The Effectiveness of Lavender Aromatherapy on Anxiety Levels in Pregnant Women Facing Childbirth

Abstract

Anxiety during pregnancy, especially near childbirth, is common and can negatively affect both maternal and fetal health. High anxiety levels are linked to increased pain perception, longer labor, and higher risks of complications. Non-pharmacological interventions, like aromatherapy, are safe, simple, and effective in reducing anxiety. Lavender aromatherapy, known for its calming properties, has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being in various populations, including pregnant women. However, limited research in Indonesian community health settings has been conducted on its effectiveness during the prenatal period. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy in reducing anxiety levels in pregnant women approaching childbirth. Using an observational analytical design with a pretest-posttest approach, the study involved 30 pregnant women selected via purposive sampling. Anxiety levels were measured before and after the lavender aromatherapy intervention using a validated questionnaire. The aromatherapy was applied through inhalation for a standardized duration. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed a significant reduction in anxiety levels (p = 0.000). All participants experienced decreased anxiety, with no reported adverse effects. In conclusion, lavender aromatherapy is an effective and safe non-pharmacological intervention for reducing anxiety in pregnant women, supporting its integration into prenatal care programs to enhance maternal mental health and readiness for labor.