection is crucial during pregnancy. Both mother and baby can be affected by what is absorbed.

What the Research Says

A 2013 Australian study, “The Self-Prescribed Use of Aromatherapy Oils by Pregnant Women”, published in Science Direct, found that many pregnant women use essential oils without professional guidance. The study concluded:

“There is a clear need for greater communication between practitioners and patients regarding the use of aromatherapy oils during pregnancy… some of which may be unsafe.”

We couldn’t agree more. That’s why we’re here—not to scare you, but to inform you. You deserve to feel confident and supported in your decisions.

🚫 Essential Oils to Avoid in Pregnancy

Some essential oils are known to stimulate the uterus, disrupt hormones, or even have toxic effects on the nervous system. These should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

• Clary Sage, Sage, Fennel

• Wintergreen, Pennyroyal, Camphor

• Cinnamon, Oregano, Thyme (Red)

• Tansy, Wormwood, Mugwort, Basil

• Anise, Star Anise, Hyssop

  
  

Even common oils like peppermint and tea tree require caution. Peppermint can lower milk supply and may worsen reflux. Tea tree is generally safe topically in low concentrations but should never be ingested or used near mucous membranes.

What About After Baby Arrives?

In the postpartum period, which can last up to a year or more, your body is still healing and adapting. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Some essential oils can reduce milk supply (e.g., peppermint, sage).

• Babies are extremely sensitive to scents and certain oils.

• Use only baby-safe, low-dilution oils like lavender, chamomile, and frankincense—and never on or near your baby’s face, chest, or hands.

  
  

Fragrance Oils: A Hidden Risk

Unlike essential oils, fragrance oils are synthetic. They are made in labs to smell like natural scents but often contain phthalates, synthetic musks, and other undisclosed chemicals. These are problematic because they:

• May disrupt hormones, affecting fetal and infant development.

• Are poorly regulated and often untested for pregnancy safety.

• Can cause skin reactions, headaches, or nausea, especially in sensitive pregnancies.

  
  

We recommend avoiding fragrance oils altogether during pregnancy and breastfeeding, especially in leave-on products like lotions, perfumes, or body oils.

Safe Practices for Expectant & New Mothers

To ensure safety while using essential oils, consider the following practices:

• Wait until your second trimester to begin using essential oils.

• Choose oils considered safe (e.g., lavender, chamomile, citrus).

• Use only 0.5–1% dilutions in carrier oils.

• Stick to rinse-off products (like soap) rather than leave-on applications.

• Avoid the abdomen in early pregnancy and keep oils away from the breasts if you're nursing.

  
  

How Do You Feel Now?

We understand that this information can feel overwhelming. Honestly, reading through all this can feel like preparing to cross a minefield. That’s how I felt too. That’s why I’ve decided to avoid all essential and fragrance oils:

1. While trying to conceive.

2. During pregnancy.

3. While breastfeeding.

4. Until I’m fully out of the postpartum phase.

   
   

This decision gives me peace of mind—and that’s priceless.

Final Thought from Megan & Willow

We hope this blog has helped you feel more informed and empowered. Essential oils can be beautiful tools—but like all powerful tools, they need to be used with care. When in doubt, speak with your midwife, doctor, or a certified medical practitioner who understands your personal health journey.

Warm wishes to you and your growing family, —The Megan & Willow Team