Natural pain relief during labour (candles, aromatherapy)?

Question

hi, I am writing up my birth plan and am hoping to have a water birth (providing all goes well) but I was wondering if anyone knew of any good relaxing scented candles / incense / aromatherapy oils that are beneficial during labour to help me relax etc... as i would like as natural a birth as possible.

thanks x

Answer 1

I would think geranium would be good.  

I agree not to get too caught up in a plan since if things do not go as planned you will be very upset.

You can find good cheap scented candles at http://www.meet-your-soul-mate.com/

Answer 2

You cannot have lit candles in the hospital or birthing suite due to the explosion issues in conjunction with the facilities' oxygen supplies.  

Bringing in your own pillows, scents, quiet music and such is always welcome.

Oh - and a birthing ball can be a life saver for back labor.

Answer 3

Seriously, don't bother with a birth plan.  You never know what it's going to be like or how you will feel until you get there.  It might be lovely or you might be screaming for an epidural.

My plan was "as natural as possible but with medical intervention if necessary" and I just got on with it.  No pain relief, no husband present or anything like that.  I was fine.

Good luck!