Pregnancy never ceases to amaze me. The fact that my body can grow another human being — and has done so three times — still feels miraculous. Each child I carried was entirely their own person, with distinct looks, personalities, abilities and, in two cases, gender. How did my body do that? It remains profound and, in equal measure, strange.
Alongside that wonder come very real physical changes: aches, twinges, stretches and surprises that make you think, “Nobody told me this would happen.” During pregnancy we seek relief but also want to be cautious about what we use. Personal care products are made by an industry with limited regulation, and topical products can be absorbed through the skin and affect the body — including the tiny life you’re nurturing. That makes ingredient awareness especially important.
Before you reach for the newest miracle product, know what’s in it. Can you recognize the ingredients? Are there potential side effects? Is there a simpler, safer alternative? Often, there is. Read labels, do a little research, and favor clear, understandable ingredients. Below are some thoughtful ways to use clean, simple products that worked well for me.
Itchy bellies
I used to picture a pregnant belly as soft, round and evenly shaped. In reality it can be firm, lopsided and pointy, and as the skin stretches the itch can be intense. A simple, ingredient-forward balm can be a lifesaver. The Unscented Organic Magic Balm, for example, is made from recognizable, food-like oils and butters — avocado oil, jojoba oil, beeswax, coconut oil, olive oil and hemp seed oil — all organic. When you can almost imagine the ingredients in a salad dressing, you have the confidence to apply them generously during pregnancy.
Massage the balm into your belly early and often to help soothe stretching skin and reduce discomfort.
Tired & swollen feet
Pregnancy often brings tired, sore and swollen feet. A few drops of peppermint essential oil mixed into the balm and massaged into the feet at the end of the day can feel incredibly refreshing. Lie back, elevate your feet and enjoy the relief.
That same peppermint-and-balm blend can also help with nasal congestion when you have a cold. Apply a thin layer on your chest, and for an extra trick that many find effective, rub a thicker layer onto the soles of your feet, put on socks and sleep. It can help clear your head and ease breathing — an odd but useful bedside remedy.
These remedies aren’t just for pregnancy; they’re comforting anytime. Keep the Unscented Magic Balm handy postpartum as well — it can help heal sore, cracked nipples for nursing mothers.
Fatigue, sweat & nausea
Fatigue, excessive sweating and nausea are common in pregnancy. Some essential oils can provide relief, but they are potent and a few are not recommended during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider before using specific oils.
Many castile soaps and body products use essential oils for scent, and several of those oils offer extra benefits:
- Peppermint — helps you feel cooler and refreshed; a peppermint shower or wash can be invigorating when you’re overheated.
- Lavender — calming and grounding; a lavender shower can help reduce stress and encourage deep breathing.
- Tea Tree — useful for balancing skin prone to blemishes that can occur during pregnancy.
- Unscented — when sensitivities are high and smells are off-putting, an unscented, mild formula minimizes irritation and can serve as a neutral base if you prefer to add your own safe scent combinations.
Despite helpful topical remedies, don’t forget the basics: stay hydrated, move your body as appropriate, eat whole foods and find moments of joy and laughter. No blend of oils replaces solid self-care habits.
Even with careful self-care, pregnancy may bring the occasional twinge. When it does, simple, safe products with transparent ingredients can make a real difference.
Further reading
- Using Castile Baby Mild Soap on Babies
- Washing Cloth Diapers with Sal Suds and Sunshine
- Six Tips for Choosing Better Baby Products
- A Little Balm Here and There