Used peppermint oil without realizing it's not for pregnancy

ladyteach0505

my anxiety is through the roof right now. I know most people will probably say I'm nuts but I am genuinely upset. I had a headache at work and my friend pushed peppermint oil to help it. I told her I didn't want it but she insisted so I did a drop on my forehead. Lo and behold it's recommended against topical use in pregnancy because it may cause the uterus to shed lining. I know I've already done it, I took a shower and did my best to wipe it off, but should I call the doctor on call? I assume they'll tell me to look out for bleeding or contractions else I'm fine but I am so upset that I didn't stand firm about not using this.

scubakate

You're fine.

Shanfrey82

I think you're ok, such a small amount should not cause harm. I have a friend who is very into essential oils and said such a small amount should be ok especially just being placed on your forehead. I would just watch for any adverse reactions and not stress.

blankenbakerh

You are most likely fine! I use essential oils and while I have not used peppermint oil topically I have used it in my shower steam. Not a lot and not until after 1st trimester. At this point in pregnancy you will most likely be fine as I think it is mostly not recommended in the first trimester for those reasons. Although I read that peppermint oil sparingly past the 1st trimester is ok. I have anxiety as well and understand why you are feeling this way. I would watch for contractions or bleeding but I think you will be probably be ok. Maybe give your nurse a call to be on the safe side! I am sure it will at least make you feel a little better. Don't beat yourself up though! If you google peppermint oil in pregnancy there is an article on that shows safe oils and non safe oils. Peppermint is considered to be ok past the 1st trimester. I will see if I can copy the link for you for from my phone.

blankenbakerh

I will say there are debates over whether any essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy. This mostly due to the lack of knowledge on if and how much crosses the placenta, etc. They are conducting different studies which is why there is a lot of conflicting information out there. Again I love my essential oils and have avoided using them mostly during this pregnancy. I have like I said used the peppermint oil in the shower steam to help unclog my head when I had a nasty sinus infection. If you were using it all the time then I would say that you should most likely consult your doctor before doing so but just this once I am sure you will be fine. There are a lot of great books on the benefits of essential oils, which ones are considered safe during pregnancy and not. IMO you have to be very careful with essential oils as most you can not put directly on you without diluting them in almond oil, coconut oil, etc. because they are very caustic and can burn you if they are not diluted into a mixture. I know you are not using them while pregnant but for anyone who decides they want to use essential oils I suggest strongly educating yourself prior to using them so that you use them correctly:)

TBsquared

Young living says Peppermint is completely safe during pregnancy. Everything else I have read said its fine after 1st trimester. I use it all the time for headaches instead of tylenol.

NewMom7282

I rep for an oil company, you are ok I promise.

beaseg

I use peppermint oil for headaches when tylenol isn't cutting it. I had no idea it would be a problem. But I definitely used like probably upwards of at least 20 drops in the span of 2 weeks back when I was having headaches daily. There was no bleeding or problems and baby is very well and active. I think you're completely fine. Just do your best to relax and keep comfortable, for the sake of baby

jennygirlmt

I put it on my temples the other day for a headache. Not even thinking twice about it.

That said I'm doing a FB "class" next week by a YL rep focusing on the book "gentle babies." We will apparently learn uses during pregnancy, breastfeeding, infants and children. I'm exited to see what else to use my stash for.

eternalrose

jennygirlmt said:

I put it on my temples the other day for a headache. Not even thinking twice about it. That said I'm doing a FB "class" next week by a YL rep focusing on the book "gentle babies." We will apparently learn uses during pregnancy, breastfeeding, infants and children. I'm exited to see what else to use my stash for.

Slightly off topic (sorry OP) - please report back what you learn, I'm curious to hear about it.

jennygirlmt

eternalrose said:

jennygirlmt said:

I put it on my temples the other day for a headache. Not even thinking twice about it.

That said I'm doing a FB "class" next week by a YL rep focusing on the book "gentle babies." We will apparently learn uses during pregnancy, breastfeeding, infants and children. I'm exited to see what else to use my stash for.

Slightly off topic (sorry OP) - please report back what you learn, I'm curious to hear about it.

Definitely! It's next Wednesday!

TBsquared

I attended a gentle babies course early in pregnancy and also own the book. They recommend peppermint oil for various pregnancy symptoms including heartburn, nausea and headaches

ladyteach0505

Thanks so much everyone! The Internet has a LOT of articles about contractions, bleeding and breast feeding. I called my insuranxe nurse line Last night finally and she got on the FDA website and peppermint oil is listed as safe in pregnancy. BUT there are many that she read to me that are NOT safe for pregnancy. I wish I could remember them all. I know rose, Rosemary, and a certain kind of cinnamon were mentioned so it's worth doing your own research if you're into oils.

CTri17

I used young living peppermint oil and was the only way I survived my nausea and constant tension headaches in my first tri. As long as it is a reputable oil, you are fine.