What is acupuncture?

 

Acupuncture has been used in China and other Eastern cultures to restore, promote and maintain good health and energy levels for about 2,500 years.

Traditional Chinese philosophy states that our health is dependent on the bodys motivating energy - known as Qi - moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels below the skin.

For any number of reasons, Qi may become unbalanced, which leads to illness.  By inserting fine needles into the channels of Qi energy an acupuncturist can stimulate the bodys own healing response and help restore its natural equilibrium (and contrary to popular belief, you can hardly feel the needles!)

 

Is acupuncture safe?

 

Acupuncture is very safe to have during pregnancy and is an effective option at a time when many women choose to avoid taking medication for minor ailments.

 

How can acupuncture help during pregnancy?

 

Many conditions which routinely crop u during pregnancy benefit from a natural solution.

Acupuncture, when provided by a trained practitioner, can give relief for a range of pregnancy related conditions:

  • Morning sickness
  • High/low blood pressure
  • Anxiety
  • Tiredness
  • Constipation
  • Tender breasts
  • Migraine and other headaches
  • Back ache
  • Pelvic pain (SPD/PGP)
  • Varicose veins

 

Acupuncture can turn breech babies.

 

An adjunct to acupuncture, called moxibustion, has been used for many centuries to turn breech babies.  A herb called moxa is compacted into a cigar shaped stick, one end of which is lit and it's slowly smoldered directly above an acupuncture point on the little toe.

Research continues, but previous scientific studies have found promising results for the turning of breech babies; somewhere in the region of 80% success rate.

 

After the birth

 

Acupuncture is used by new mothers to increase energy levels, to promote self healing and to combat the "baby blues".

It is also very helpful in treating mastitis.

 

Acupuncture for pregnancy related conditions