An aromatherapy massage during pregnancy can really help reduce the discomfort and pain associated with pregnancy - particularly to the back, neck, legs and feet. However, there are some essential oils you really shouldn’t use whilst you are expecting. If you get a professional aromatherapy massage done, your therapist will be aware of this. However, if you just want to massage your own legs and feet, or get a friend to do it, you should be aware of the oils to avoid.

These include arnica, jasmine, cypress, aniseed, basil, and marjoram. If in doubt, check with the assistant in the health shop you buy them from. Online, it’s very easy to check.

Some of the aromatherapy oils that are suggested for use during pregnancy include geranium, neroli, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, lemon, petitgrain, and tangerine.