Here at Vitalize a large portion of our practice is focused on women's health and fertility. This includes pregnant women with their myriad of complaints and ailments. Let’s face it, as much as we may look like glowing goddesses, a pregnant body can be very uncomfortable. So here are some of the things acupuncture can treat in pregnancy, a time when other treatment options are limited.
Morning (ALL DAY) Sickness: can start as early as your missed period, and in some cases, last the whole pregnancy. Both herbs and acupuncture are effective at reducing symptoms to get you through the worst of it. We also work with you on specific dietary modifications to help ease nausea.
Fatigue: It is hard work making a tiny human, so we all can use a little help. Your blood volume alone can increase by up to 50%. Chinese medicine can help tune up what systems are lagging.
Headaches: maybe you had them with your menses in the past, well now your hormones are giving you even more headaches. Or maybe you decided to kick the caffeine that once sustained you. Whether it is tension headaches, sinuses or hormones, acupuncture can reduce the frequency and intensity.
Hip, Back, and Pelvic Pain: or any aches and pains really. This is really acupuncture’s specialty. Maintaining an exercise routine can help a lot too. But most women have to slow down and shifting joints, straining muscles, and ligaments can cause a lot of discomfort.
Swelling: sometimes swelling can indicate a larger issue, particularly if it coincides with elevated blood pressure. Acupuncture and herbs can help reduce swelling which then reduces the risk for more serious complications.
Insomnia, Carpal Tunnel, Labor preparation, Acid Reflux... Mamas, we’ve got you!
Amber Hincks, LAc is an acupuncturist and fellow with the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. She is also a trained birth doula and had a group acupuncture clinic for pregnant women.