Oil from the tea tree, or Melaleuca alternifolia plant, is used topically to treat conditions including fungal and certain vaginal infections. Like any essential oil, tea tree oil should be used with caution, especially by pregnant women. Avoid tea tree oil if you are pregnant, and talk with your obstetrician if you have questions about any over-the-counter or natural remedy. Pregnant women are at risk for all known side effects of tea tree oil, as well as those relating specifically to pregnancy.
Ingestion
Ingesting tea tree oil, even in small quantities, may cause a number of reactions, ranging from uncomfortable to potentially severe, according to Medline Plus. These include nausea, abdominal pain, lethargy, diarrhea, confusion, interference with proper immune system functioning, a burning sensation in the mouth and a severe rash. Pregnant women should avoid using tea tree oil in the mouth, even if it is not swallowed. Tea tree oil preparations for ingestion may also contain significant amounts of alcohol, which is contraindicated during pregnancy.
Topical Application
Dangers of topical application of tea tree oil include irritation, itching, redness, and rashes and blistering of the skin. These side effects may be minimized if the tea tree oil is diluted in a carrier oil. Tea tree oil products can also cause dry skin, which may be exacerbated by other normal skin changes during pregnancy. If you have preexisting skin conditions, such as eczema, you may be more likely to react badly to topical use of tea tree oil during pregnancy.
Contractions
According to Medline Plus, tea tree oil may lessen the effectiveness of spontaneous or naturally occurring contractions during labor. Ineffective contractions can prolong labor; a prolonged labor can lead to fetal distress, which may necessitate a Cesarean section.
Fetal Toxicity
The amount of tea tree oil that is toxic to a small child is very small, as little as 5 ml, according to Salisbury University's "A Nurse's Guide to Herbal Remedies." For an unborn baby, the amount of tea tree oil that would be toxic would be even less. If you are pregnant, do not use tea tree oil except under the direction and supervision of your obstetrician. You should also avoid the use of tea tree oil if you are breastfeeding.
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