Acupuncture and Pregnancy
What is acupuncture? For 3000 years Traditional Chinese Medicine has promoted specialized treatment for women enhancing fertility, pregnancy care and postpartum recovery. Qi is the natural energy of the body. Acupuncturists manipulate qi by inserting fine needles into specific acupuncture points on the body creating balance. What does it feel like? Acupuncture needles are solid and very, very fine. The feeling experienced can be similar to slight tingling, heaviness in the limbs or a feeling of relaxation. What other techniques are used? Moxa, a warm smoldering herb can be used to warm acupuncture points. Electro acupuncture, cupping and acupressure massage are also used when acupuncture is not appropriate. What will happen on my first visit? You will be asked about your current symptoms, any treatment you have received, your medical history, your diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional state. Tongue and pulse diagnosis are also used to identify patterns of disharmony. Wear loose fitting clothing for treatment as clothing is usually adjusted rather than removed. Clients should avoid eating one hour before treatment. They should not consume caffeine, alcohol or non –prescribed drugs prior to treatment. Is it safe? Needle sterilization practiced by NZRA members complies with NZ Department of Health standards. I use sterile, disposable single use needles. What can acupuncture treat? Nausea during pregnancy can be greatly relieved with Acupuncture treatments tailor made for the individual. Usually there is a constitional reason why 'morning sickness' afflicts some but not others and quite often lasts the whole day!!. Muscular- Skeletal pain back pain, rib pain sciatica and pubic symphysis pain are all common in later stages of pregnancy. Acupuncture can alleviate the pain without unnecessary drugs. Breech Babies Moxibustion at 34 weeks has significant effect in turning breech babies. It can still be useful when used later in the pregnancy. It can also be useful for babies in a posterior (or mal) position. Labour Preparation/Induction 3 weeks pror to the due date acupuncture can prepare the pelvis and cervix for the task ahead. It can also gently induce labour if overdue, eliminating the need for a syntocinon drip or prostaglandin gel induction. Pain relief during Labour Acupressure can be a drug free alternative for pain relief during labour. Birthing partners can be taught how to stimulate acupuncture points with massage. Acupuncture can also treat Anaemia Anxiety Constipation Carpal Tunnel syndrome Heartburn Haemorrhoids and vulval varices Insomnia Oedema Headaches and sinus problems Threatened miscarriage Tiredness and exhaustion Thrush Postnatal care Acupuncture can promote recovery giving support a can incredibly special time. Other conditions that can arise include insufficient lactation, wound healing and scar tissue repair, postnataldepression and urinary incontinence. ACUPUNCTURE OFFERING A SAFE EFFECTIVE DRUG FREE ALTERNATIVE DURING PREGNANCY |
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