I wrote this guide because we get a huge number of questions on this topic, and there is no definitive set of guidelines on the subject. There are a few good resources, but the information can be contradictory: one person says clary sage is no problem, another says avoid it at all costs. A practitioner with Traditional Chinese Medicine training avoids evergreen oils in pregnancy, while a traditionally trained aromatherapist uses them to increase energy and stamina. In addition, you probably have friends and coworkers who are promoting essential oils from multilevel marketing companies. In short, a pregnant person can end up pretty confused about the whether or not to avoid essential oils during pregnancy.
Are Essential Oils Safe During Pregnancy?
The short answer? Yes! As a western-trained physician and CEO of a natural skincare company, I’ve looked at the data, read the studies, and sought the opinions of expert aromatherapists. Below is my common sense guide to using essential oils in pregnancy that synthesizes all this great information while keeping a connection to evidence-based medicine. The chart below lists essential oils by category, to help you decide which oils, if any, you feel comfortable using. If you’re an aromatherapist, or working with one, you should feel free to explore the boundaries of this guide. But, if you just need some safe guidelines for using essential oils in pregnancy, here they are.
Why Avoid Synthetic Fragrance During Pregnancy?
Synthetic fragrance is one of the least transparent ingredients in personal care products. The single word “fragrance” or “parfum” can represent dozens—or even hundreds—of undisclosed chemicals, many of which are used to stabilize scent.
One of the most common categories of these chemicals is phthalates, which are used to help fragrance last longer. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors and have been associated with hormone disruption, reproductive effects, and developmental concerns.
Unlike essential oils, which are derived from plants, synthetic fragrance compounds are often petroleum-based and designed for consistency and longevity—not biological compatibility.
This is one of the reasons I recommend avoiding synthetic fragrance not just during pregnancy, but in general.
Are Essential Oils Safer Than Synthetic Fragrance?
When used properly, high-quality essential oils are generally a safer option than synthetic fragrance.
That does not mean they are risk-free. Essential oils are potent, biologically active compounds, and they require thoughtful use—especially during pregnancy. Some components can cross the placenta, and certain oils are not appropriate depending on timing, dose, and individual sensitivity.
However, professional aromatherapy organizations note that therapeutic-quality essential oils, used in low dilution, present relatively low risk compared to synthetic fragrance compounds.
In practical terms:
-
Synthetic fragrance = unknown mixture, often containing endocrine disruptors
-
Essential oils = known plant-derived compounds, used in controlled dilution
That’s why, in well-formulated skincare, a low concentration of appropriate essential oils is often a more transparent and biologically aligned choice than synthetic fragrance.
As always, pregnancy is a time to simplify. If your skin becomes reactive or your sense of smell shifts (which it often does), unscented products are the safest route.
How to Use Essential Oils Safely During Pregnancy
- Internal essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy because taking essential oils by mouth results in the greatest exposure to the developing baby. If you plan to use essential oils orally, you must do so under the guidance of a trained expert. They are potent medicines, and even beautiful, fragrant plants can be toxic!
- Using undiluted essential oils on the skin during pregnancy (and most other times) is not safe for many essential oils. Generally, I do not recommend undiluted topical application during pregnancy.
- Other methods of essential oil use include baths, inhalation, wash-off products, and leave-on products. This will come down to personal choice, but the safest plan is one you've heard before: everything in moderation! Use appropriate essential oils (see chart) moderately and in low concentrations.
- Keep in mind that your skin and your nose can be much more sensitive during pregnancy, so less is more. It's a time of many fluctuations, and skin issues during pregnancy are (unfortunately) not uncommon. Of note, phototoxicity is more common in pregnancy, so I’ve included a section in the chart about phototoxic oils.
- If you find that your skin is super sensitive or reactive during pregnancy, stick to unscented products.
- Lastly, and very importantly, remember that just because you used an essential oil in pregnancy does not mean it's safe for your newborn baby! Babies have sensitive skin, developing systems, and immature immune function, so most essential oils are too potent for babies under one year of age. I recommend using unscented products on babies under one, and then incorporating appropriate oils in moderation, with the guidance of an accredited aromatherapist.
Diffusing Essential Oils During Pregnancy
Diffusing essential oils is one of the lowest-risk ways to use them during pregnancy because exposure is relatively minimal compared to topical or internal use.
That said, more is not better. Use a few drops at a time, keep the room well ventilated, and take breaks rather than diffusing continuously.
If a scent makes you feel nauseated, headachy, or off in any way, trust that signal and turn it off. Pregnancy is not the time to push through discomfort in the name of wellness.
Which Essential Oils Are Safe During Pregnancy?
This essential oils safety chart is based on several factors. First, I reviewed the scientific information available online, including guidelines from the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA) and the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA). Then, I reached out to several nationally known aromatherapists** and had them review this chart, incorporating most of their suggestions. If you want to dig deeper on the available data, check out Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand.
FAQ: Essential Oils and Pregnancy
Can essential oils cause miscarriage?
There is no evidence that normal, diluted use of appropriate essential oils causes miscarriage. Problems arise with excessive use, internal use, or highly concentrated exposure.
Are essential oils safe in the first trimester?
Most caution comes from the first trimester, when fetal development is most sensitive. Using essential oils sparingly, in low dilution, and avoiding internal use is a reasonable approach.
Which essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy?
There is no universally agreed-upon list, which is part of the confusion. Some oils are more commonly cautioned against based on historical use or theoretical concerns. Reference the chart above to decide what feels right for you.
Is lavender oil safe during pregnancy?
Lavender is generally considered one of the gentler essential oils and is commonly used during pregnancy in low concentrations, though individual sensitivity always matters.
Can I use essential oils on my baby after birth?
No. Most essential oils are too potent for babies under one year of age. Stick to unscented products unless working with a trained professional.
Common Sense and Moderation
Above all, remember that most essential oils (except those in the first section of the table below) are safe in pregnancy when used in low dilutions, like a couple drops in a bath, a diffuser, or a massage oil. There are zero studies showing evidence of birth defects or miscarriages due to "normal use" of appropriate essential oils. Using large, undiluted quantities of any essential oils, either internally or on the skin, is a bad idea during pregnancy—and all other times!
If you have questions, please email us anytime at help@osmiaskincare.com—we're here to help!
With love and wishes for a relaxed, healthy pregnancy,
The information contained in this post is for educational interest only. This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any physical or mental illness, disease, or skin conditions.
**Very special thanks to Robert Tisserand, Hope Gillerman, and Amy Galper for their expertise and guidance. Though I may not please them all with my compilation of their opinions, I am fairly certain nobody will gasp in horror, and I am very certain this article provides safe guidelines for expectant mothers.
References:
National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA). Pregnancy Guidelines.
Read Guidelines
National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA). Safety in Aromatherapy.
Explore Safety Information
Tisserand R, Young R. Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals, 2nd Edition.
