With this in mind, the Family Birthing Suites has introduced several non-conventional methods that work well in tandem with traditional pain relief options to promote a comfortable environment. In One such option is aromatherapy, the use of natural plant oils whose scents provide for a positive sensory environment that increases feelings of well-being and is said to affect a variety of physical conditions. Mothers really love the aromatherapy and the oils have done their job at making labor a more soothing experience. Each oil that is used helps delivering mothers differently. When a mother needs help breathing, nurses may suggest neroli.
Lavender works well for calming, and nutmeg can decrease anxiety.
Other oils offered include clary-sage, which works well as a sedative, and geranium, which is a good stress reliever. Kristin Reef of Plainfield was delighted to be offered lavender during the delivery of her first child in the Family Birthing Suites. The Heat is On Another option is the rice sock, which is used to deliver heat. The sock is covered and placed on the neck, forehead, shoulders, lower back or lower abdomen to increase circulation, relieve muscle tension, increase the mother's pain threshold or simply enhance relaxation. A few drops of oil may be added to the rice sock to provide the benefits of aromatherapy as well.