Antenatal Care - Skin Care During Pregnancy

In the beginning of the pregnancy, the plain Jurlique Jojoba Carrier Oil, Jurlique Body Care Lotion and Body Care Oil are recommended as all-over body moisturizers. These are non-greasy and easily absorbed into the skin.

After the first 3 months, introduce Jurlique Lavender Massage Oil or a mixture of Jurlique Carrier Oil and Mandarin Essential Oil, such as Baby's Colic Relief Oil. Lavender is very calming, while Mandarin gives a fresh scent as well as being helpful in times of stress. Both are very nourishing for the skin.

To help reduce stretch marks later, use Jurlique Hops Lotion 2-3 times daily from about the 5th month of pregnancy until 8-10 weeks after childbirth.

A very important part of antenatal care is massaging and stretching the perineum, this will help to prevent tearing and therefore avoid those painful stitches. Two to three months before the due date, gently massage and stretch the perineum at least once daily with Jurlique Jojoba Carrier Oil. This is best done by standing.

For Expectant and New Mothers

Mother's Pampering Ritual: So much time and energy is spent caring for the baby that mothers often forget to spend time caring for themselves. It is important to take time out to pamper and nurture yourself so that you can continue to feel happy, healthy and able to continue caring for baby.

For Your Face: Using the full Jurlique facial ritual once or twice daily will keep your skin radiant and alive. Begin this ritual before baby is born so that it becomes a healthy, nurturing habit to continue after the birth of your baby.

For Your Body: Run a relaxing bath and add a capful of Jurlique Tranquil Pure Bath Oil or a tablespoon of Lavender/Lavandin Aromatic Hydrating Concentrate to create a luxurious bath. The essential oils impart the benefits of Herbal Aromomatics while they moisturize and protect your skin.

Foot and Leg Care: Jurlique Foot & Leg Care Lotion (not recommended first 6 months, thereafter under guidance of your practitioner) cools and refreshes as it brings instant relief to tired, swollen, aching feet and legs. Excellent before and after birth.

Cramps: Massaging your legs with Jurlique Geranium Body Oil can help prevent or relieve cramps during pregnancy.

During Labor: The scent of Jurlique Clary Sage Essential Oil is very soothing and helpful during contractions. (Do not use during pregnancy - ONLY during labor). Put a few drops onto cotton wool and inhale with each contraction. It is a good idea to add a few drops of Jurlique Clarity Blend to Jurlique Jojoba Carrier Oil for massaging your abdomen and lower back.

Sore/Cracked Nipples: Calendula-C Cream and Baby's Calming Massage Oil will help to soothe this delicate area. You could also use Baby's Soothing Cream for this purpose. Be sure to gently wash the products off with warm water before feeding.

Engorged Breasts and Mastitis: Compress Jurlique Arnica Lotion (diluted 1:5 with water that has been boiled and then cooled) into the breast for a cooling, soothing effect.

For You and Your Partner

Life with a newborn can sometimes put a strain on your relationship. Tiredness, fear, stress and, possibly, Post Natal Depression can drain a mother's emotional resources.

Reaffirm your bond by taking turns to give each other a sensual massage with Jurlique Romance Blend Body Oil. You might also enjoy a bath (together or by yourself) with Ylang Ylang Bath Salts and/or Romance Bath Oil.

Quiet time together is of the essence... although not always easy to find. When you are alone together, light a Jurlique Candle, or use a Jurlique Burner with either Romance Blend, Pampering Blend or Energizer Blend Essential Oil.

Partner taking turns to tend to baby's night time restlessness will also enhance your relationship, as mother will be more relaxed and very appreciative.

PLEASE NOTE: The following essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy (except on your natural practitioner's advice): Basil, Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Cinnamon, Fennel, Jasmine, Juniper, Myrrh, Marjoram, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage and Thyme. Clary Sage may be used during labour, but not prior to that time.