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What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional therapy where a trained practitioner inserts tiny, sterile metal needles into specific points on your body, known as acupoints. These points are believed to balance the body’s energy, or “qi,” to promote healing and well-being.It might sound unusual if you’re new to it, but research has found that acupuncture can help with many issues, like chronic pain and nausea. During pregnancy, it’s often used as a natural way to manage specific concerns without the use of medicines.
How Can Acupuncture in Pregnancy Help?
Acupuncture can help you through every stage of pregnancy, from conception to recovery after birth.Here’s how it can support you:
- Conception support: If you’re trying to get pregnant, acupuncture may help improve your chances. It can increase blood flow to your reproductive organs, balance hormones, and reduce stress. Studies have shown that people who used acupuncture conceived faster when combined with treatments like IVF or IUI.
- Morning sickness relief: Feeling nauseous in early pregnancy is common. Acupuncture can ease nausea by working on a pressure point on your wrist that affects digestion.
- Easing aches and pains: As your body grows and changes, back and pelvic pain can become uncomfortable. Studies confirm acupuncture is a safe way to ease these pains, especially during the later months of pregnancy.
- Managing depression and anxiety: Many women experience mood changes or anxiety during pregnancy. Acupuncture can gently help lift your mood and reduce stress.
- Correcting breech position: If your baby is breech, acupuncture, along with a technique called moxibustion, can help encourage the baby to move into the right position. This is usually done between 32 and 36 weeks.
- Preparing for labour: From around 36 weeks, pre-birth acupuncture can help your body get ready for labour. It may soften the cervix, relax your body, and encourage the baby to move into the birth canal. It can also reduce the need for medical induction and may shorten labour.
- Encouraging natural labour: If your due date has passed, acupuncture can gently help start labour by encouraging contractions and cervical changes. Sessions are often done every few days until labour begins.
- Postnatal recovery: After birth, acupuncture can support your healing, boost energy, and help with milk flow. It can also lift your mood.
Is Acupuncture in Pregnancy Safe?
Acupuncture is generally safe during pregnancy when done by a licensed practitioner using sterile needles. Serious complications are very rare, and mild side effects like slight pain or swelling usually go away quickly.Still, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Forbidden points: Some acupoints, like SP6, LI4, BL60, BL67, GB21, LU7, and points in the lower abdomen or sacral region, are traditionally avoided before 37 weeks because they might trigger contractions. However, studies haven’t found a strong link between these points and adverse outcomes like miscarriage or preterm labour.
- Minor risks: You might experience mild side effects such as redness, bleeding, or bruising at needle sites, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or irritability. Very rarely, infection or injury can occur if needles aren’t placed properly. This is why you should always choose a qualified practitioner.
- Consult your doctor: Always speak with your obstetrician before starting acupuncture. This is especially important if you have a high-risk pregnancy or concerns about preterm labour.
How to Choose a Qualified Acupuncturist
To stay safe and get the best results, always see a licensed acupuncturist who has experience treating pregnant individuals. Your doctor may also suggest trusted practitioners who specialise in pregnancy care.A qualified acupuncturist will take time to understand your health, customise each session to suit your needs, and avoid any points that could cause discomfort or risks during pregnancy.
Acupuncture in pregnancy can be a gentle and natural way to support you through this journey. Just make sure to talk to your doctor first and see a licensed acupuncturist for safe and effective care.
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FAQs on All You Must Know About Acupuncture In Pregnancy
- Is acupuncture safe in all trimesters?
Yes, it is generally considered safe during all trimesters of pregnancy when performed by a certified practitioner. - How many acupuncture sessions are needed during pregnancy?
Most people have 1 to 2 sessions per week, but your practitioner will tailor the plan for you.