Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offers natural support throughout pregnancy and assistance in postpartum issues. Listed below are some examples of pregnancy related conditions commonly treated with acupuncture and Chinese medicine.
For more information about the upcoming Couples Acupressure for Childbirth Workshop on Saturday January 11 in Burlington VT please visit the blog
During Pregnancy
- nausea and vomiting (or “morning sickness”)
- prevention of miscarriage
- fatigue
- anxiety & irritability
- common cold/flu
- bronchitis & cough
- headaches
- constipation
- heartburn
- swelling (please consult your doctor immediately to rule out toxemia and pre-eclampsia)
- sciatica (Thai bodywork is also GREAT for this)
- back and other body pain (Thai bodywork can be very helpful here, too)
Preparing for Labor
- breech presentation
- prepare cervix and pelvis for labor
- labor induction
After Delivery
- post-partum depression, anxiety or stress
- post-partum bleeding
- pelvic and other discomfort or pain
- fatigue and exhaustion
- breastfeeding and colic problems
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine
Acupuncture can be used to help alleviate symptoms that may arise throughout pregnancy. Acupuncture is extremely useful at the end of pregnancy to prepare the uterus for labor and/or to induce labor when the due date has past. Women who have had acupuncture often have smoother deliveries and are less likely to have C-sections.
Chinese herbal medicine can offer natural relief to many common ailments during pregnancy when western drugs are best avoided.
For all conditions, recommendations are made regarding diet, exercise and lifestyle – so you can help yourself as much as possible.
How Often Should I Receive Acupuncture During Pregnancy?
Weekly treatment during the first trimester is encouraged to promote health for the developing embryo and the mother. Treatment at this time is especially important when there is nausea and vomiting. At a minimum for the first two trimesters, treatments at week 12 and at week 24 are recommended. During the third trimester, treatment can be done weekly, especially during the final 4-6 weeks, to prepare your body for a smooth delivery.
Recurrent Miscarriage
If there is a history of miscarriage, it is ideal for treatment to precede conception. The underlying imbalances need to be addressed to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Thai Bodywork
Thai bodywork is blissfully therapeutic and can be received throughout pregnancy. Sessions can be done in side-lying and seated position, which is most conducive in late pregnancy. Thai bodywork can be very helpful for sciatica and body pain, and can be helpful for emotional issues. Thai bodywork invigorates and balances the Qi, as well as works the muscles. The overall affect is blissful relaxation.
My first pregnancy was challenging as I had large uterine fibroids that caused considerable pain, pressure, and worry. Kelly’s acupuncture and moxa treatments reduced the discomfort, controlled the fibroids and left me feeling relaxed and grounded in my body. I was able to deepen my connection to the growing baby inside me and enjoy a wonderful time in my life.
Meredith
Burlington, Vermont