Acupuncture and Pregnancy ii

Why should I get Acupuncture during Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an exciting and wonderful time. However, with the many physical and hormonal changes that occur, it can also be a time of discomfort. Many pregnant women suffer from fatigue, nausea, backache and other conditions that are considered a "normal" part of pregnancy. Acupuncture is a safe, gentle and effective way to address these complaints, especially since many Western medications can't be used during this time.
Regular acupuncture during pregnancy sets the foundation for a healthy mother and baby. In addition, women who receive acupuncture during pregnancy often have a shorter and easier birth experience than women who don't receive acupuncture. Several European studies concluded that women who received acupuncture once a week during the last month of pregnancy had significantly shorter labor than women who did not receive any acupuncture.
House calls are available for pregnant patients who are on full or partial bed rest. House calls are also available for postpartum treatments. Postpartum patients are welcome to bring their baby with them for office appointments.

Pregnancy and Postpartum Conditions Treated

Some of the conditions that acupuncture can treat are:

• nausea, vomiting, and hyperemesis gravidarum
• insomnia
• low energy
• anemia
• anxiety/depression
• constipation
• heartburn
• back pain and sciatica
• symphysis pubis pain
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• gestational diabetes
• high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia)
• PUPPs & other pregnancy-related skin conditions
• certain types of threatened miscarriage
• breech presentation
• posterior presentation
• pre-term labor
• delayed labor
• labor pain
• lactation problems
• postpartum depression

Is Acupuncture Safe during Pregnancy?

Yes. Prenatal acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to help patients support a healthy pregnancy and uncomplicated delivery. An Australian study conducted by Adelaide University in 2002 found that acupuncture during pregnancy had no adverse effects and was completely safe when done by a trained acupuncturist. You may have heard that some acupuncture points are forbidden during pregnancy. This is true - certain points are to be avoided during pregnancy as they may stimulate uterine contractions. However, a practitioner trained in prenatal acupuncture, as Cindi is, will know which points can safely be used and which should be avoided. Also, all pregnant patients are seen regularly throughout their pregnancy by an OB/Gyn or midwife, which allows Cindi to be well informed of any complications or health issues.

Are Chinese Herbs Safe during Pregnancy?

Many Chinese herbs are safe to use during pregnancy. In fact, some herbs are very beneficial, such as herbs used to prevent a threatened miscarriage or herbs used to calm uterine contractions during pre-term labor. Some herbs, however, are not safe during pregnancy. These herbs can initiate uterine contractions or may be toxic to the fetus. A practitioner trained in prenatal acupuncture will know which herbs are safe to use and which are to be avoided. The need for Chinese herbs during pregnancy is evaluated on an individual basis. Herbs are usually prescribed only when absolutely necessary.

General Treatment Plan for Pregnancy

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provide specific treatments for each of the three trimesters of pregnancy: setting the foundation, maintaining balance / offering relief from common complaints, and preparing the body for labor and delivery.

Breech Presentation

The traditional Chinese medicine treatment for breech presentation has been used for thousands of years. It is successful 75% of the time and carries no risk to the mother or baby.

Labor Induction

Acupuncture for labor induction is safe for both the mother and baby as long as there are no serious complications with the pregnancy.

Pain Management during Labor

If your doctor or midwife allows acupuncture during labor, Cindi is available for acupuncture treatments either at your home or at the hospital or birthing center.

Postpartum Treatment

In addition to returning the body to a state of balance and optimal reproductive health, many postpartum conditions are successfully treated with acupuncture.