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Gestational hypertension is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in Indonesia. Non-pharmacological interventions such as lavender aromatherapy have gained attention as complementary therapies due to their natural properties and minimal side effects. This study aims to evaluate the effect of lavender aromatherapy on blood pressure among pregnant women with gestational hypertension. The research employed a quasi-experimental design using a one-group pretest-posttest approach. A total of 15 participants meeting the inclusion criteria received an intervention consisting of lavender aromatherapy inhalation for 10–15 minutes. The results showed a decrease in mean systolic blood pressure from 141.53 mmHg before the intervention to 139.27 mmHg after the intervention. However, the mean diastolic blood pressure slightly increased from 90.20 mmHg to 90.27 mmHg. The reduction in systolic pressure indicates a potential relaxation effect of lavender, likely mediated through parasympathetic nervous system stimulation. Although the change in diastolic pressure was minimal and not clinically significant, these findings support the use of lavender aromatherapy as a supportive approach in managing blood pressure in pregnant women with gestational hypertension. This complementary therapy is expected to enhance maternal healthcare, particularly in improving comfort and reducing stress during pregnancy.

Background: Anxiety before childbirth is a psychological disorder often experienced by pregnant women, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. Fear of pain, worry about the condition of the fetus, and uncertainty about the delivery process are the main triggering factors. If not handled properly, this anxiety can have serious consequences, such as increased stress hormones (cortisol), sleep disorders, high blood pressure, and even labor complications. Therefore, interventions are needed that not only focus on physical aspects, but also support mental and emotional balance. Objective: The purpose of this activity is to provide education and practical training to pregnant women on anxiety management before childbirth through the application of complementary therapies, and to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach in increasing the readiness and calmness of participants. Method: The activity was carried out at PMB Lismarini, Tulungagung, involving 20 pregnant women in their third trimester. Education was carried out interactively using visual media and group discussions. Next, participants participated in the practice of three types of complementary therapies: (1) deep breathing relaxation with diaphragmatic breathing techniques, (2) aromatherapy using lavender as a relaxation agent, and (3) classical music with a slow rhythm played during the session. Results: This activity showed positive results. Eighty-five percent of participants experienced an increase in knowledge scores after the educational session, and 60% showed a significant decrease in anxiety levels based on questionnaire results. Most participants also reported feeling calmer, more prepared, and more confident in facing childbirth. The satisfaction rate with the activity reached 90%, indicating that the methods implemented were well-received by participants. Conclusion: Complementary therapy combined with education is effective in helping pregnant women manage anxiety before childbirth. This activity emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to antenatal care.

Background: Anxiety before childbirth is a psychological disorder often experienced by pregnant women, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. Fear of pain, worry about the condition of the fetus, and uncertainty about the delivery process are the main triggering factors. If not handled properly, this anxiety can have serious consequences, such as increased stress hormones (cortisol), sleep disorders, high blood pressure, and even labor complications. Therefore, interventions are needed that not only focus on physical aspects, but also support mental and emotional balance. Objective: The purpose of this activity is to provide education and practical training to pregnant women on anxiety management before childbirth through the application of complementary therapies, and to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach in increasing the readiness and calmness of participants. Method: The activity was carried out at PMB Lismarini, Tulungagung, involving 20 pregnant women in their third trimester. Education was carried out interactively using visual media and group discussions. Next, participants participated in the practice of three types of complementary therapies: (1) deep breathing relaxation with diaphragmatic breathing techniques, (2) aromatherapy using lavender as a relaxation agent, and (3) classical music with a slow rhythm played during the session. Results: This activity showed positive results. Eighty-five percent of participants experienced an increase in knowledge scores after the educational session, and 60% showed a significant decrease in anxiety levels based on questionnaire results. Most participants also reported feeling calmer, more prepared, and more confident in facing childbirth. The satisfaction rate with the activity reached 90%, indicating that the methods implemented were well-received by participants. Conclusion: Complementary therapy combined with education is effective in helping pregnant women manage anxiety before childbirth. This activity emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to antenatal care.

Pregnancy affects various aspects of women's physical and mental health. One factor that often occurs in pregnant women is stress, which can affect the health of the mother and fetus. One of the efforts made to overcome stress in pregnant women is relaxation therapy. Relaxation therapy aims to calm the nervous system and help pregnant women overcome anxiety and tension that often occurs during pregnancy. The activity method consists of preparation, implementation and evaluation. The results of the activity were obtained as many as 90% of participants reported an increase in knowledge about stress management during pregnancy, the results of the DASS-21 questionnaire showed a decrease in the average stress score of 30% and all participants were able to perform breathing relaxation therapy techniques correctly based on facilitator observations. This community service activity succeeded in improving the ability of pregnant women to manage stress through breathing relaxation therapy. The output produced can be used for the sustainability of the program at the Health Center.