Pregnancy
We want your pregnancy to be as smooth and as pleasant as possible. The different trimesters each have their own challenges to face, especially for first time parents or those with prior difficult pregnancies. We offer drug free treatment for most commonly experienced ailments during pregnancy
Morning Sickness
In traditional Chinese medicine women use acupuncture for mild to severe nausea and vomiting. Rebalancing the body's energy calms the stomach and regulates the appetite.
Breech Presentation
Between 33 - 37 weeks, research has shown that acupuncture can be very effective in turning a breech baby. We recommend weekly treatments beginning at 34 weeks.
Premature Contractions
Called "restless fetus" in China, acupuncture and/or herbs can stop cramping and or bleeding, and strengthen the uterus's ability to maintain pregnancy.
VBAC
If you are seeking a vaginal delivery after cesarean, acupuncture can be very helpful in preparing you for a successful delivery.
Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH)
Acupuncture treatments can keep your blood pressure down and decrease the chance of further complications. It is recommended to come in as soon as there is concern.
Other Medicine
In addition, for those wanting to avoid taking drugs, acupuncture is a safe, effective way to treat common ailments such as colds, flu, sinus allergies, fatigue, migraines and backache, sciatica, carpal tunnel, edema.
Labor
Recent studies in Europe and New Zealand show that acupuncture can significantly reduce the duration of first stage labor. In an Australian study, the average first stage labor length was 196 minutes for women receiving acupuncture as compared to 321 minutes for those who did not receive acupuncture. It was also found that those receiving acupuncture had significantly less need for oxytocin during first stage labor (15%) compared to 85% for those not receiving acupuncture. Acupuncture is also effective for regulating and strengthening contractions in stalled labors, in instances of prolonged ruptured membranes and for reducing stress hormones known to inhibit labor progression.
We recommend that pregnant women receive weekly acupuncture beginning the 36th week to help with reducing labor duration, relaxation, and to facilitate a smoother birth process.
Labor Preparation
In cases where you are overdue or need to give birth earlier for medical reasons, acupuncture may help you to get your labor started.
Stalled Labor
Sometimes labor can slow down and there are situations where your "water" may break and contractions do not start. Acupuncture can help to regulate and strengthen contractions.
Anxiety & Stress
Stress hormones are known to slow the progression of labor. Acupuncture is a wonderful way to relieve stress and anxiety before and after birth.
Acupuncture can also help with prolapsed bladder or uterus, frequent urination, hair loss, hemorrhoids, back pain, menstrual irregularities, repeated miscarriage, & fertility.
Post-Partum
The post-partum period is a time of relative weakness and a critical time for rebuilding your strength. In China, the post-partum period is four months and women do not work during this time. In our culture, the need for rest and recuperation during this period is not as greatly emphasized. Please allow some time to nurture yourself while you are nurturing your baby.
Your post-natal journey is unique to you. Sometimes we face common challenges during this time. Acupuncture has been known to be supportive and transformational to the following:
Post-natal Depression
Lack of sleep, exhaustion and the responsibility of a newborn child may all contribute towards feelings that can range from 'the blues' to more profound feelings of depression. Acupuncture can help you feel calmer, more relaxed and more emotionally balanced.
Insomnia
New mothers are often sleep deprived because of the frequent feeding schedule and sometimes are unable to fall back to sleep. Acupuncture relaxes you, and also regulates your sleep cycle.
Constipation
This is commonly experienced after giving birth. Acupuncture can help to regulate bowel function to alleviate this condition.
Lactation Difficulties
If you have low flow or no milk production, research in China has shown acupuncture to have a 90% rate of effectiveness in increasing milk supply. According to Chinese medicine this can occur because of a blockage of energy or because of exhaustion and blood loss. Acupuncture can also help in cases of clogged ducts and mastitis.
Fatigue
Acupuncture is very effective in increasing your energy.
“The body is your temple. Keep it pure and clean for the soul to reside in.”
-BKS Lyengar