Acupuncture in Pregnancy

Safe, gentle and effective at every stage

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Acupuncture has successfully been used in pregnancy for so many different issues - in the first trimester common ailments can be fatigue, nausea or "morning sickness", anxiety, heartburn and potentially other issues which may not be directly related to pregnancy, but are usually managed with medications such as painkillers which the mother wants to avoid in pregnancy- for example headaches or back pain.

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The second trimester is usually less troublesome, but in the clinic I might see pregnancy patients starting to get physical discomfort due to the growing bump; hip or pelvic pain, constipation or haemorrhoids, itching, thrush or sleep disruption.

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In the third trimester, we're heading towards pre-birth preparation- and studies have shown that regular pre-birth treatment from 36 weeks can reduce labour time and interventions. 

 

Remember too the "fourth trimester", which is the equally important postpartum time of recovery.  Mother warming is a traditional treatment with moxa, which would ideally happen a few days or a week after birth, to support the mother's recovery and help prevent exhaustion and potential postpartum depression.  Acupuncture can also be beneficial if the mother's milk isn't coming through easily, and for issues such as mastitis. 

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Rest assured, an experienced and qualified acupuncturist will ensure that treatment is appropriate for whatever stage you and your baby are at, and treatments should be relaxing and supportive. 

 

Here is a link to Debra Betts' website, which offers a wealth of information regarding relevant research,  including a free download of acupressure points to support labour.  

 

Moxibustion is also often recommended in the late stages of pregnancy for turning breech babies. Ideally, the patient should come in as soon as possible after 34 weeks and continue the moxa treatment at home for 10 days (as will be demonstrated in the treatment).  Here is a download on safe Moxa use.

 

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Please don't hesitate to get in touch with any queries. Here's to a happy, healthy, and trouble-free pregnancy and labour.