Pregnancy Acupuncture
With a professionally trained acupuncturist you are offered a safe and natural alternative to a number of problems that can arise during pregnancy and childbirth. At Ora Acupuncture you will be looked after by qualified and registered acupuncturist.
Pregnancy is an exciting time, however there are many physiological changes that occur, acupuncture can help with transitioning through these changes and address many of the challenges that may arise with each trimester. Treatments can also include, ear seeds, moxa, cupping, massage and dietary and supplement advice.
Morning sickness:
Acupuncture is highly effective in relieving moderate to severe nausea and vomiting. Diet and lifestyle advice is also an important component in helping manage morning sickness.
Heartburn:
Due to the relaxing effect of hormones created in pregnancy and the ever expanding uterus, heartburn can range from mild discomfort through to pain and vomiting. Chinese medical theory believe this rising of acid is due to rebellios Qi. Acupucnture is effective in relieving the symptoms of heartburn.
Constipation:
There can be a variety of reasons that can lead to consitpation in pregnancy. Morning sickness can alter diet preferences, a want to limit fluid intake due to increased urination, and increased progesterone and estrogen that softens smooth muscles to name a few. Acupuncture can help to regulate the digestive tract and encourage regular stool movement.
Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH): Acupuncture can help manage your blood pressure and decrease the chance of further complications.
Stalled labour:
Sometimes labour can slow down or stop. Other times you 'waters' may break and contractions still do not start. Acupuncture can help get labour going again, regulating and strengthening contractions.
Breech and Posterior Presentation:
Between 34-37 weeks, research has shown to be very effective in turning a breech or posterior baby. Treatments are recommended beginning week 34.
Safe during pregnancy:
For women who want to avoid taking pharmaceutical drugs acupuncture acts as a safe and reliable way to treat many common conditions in pregnancy. Such as common colds, sinus headaches, allergies, fatigue, migraines, back pain and anxiety or stress.
Labour preparation:
Acupuncture is effective in regulating and strengthening contractions in stalled labours, in instances of prolonged ruptured membranes and for reducing stress hormones known to inhibit labour.
It is recommended that pregnant women receive weekly Acupuncture treatments beginning no later than 36 weeks to help shorten labour, increase relaxation and facilitate a smoother birth.
Labour Induction:
In instances when you are overdue, or a medical induction is imminent acupuncture can be highly effective in getting labour started.
Anxiety and Stress:
Stress hormones are known to slow the progression of labour. Acupuncture is a wonderful way to raise oxytocin levels, relieve stress and anxiety before and during labour.
Insomnia:
Often new parents are sleep deprived due to the frequent feeding and cannot always fall back to sleep. Acupuncture relaxes you and helps regulate your sleep cycle.
Post-partum:
This is a critical time for rebuilding and strengthening. In China women do not work for four months after childbirth. In our culture, the need for rest and recuperation post-natally is not greatly emphasized, but no less necessary. Please allow time to nuture yourself while you are nuturing your baby.
Post-natal Depression:
Lack of sleep, exhaustion and the responsibility of a new born can all contribute to feelings that range from ‘the blues’ to more profound depression. Acupuncture can elevate mood, make you calmer and more relaxed, to help keep you emotionally balanced.