Acupuncture can be extremely beneficial throughout pregnancy. Incorporating regular acupuncture treatments during this time can relieve physical pain and stress on the body. Acupuncture can soothe emotional distress and promote relaxation. By maintaining the body’s natural balance, women who receive acupuncture during pregnancy experience relief from morning sickness, fatigue and edema, sinus issues and headaches without having to resort to medications that may harm the baby. During the final weeks of pregnancy, the use of acupuncture helps ready the body for delivery.
Breech Babies
In order to help re-orient breech babies, the practice of moxibustion, is widely used in acupuncture. This process of burning the moxa herb to the outside of the little toe can assist breech babies in re-orienting themselves headfirst, facilitating a safe delivery. The ideal time to receive moxa treatments to turn breech babies is between 33 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
Progressing Labor
The safe and natural use of acupuncture to encourage the onset of labor is a helpful alternative for women who want to avoid other methods of induction.
Postpartum and Lactation
After the delivery of the baby, the mother’s body needs to be restored to maximum health. At times, postpartum issues including depression, and problems with milk flow or lactation can arise. These and other postpartum challenges can be resolved with the use of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and nutritional counseling.