Acupuncture as it is practiced today is a safe, comfortable and cost effective way to treat many of the problems that commonly develop in pregnancy. This is especially true since pharmaceutical use is discouraged in pregnant women in most cases.
Acupuncture for Healthy Mom
Acupuncture treatment can help achieve optimal health for expectant mother and healthy development of fetus at different stages of growth and differentiation. Specific acupuncture points are used to minimize transmission of toxins from mother to fetus, and to increase fetus' ability to resist disease.
Acupuncture for Pregnancy Related Conditions
The severity of symptoms varies greatly in pregnant woman and often reflects the health and lifestyle choices before pregnancy. Acupuncture has been proven effective in treating the following conditions:
1. Psychological Issues: The most common symptoms are worry, anxiety and overall tension. All pregnant women are concerned about their pregnancy and the transition happening in her life. At the very least, acupuncture is deeply relaxing and helps to promote internal balance as well as an outwardly balanced perspective.
2. Morning Sickness: The first trimester is often accompanied by morning sickness marked by nausea and sometimes vomiting. This condition is responsive to acupuncture treatment. Excessive vomiting can be severe enough to require hospitalization. The usefulness of acupuncture treatment for this condition has been widely studied and found to be superior to pharmaceutical intervention. Other common digestive tract issues that arise in pregnancy that can be treated with acupuncture include: Heartburn, Constipation and Hemorrhoids
3. Back Pain and Sciatica: Back pain and sciatica from mechanical compression are common complaints in pregnancy especially in the later months. Up to ¾ of women experience some form of this discomfort. When severe enough, it can interfere with sleep. Acupuncture treatment can relieve discomfort when medication is not an option.
4. Swelling: Swelling is common in the second and third trimesters. Fluid accumulates most often in hands, feet and ankles. The condition is usually worse at the end of the day and in warm weather.
Acupuncture for Postpartum Disorders
New mothers should be encouraged to get acupuncture treatments after delivery. The restoration of her own health is imperative for her own well being and for her ability to be present for her newborn. Acupuncture will also help her prepare for the next pregnancy. Among the conditions that acupuncture can address after birth are:
1. Fatigue
2. Postpartum Vaginal Discharge
3. Postpartum Depression
4. Mastitis
5. Insufficient or Excessive Lactation
6. Post Caesarian Section Healing