Acupuncture is a safe, gentle and effective way to address many common problems at this time. Pregnancy is a time when many women look for natural remedies and non-invasive, drug-free treatments . Treatment throughout pregnancy can also promote relaxation and general Well-being.
Conditions that can be treated safely and effectively during Pregnancy.
- Morning Sickness
- Anxiety and Stress
- Insomnia
- High Blood Pressure
- Oedema of ankles and hands
- Haemorrhoids
- Constipation
- Carpal tunnel Syndrome
- Restless leg Syndrome
- Back Pain and Sciatica
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is one of the most common complaints in the first twelve weeks of pregnancy. Even though it is called “Morning Sickness” it can occur at any time of the day and it can last a lot longer than twelve weeks. In TCM, it is often seen as an imbalance between the liver meridian on one side and the stomach/spleen meridian on the other, or alternatively, from the accumulation of too much heat in the stomach. Generally Morning sickness symptoms show marked improvement after a few Acupuncture Treatments. For women who have suffered severe morning sickness on Previous Pregnancies advice would be to start Acupuncture treatment before it presents on future Pregnancies.
Turning Breech babies
Approximately 15% of babies are in the ‘feet down’ breech presentation position between weeks 29-32 of pregnancy. Most eventually settle into a ‘head down’ position but a small percentage remain in the breech position until labour. Skilful midwives can turn a baby by doing an external cephalic version (ECV) but if unsuccessful then the baby often has to be delivered by caesarean section. Women are keen to avoid such intervention and pleased to hear that a simple non invasive treatment can help turn their baby.
Breech babies Presentation are ideally treated between week 34- 36 weeks gestation but can be attempted later. This is a one off needle free , gentle treatment with women being shown how to continue treatment at home with a moxa stick (slow burning therapeutic herb called mug worth). The treatment is repeated at home for a number of days by the women’s partner. The moxa stick is lit and held over specific points on the body to help promote the foetus moving into a more suitable position for a natural birth. It is a safe treatment with a high success rate.
Pre-Birth Acupuncture
Pre-Birth treatment involves a series of weekly treatment’s from 36 or 37 weeks to prepare for labour. Points are used according a woman’s constitution and pregnancy history. These include points to ripen the cervix, to help position the baby in the best presentation for labour and to promote optimal energy and stamina for women to enter into labour. Research shows Since the introduction of Pre-birth acupuncture in New Zealand midwifery records have demonstrated a marked reduction in the need for medical inductions and caesarean sections
Induction
We can help induce your labour naturally with acupuncture. We prefer to let nature take its course, but if you are advised to have a medical induction, we can start treating you before Medical Induction
Post Natal
The post Natal period refers to the weeks following childbirth. It can often be referred to as the 4th Semester and can be a challenging time for women. Women may experience a range of symptoms such as prolonged bleeding, Perineal discomfort, difficulty in urination and defecating, breast discomfort and pain, emotional disturbances, insomnia, anxiety and Postnatal depression.
Acupuncture can help restore the women’s Vital energy and naturally treat these conditions.