Pregnant women in childbirth are being offered aromatherapy massage to help ease the pain of labour, reduce nausea and ease muscle aches and anxiety.

Twenty-four midwives working at the North Bristol NHS Trust have been trained on the chemistry of essential oils used in aromatherapy and how the techniques can alleviate stress during childbirth. If successful, the technique will be available in other areas of the country.

Mary Carlisle, manager of the birth suite at Southmead Hospital, told The Independent: “Aromatherapy reduces anxiety and fear by helping women feel more relaxed and can help to reduce symptoms such as heartburn or backache.”

“When women in labour are relaxed, their need for pain relief is reduced but every woman is individual and we can use the oils specific to their needs.”

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