CONSTIPATION

Constipation during pregnancy is uncomfortable, unhealthy for both the mother and the baby, and usually unnecessary if a sensible pattern of eating is followed. I was a vegetarian before any of my children were conceived, and as my diet was full of brown rice salads. wholemeal bread and mineral water, I was rarely bothered by discomfort. Whether we are vegetarian, 'fishetarian' or carnivore, there are certain foods which are best avoided, or, only eaten in small quantities. Cheese, too many eggs, white bread, and other white flour products will all increase the likelihood of constipation. Red meats, as they take many days to digest in the intestines, are more likely to aggravate constipation than salad vegetables, which are digested quicker. Most vegetables contain fibre, which gives the intestines something to get hold of, and so these should be eaten daily. Tension can also be a contributing factor towards constipation, and therefore relaxing baths are recommended.

For anyone who does suffer badly from constipation, I would recommend a massage of the lower back area using a simple blend of oils. Particular attention should be given to the area at either side of the spine, within the pelvic frame. If you can get a partner to massage this area for you be prepared for a little pain. as this area is always tender to the touch if the intestines are not functioning properly. It is possible to massage this area yourself while standing up, but don't cheat Apply some pressure to the sore spot, in the knowledge that a little discomfort now is better than the long?term discomfort of
constipation.

PURIFYING THE ATMOSPHERE

It used to be standard practice for doctors and midwives to don white facial masks before delivering the baby, but I hope this relatively pointless ritual has now been abandoned. Airborne bacteria are so tiny that they penetrate through the gauze masks as soon as the wearer speaks or coughs, so there seems little point in them being worn, unless it is for the psychological benefit of C the woman in labour. However, airborne bacteria are vulnerable, to essential oil vapours so, whether giving birth at home or in hospital, keep a small bowl of warm water by the bedside, to which to add your oils. Strong anti?bacterial essences should be used, preferably those with a light fragrance such as bergamot, lemon, lavender or niaouli. Eucalyptus could be used, or its cousin, myrtle, although some people would find these two oils lust a little too overpowering. Tea tree is a wonderful antiseptic oil, although the aroma is disliked by some people, I find that tea tree blends well with lavender or lemon, to produce a very fresh aroma which is antiseptic but also a million times nicer than hospital disinfectant smells.

By utilizing essential oils as a room purifier, you are protecting your immediate environment from the germs and viruses which constantly surround us. I once watched a doctor and some nurses don protective garments, face masks, and gloves before entering the room in which a sick child lay, and I wanted to ask them what measures they had taken to sterilize their shoes. So small are the bugs which cause us disease, that I eyes, but how wonderful that our nose can tell us whether or not we are being protected. I find it very comforting to know that whenever I inhale oil vapours I am breathing in vital forces which protect and strengthen me.