Being pregnant isn’t always a walk in the park.
Many mothers-to-be find themselves facing anxiety, fatigue, back pain, heartburn, and nausea as a result of the many new demands being placed on their bodies.
But suffering during pregnancy doesn’t have to be a given.
This article provides a brief overview of how acupuncture can support your mental and physical health during the different stages of pregnancy.
Acupuncture during your First & Second Trimesters
Regular treatment can set the foundation for a healthy pregnancy. Acupuncture can help to alleviate morning sickness, vomiting, fatigue, and headaches. Moreover, as you move into your second trimester, acupuncture treatment can offer relief from common complaints such as:
- Heartburn;
- Hemorrhoids;
- Difficulty sleeping;
- Hip and back pain;
- Weight gain; and
- Elevated blood pressure.
Acupuncture during your Third Trimester
This is an incredibly important time to treat your body with additional care. During this stage of pregnancy, acupuncture can help prepare your body for labor and delivery.
It does this by:
- Helping increase blood circulation to your cervix, uterus, and pelvis;
- Encouraging your baby to find an optimal position;
- Increasing your body’s production of hormones that are necessary for labour and delivery; and
- Helping to relax your nervous system.
Finally, If your due date has passed, acupuncture and acupressure can also be used to help induce contractions through a gentle non-invasive approach. Acupuncture and acupressure can also be used to help control pain, calm the mind, and reduce stress during delivery.
What are the pregnancy symptoms that you could live without? Have you considered giving acupuncture a shot?
Get in touch with a registered acupuncturist (R.Ac) to find out more about how we can help.