Authors (including presenting author) :
Wong MC(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prince of Wales Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Aromatherapy
Keyword 2: :
Birth experience
Introduction :
Pregnancy is a transformative journey accompanied by physical, emotional, and psychological changes. To promote well-being of labouring women, various interventions have been explored to enhance their relaxation and reduce stress levels. Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy using essential oils, extract from aromatic plants. It is evident that aromatherapy can help to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and reduce labour pain.
Objectives :
The purpose of this study is to promote well-being among labouring women during intrapartum period, so as to promote a positive birth experience.
Methodology :
On admission to the Antenatal Ward, leaflets were distributed to all labouring women to provide information of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy (inhalation) was introduced to low-risk women upon admission to the First Stage Ward. After obtaining their verbal consent and being screened no contraindications to essential oils by midwives, women could select from a tray of various essential oils, including Bergamot, Sweet Orange, Geranium and Mandarin. 2 drops of selected essential oil were applied on a plain gauze, attached to their collar by micropore. Women’s feedbacks and comments were collected and assessed by using a self-designed questionnaire after 30 minutes from commencement of aromatherapy. It was a 5-point Likert Scales questionnaire, measured the satisfaction or agreement on items (anxiety relieving, sense of control, relaxation promoting, pain relieving, worthiness to recommend) after using aromatherapy.
Result & Outcome :
Between April 2025 to June 2025, 90 women were approached and screened for suitability of using aromatherapy. Of these, 66 women enrolled into the study (73%), showing their interest in exploring this complementary therapy. The findings indicated a positive perception of aromatherapy among participants. 72% participants reported experiencing reduced anxiety level, highlighting the effectiveness of aromatherapy as a calming practice. 70% participants reported feeling sense of control and satisfaction when they could choose the essential oils based on their preference. Additionally, 81% participants reported feeling more relaxed, suggesting aromatherapy was effective for stress management. Furthermore, 93% participants would recommend to other women, regarding it as beneficial and satisfying among women. Most participants (78%) reported labour pain was similar with the use of aromatherapy. No negative feedbacks were reported with aromatherapy.
