Perineal Massage Oils: Which to Use in Pregnancy (and Which to Avoid)
The oils most commonly recommended for perineal massage are sweet almond, coconut, olive, grapeseed, jojoba, and apricot kernel — plain, unscented, plant-based oils that absorb well and keep the skin supple. The oils to avoid are perfumed or fragranced oils, baby oil and other mineral/petroleum oils, and undiluted essential oils, all of which can irritate this sensitive area.
Perineal massage is a technique used in the last weeks of pregnancy to soften the perineum and improve the elasticity of the skin and tissue between the vaginal opening and the anus. It is discussed by healthcare bodies including the World Health Organization and reviewed in the obstetric literature (such as the Cochrane review on antenatal perineal massage). A plain carrier oil simply makes the massage more comfortable. Below is how the common oils compare, when and how to use them, and the ones to skip.
What is the best oil to use for perineal massage?
There is no single "best" oil for perineal massage — any plain, unscented, plant-based oil works. The most widely recommended options:
| Oil | Texture / absorption | Key features | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet almond | Light, slow-absorbing, non-greasy | Hypoallergenic; contains vitamin E | The most cited first choice (avoid if you have a nut allergy) |
| Coconut | Easily absorbed | Plant-based, naturally antimicrobial, vitamin E | Choose unscented, organic |
| Olive | Heavier, stays slippery | Inexpensive, widely available | Extra-virgin can be applied directly |
| Grapeseed | Light, absorbs quickly | Vitamin E, omega fatty acids; suits all skin types | Good carrier oil for blends |
| Jojoba | Light, long-lasting | A liquid wax; rich in fatty acids and vitamins | Very long shelf life |
| Apricot kernel | Light, quickly absorbed | Vitamins A, C and E; oleic and linoleic acids | A gentle, nourishing option |
| Rosehip | Medium | Often part of a blend | Usually combined with other oils, not used alone |
| Evening primrose | Light | Sometimes used in blends | Evidence is mixed; ask your provider before using in pregnancy |
When should you start perineal massage?
Most guidance suggests starting around week 34–35 of pregnancy. The tissue tends to be most responsive in the final 4–6 weeks before your due date. If you're already past 34 weeks and haven't started, beginning at 36 or 38 weeks is still worthwhile. There is little evidence of added benefit from starting much earlier. Always check with your midwife or doctor about timing that's right for you.
How often and how long?
A common routine is 3–4 times a week, about 5–10 minutes each session (some midwives suggest 1–2 times a week). Consistency matters more than frequency — a regular weekly routine is more useful than occasional daily sessions, and doing it every single day does not add benefit. For step-by-step technique, see our guide to doing perineal massage solo or with a partner and the illustrated complete guide.
How do you apply the oil?
- Have a warm bath or shower first — this softens the skin so the oil absorbs more easily.
- Find a comfortable, private spot and wash your hands thoroughly.
- Apply a little oil to your thumbs (or fingers) and the perineal area.
- Use gentle, steady pressure as described in the technique guides above.
Because the area is hard to reach late in pregnancy, many people find a partner or a dedicated massage tool helpful. See our full perineal massage FAQ for more detail.
Which oils should you avoid?
- Perfumed or fragranced oils — anything listing "parfum" or "fragrance"
- Cream-based oils
- Water-soluble lubricants (fine as a lubricant, but they don't stay slippery long enough for massage)
- Mineral oil, baby oil, and petroleum jelly — these can irritate the skin
- Products with parabens (preservatives ending in "-paraben"), which can alter pH and cause irritation
A note on essential oils
Essential oils are not the same as carrier oils and should not be used undiluted on the perineum. Several are best avoided in late pregnancy because they may stimulate the uterus — including clary sage, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, oregano, thyme, fennel, and basil. If you want a scented blend, check with your healthcare provider first and do a patch test for sensitivity.
The oils in detail
Sweet almond oil
Sweet almond oil is light and slow-absorbing without feeling greasy, which keeps the skin lubricated throughout the massage. It is hypoallergenic for most people and contains vitamin E, and it is usually paraben- and mineral-oil-free. Avoid it if you have a nut allergy. You can also read about Perimom's own perineal massage oil (120 ml).
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is plant-based and absorbs easily, with naturally antimicrobial properties and vitamin E. It is common in heavier massage work. Choose an unscented, organic coconut oil; it can be solid at room temperature and melts on contact with skin.
Olive oil
Extra-virgin olive oil can be applied directly or used as a base combined with other oils. It is inexpensive, widely available, and stays slippery, which some people prefer.
Grapeseed oil
A by-product of winemaking, grapeseed oil is light, absorbs quickly, and suits all skin types. It contains vitamin E and omega-chain fatty acids, making it a useful carrier oil that improves the pliability of the skin.
Apricot kernel oil
Apricot oil (Prunus armeniaca) is a lightweight, quickly absorbed moisturizer rich in vitamins A, C and E and in oleic and linoleic acids — a gentle option for sensitive skin.
Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil (Simmondsia chinensis) is technically a liquid wax, rich in fatty acids and vitamins, with a long shelf life and good moisturizing properties.
Rosehip oil
Rosehip oil is usually used as part of a blend rather than alone. Some people use it during pregnancy in a wider skincare routine.
Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil is sometimes asked about for perineal massage and appears in some blends. The evidence around it is mixed, and opinions on its use in late pregnancy vary, so check with your midwife or doctor before using it.
Ready-made blends
If you prefer a pre-mixed product, options include Weleda Perineum Massage Oil (almond, vitamin E, wheat germ), the Natural Birthing Company's "Down Below," and My Expert Midwife's "Peri Prep." Whatever you choose, check the ingredient list for plain, unscented, plant-based oils and no added fragrance.
What else helps you prepare?
A massage oil is one part of birth preparation. Many people also build a maternity checklist for labor, try prenatal yoga, practice breathing techniques, and look at ways to manage stress in pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
What oil is best for perineal massage?
Plain natural oils such as sweet almond, grapeseed, olive, jojoba, or apricot kernel. Any unscented, plant-based oil works — consistency matters more than the specific oil.
Can I use coconut oil for perineal massage?
Yes. Choose unscented, organic coconut oil. It absorbs easily and is a popular choice.
Can you use baby oil for perineal massage?
It's best avoided. Baby oil, mineral oil, and petroleum jelly can irritate the skin.
Can I use olive oil or vitamin E oil?
Yes — both are commonly used. Extra-virgin olive oil works well, and vitamin E is found naturally in several of the recommended oils.
Can you use evening primrose oil for perineal massage?
It comes up often and appears in some blends, but the evidence is mixed and views on using it in late pregnancy differ. Check with your healthcare provider first.
When should I start perineal massage?
Usually around week 34–35 of pregnancy. Check with your healthcare provider about the right timing for you.
How often should I do perineal massage?
A common routine is 3–4 times a week for 5–10 minutes; some midwives suggest 1–2 times a week. Doing it daily does not add benefit.
Can my partner do the massage?
Yes. Because the area is hard to reach late in pregnancy, a partner's help can make it easier.
Are there any essential oils to avoid?
Yes. Avoid undiluted essential oils, and steer clear of clary sage, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, oregano, thyme, fennel, and basil in late pregnancy. Check with your provider before using any scented blend.
Is perineal massage suitable for everyone?
Not always. Some people — for example with certain placental positions or an active infection — should not do it. Always check with your midwife or doctor before starting.
