Clary Sage in Pregnancy: Should You Use It or Avoid It?

If you’ve looked into natural oils to use, you may be considering clary sage in pregnancy. It’s often talked about as a way to relax, stimulate contractions, or even help kickstart labour. But is it actually safe?

There’s a lot of confusing and conflicting advice online about clary sage, and unfortunately, some of it is misleading and even unsafe.

So let’s set the record straight—what clary sage is, what it actually does, and why it’s not always the best idea to use it in pregnancy.

What Is Clary Sage?

Clary sage is an essential oil extracted from the Salvia sclarea plant. It’s commonly used in aromatherapy for its calming effects, and some studies suggest it can help with muscle relaxation and hormone balance.

In pregnancy, clary sage is often claimed to help induce labour naturally—but the truth is, there’s very little scientific evidence to support this.

Why Do People Use Clary Sage for Labour?

Some women are told that clary sage can:
✅ Encourage contractions by stimulating the uterus.
✅ Help with relaxation and stress relief (which can support oxytocin production).
✅ Strengthen contractions once labour has already started.

Sounds great, right? The problem is that clary sage isn’t always used correctly—and in some cases, it could be harmful rather than helpful.

Is Clary Sage Safe in Pregnancy?

The short answer? It depends.

🚨 Clary Sage is NOT safe to use before 37 weeks.

Clary sage can stimulate the uterus, which might trigger contractions too early.
There’s no strong evidence it causes preterm labour, but it’s still best avoided until full term.

✅ It MAY be safe to use at 37+ weeks—but only with caution.

Clary sage won’t magically induce labour, but it could help once your body is already preparing for birth.
Some midwives use it to enhance contractions once labour has started, but this should always be done with guidance.

Why We Should Be Cautious About Recommending Clary Sage

While clary sage has been used for centuries, it’s not risk-free. Many midwives advise against recommending it broadly because:

1. It’s Often Misused

Some women use it too early in pregnancy, thinking it will “kickstart” labour.
Others apply too much or use it incorrectly, leading to discomfort or intense contractions.

2. It Can Cause Painful, Irregular Contractions

If your body isn’t ready for labour, clary sage won’t help progress things—it may just make contractions uncomfortable but ineffective.
This can lead to exhaustion rather than a smooth labour.

3. It’s Not Well-Regulated

Unlike medications, essential oils aren’t controlled by strict dosage guidelines.
Some people are more sensitive to essential oils and may have reactions like nausea, dizziness, or headaches.

4. It’s Not a Labour Induction Method

Some women are led to believe that clary sage is a “natural induction” tool, but it doesn’t actually trigger labour unless your body is already ready.
Labour starts when the baby and your body are prepared—not because of an essential oil.

How to Use Clary Sage Safely (If You Choose To)

If you’re past 37 weeks and want to try clary sage, always check with your midwife first. If they approve, here’s how to use it safely:

1. Diffusion (Best for Relaxation & Labour Prep)

✅ Add a few drops to a diffuser in your room.
✅ Helps with calming the mind and reducing stress—which is important for labour.

2. Massage (Only in Established Labour)

✅ Mix 2-3 drops with a carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil).
✅ Gently massage onto your lower back or feet—but avoid direct application to your bump.

3. Warm Bath (For Relaxation, Not Induction)

✅ Add a couple of drops to warm bathwater.
✅ Helps ease tension and stress rather than “bringing on labour.”

🚨 DO NOT:
❌ Use clary sage before 37 weeks.
❌ Apply it directly to the skin undiluted.
❌ Expect it to instantly start labour—it doesn’t work that way.

Who Should Avoid Clary Sage?

🚨 Do NOT use clary sage if you:
❌ Are before 37 weeks pregnant.
❌ Have a high-risk pregnancy or have been advised against labour induction.
❌ Have a history of preterm labour.
❌ Are sensitive to strong scents or essential oils.

So, Should We Be Advising Women to Use It?

Honestly? No—not as general advice.

Midwives and birth professionals who deeply understand pregnancy physiology often recommend against encouraging widespread clary sage use because of the risks if used incorrectly.

Instead, the best advice is:
💡 “Some women use clary sage in late pregnancy, but always check with your midwife before trying it.”

If you wish to use it you should follow clear and cautious advice.

Safer Alternatives for Natural Labour Prep

Instead of relying on essential oils, here are some safe and effective ways to prepare for labour:

✅ Movement & Positions – Walking, bouncing on a birth ball, and hip-opening exercises can help baby move into position.
✅ Relaxation Techniques – Hypnobirthing, deep breathing, and warm baths support oxytocin production (the hormone that drives labour).
✅ Pregnancy Yoga – Gentle stretching and breathing exercises reduce tension and prepare your body for birth.

💜 Looking for safe, expert-led pregnancy stretches? Our Pregnancy Yoga Class is designed to help with aches, tension, and natural birth preparation.

👉 Sign up here: Pregnancy Yoga Class

Final Thoughts

While clary sage isn’t inherently dangerous, it’s often misused and misunderstood. It’s not a magic labour inducer, and if used incorrectly, it can cause more harm than good.

💡 The safest approach? Focus on natural labour prep methods that are backed by evidence—and always check with your midwife before using any essential oils in pregnancy.

💜 Want to learn more about safe and effective labour prep?

Join our FREE Natural Labour & Birth class, where we cover what actually works to get your body ready for birth—without unnecessary risks.

👉 Sign up here: Natural Labour & Birth Class