Acupuncture treatments during pregnancy benefit both mother and child. Acupuncture is recommended 2-4 times per month at Red Phoenix Acupuncture to enhance the health of the mother, prevent complications, and influence the development of the baby.

First Trimester:

A recent Australian study published in the journal Birth reports that of 593 women less than 14 weeks pregnant who participated, those who received acupuncture reported having less frequent and shorter periods of nausea than the women who received no acupuncture. These improvements were felt immediately and lasted throughout the the four week duration of the study. During the first trimester, acupuncture also relieves fatigue, bleeding and migraines.

Second Trimester:

By maintaining balance into the second trimester, acupuncture can alleviate hemorrhoids, heartburn, and help ease stress. Other commonly treated conditions include edema, elevated blood pressure, and excessive weight gain. These latter conditions require concurrant monitoring by the expectant mother's obstetric physician.

Third Trimester:

As this is the stage where certain conditions such as sciatic, pubic, joint pain and backache can be more problematic, acupuncture can offer much needed relief.  During this time, we will also focus on acupuncture points aimed at properly positioning the baby by encouraging a head-down position. In the last four to six weeks of pregnancy, the mother will receive treatment to help with  labor and keep her as comfortable as possible.

Birth and Post-Natal Care:

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that the use of moxabustion, when applied to 130 pregnant women with breech presentations, increased the number of head-first births significantly. Used in China for centuries as a form of medicine, Chinese mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) is lit in stick-form and burned over a point on the fifth toe (not touching the skin). This gentle, smoldering heat treatment should be used at 32-36 weeks and only in healthy pregnancies.

Acupuncture During Labor:

Many expectant mothers turn to acupuncture for pain relief and to replenish energy during labor. However, acupuncture can also help stimulate uterine contractions without the use of drugs. This is acheived by using acupuncture points not typically used earlier in the pregnancy due to their ability to perform this action. Usually, the expectant mother would have a series of two to three successive days of one-hour treatments, so early referral is essential. A loved one who can provide transportation to and from the clinic is needed as well.

Acupuncture After Delivery:

Acupuncture is often used to slow heavy bleeding and aid in the recovery after delivery. In addition to restoring a mother's energy levels and alleviating depression and anxiety, acupuncture can be used postpartum to relieve backache and migraines. Additional acupuncture treatments may be needed after a Caesarean section to promote faster recuperation.