One of the most exciting and happiest times in a woman’s life is pregnancy. However, great emotional and physical transformations that the body experiences can give rise to a gamut of symptoms such as nausea and back pain among many others. There is really little that Western medicine can offer in terms of relief of these pregnancy-related discomforts. This is because pregnant women are aware that Western drugs have several bad side effects that may have deleterious effects on their unborn child. With its thousands of years of treating conditions dealing with pregnancy and postpartum issues, Traditional Chinese Medicine in and acupuncture provides the mother with an effective and safe alternative option for treating discomfort and pain during pregnancy. Furthermore, they can be ideally used as a complementary therapy for obstetrical, doula and midwifery care.

Considered a holistic type of medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM strives not only to treat the symptoms of a condition but its root problem as well. This type of medical practice is one of the most widely used and oldest types of medical systems in the world.  TCM asserts that health is brought about by the unobstructed flow of Qi (or energy) and a proper balance of yin and yang in the body. A lot of factors can cause an imbalance in the body. They may include stress, extreme emotions, improper exercise, poor diet, environmental changes and even pregnancy. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles into acupuncture points. This helps relieve symptoms and brings back balance in the body.

A number of recent studies have demonstrated acupuncture’s potency in alleviating stress and pain due to its ability to stimulate the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters considered natural painkillers produced by the body.

Some of the conditions related to pregnancy that acupuncture can treat include:

-Overdue pregnancies
-Cervical ripening for proper delivery
-Breech presentations
-Premature labor
-Sciatica and back pain
-Anxiety and insomnia
-Potential miscarriage
-Vomiting and nausea

It is very important to seek treatment from a qualified and well-experienced acupuncturist who has dealt with issues related with pregnancy.

TCM and acupuncture provides the patient with a safe, non-invasive and gentle way to care for the unborn child and the mother during pregnancy. They not only help relieve so many of the symptoms and prevent complications and other illnesses, they can also boost your sense of well-being and overall health during this joyous and exciting time.