During Pregnancy
In Chinese Medicine, it is believed that a pregnancy draws on the deep reservoirs of energy in the body. From a Chinese medicine perspective, both pregnancy and breastfeeding use up alot of the body’s qi (energy) and blood. So, it’s very important to have enough rest, eat nutritious foods and support your body’s production of qi and blood. Chinese medicine aims to reinforce this reservoir in order to support a healthy pregnancy and address common pregnancy symptoms such as:
We commonly see patients for:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Headaches and migraines
- Insomnia
- Sinusitis
- Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
- Back pain
- Rib pain
- Pelvic pain
- Constipation
- Breech or malposition
- Birth Preparation
- Birth encouragement
Plus post-natal care. Learn more about that here
In the first 12 weeks
as the body undergoes huge physiological changes, Chinese medicine understands that the body is drawing a lot on its reservoirs and resources- it’s qi (energy) and blood. The strain on these resources, as well as hormonal and other changes, can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting and headaches. Chinese Medicine and acupuncture aims to help support the physiology of early pregnanc, rebalancethe body’s energy, increase vitality and reduce stress and anxiety.
From 12-34 weeks
At this time, acupuncture and Chinese medicine aims to continue to support and balance the qi and blood of the body. An appointment once a month provides an opportunity to re-balance, however more frequent sessions may be advisable if you have any unwanted pregnancy symptoms, such as back pain, sleeping or digestive problems, pelvic instability or blood sugar issues.
From 34-40 weeks
At this time, acupuncture and Chinese medicine aim to increase the physical energy of the body in preparation for birth. It also encourage cervical ripening and optimal positioning of the baby. If you discover your baby is in a breech position, we recommend commencing acupuncture treatment from 34 weeks. Regardless of position, it may be helpful to undergo pre-birth acupuncture, starting at 35 weeks. Some research suggests that women who undergo birth preparation acupuncture have shorter labour times and a decreased rate of intervention, including inductions and caesareans (Debra Betts). In these appointments, we can also teach you and your partner acupressure points that can be used in birth preparation, and labour.
40-42 weeks
If you have passed the 40 week mark, or if you have an induction booked prior to this date, birth encouragement treatment aims to support labour physiology by strongly increasing blood flow and nerve activity to the uterus. In these appointments, we can teach you and your partner acupressure points to help birth preparation and reduce pain during labour.