Can a massage with essential oils make childbirth less painful and scary?

NCT ID NCT07652957

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Kutahya Health Sciences University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether Swedish massage with lavender or chamomile oils can help reduce pain, fear, and anxiety during labor. 90 pregnant women were split into three groups: one got massage with chamomile oil, one with lavender oil, and one with plain carrier oil. Researchers measured pain, anxiety, and fear levels at different stages of labor to see if the oils made a difference.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Swedish massage with natural oils (lavender, chamomile, or carrier oil)
What this could lead to: If effective, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to reduce pain and anxiety during childbirth.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study with 90 participants, so results may not apply to all women. The effects of the oils may be subtle and hard to separate from the massage itself.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

agnosia anxiety anxiety disorder Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANXIETY AROMATHERAPY CHILDBIRTH FEAR MIDWIFERY PAIN MANAGEMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Antalya City Hospital

Antalya, Center, 06000, Turkey (Türkiye)
Antalya City Hospital

Antalya, Center, 43000, Turkey (Türkiye)

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