Pregnancy

Acupuncture, Shiatsu and Massage for Pregnancy: A Safe, Gentle, Drug-Free Solution

Acupuncture, Shiatsu and massgae are highly effective and safe treatment options during pregnancy, providing a natural, drug-free way to address a wide variety of conditions. These gentle therapies supports the health and well-being of both mother and baby throughout this transformative time.

Conditions Treated with Acupuncture in Pregnancy

Acupuncture can help manage and alleviate many pregnancy-related conditions, including:

Nausea and Morning Sickness: Reduces symptoms naturally.

Digestive Problems, Constipation and Heartburn: Supports a smoother digestive process.

Anxiety, Depression and Insomnia: Promotes emotional balance and relaxation

Muscular Skeletal Pain, such as back, neck or rib pain and leg cramps: Alleviates strain and improves mobility.

Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD): Reduces pelvic pain and discomfort.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Addresses pain and inflammation.

High Blood Pressure: Promotes better circulation and reduces stress.

Oedema (Swelling): Eases fluid retention and discomfort.

Headaches, Migraines and Sinusitis: Provides relief from tension or hormonal headaches.

Itching: Eases skin irritation and itchiness.

Preparing for Labour with Acupuncture

From 36 weeks, acupuncture is highly recommended to relax your body and mind while preparing you for an efficient and natural labour. This treatment works by promoting the release of beneficial pregnancy hormones, encouraging cervical readiness, and supporting optimal foetal positioning.

Many women at this stage may experience tension in the neck and shoulders. To address this, I can include a short massage as part of your session. Additionally, I can teach you and your birth partner acupressure points to use at home and during labour. Acupressure offers many benefits, including:

  • Pain Relief: Helps reduce discomfort during contractions.
  • Shorter Labour: Supports a more efficient birthing process.
  • Calming Effect: Helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Learning these acupressure techniques also allows your partner to play an active and supportive role in the birthing process, creating a calm and connected environment.

Preparing for a Medical Induction

When awaiting a medical induction, acupuncture offers a natural and supportive way to prepare your body for labour. This gentle treatment helps to:

  • Encourage the release of natural labour hormones
  • Support the softening and ripening of the cervix
  • Promote optimal foetal positioning for a smoother delivery
  • Calm the mind and reduce pre-labour anxiety

Recent research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture in improving outcomes for women undergoing labour induction. A study found that acupuncture significantly enhanced cervical readiness and reduced the need for medical intervention (ScienceDirect, 2024).

Acupuncture sessions at this stage can help you feel more in control and better prepared for the induction process. By addressing physical and emotional tensions, acupuncture provides a holistic approach to easing the transition into active labour.

Additional Therapies

I can combine acupuncture with Massage or Shiatsu, and Acupressure or offer these as stand-alone treatments to relieve muscular aches and pains, promote relaxation and further enhance your wellbeing.

Discover how acupuncture,massage and Shiatsu can support you through every stage of pregnancy. Contact me to book your session or learn more about the treatments available!

Acupuncture for the Post-Natal Period: Rest, Recover, Rejuvenate

What is the Golden Month?

In many Eastern cultures, the first month after birth is called the “golden month.” During this time, new mothers focus entirely on caring for their baby while being cared for by family and friends. According to Chinese Medicine, proper care during this crucial period can help prevent chronic health issues later in life.

Why Choose Post-Natal Acupuncture?

Acupuncture during the post-natal period offers a natural, effective way to support your recovery. One highly recommended treatment is Mother Warming, a therapy using moxa typically performed 4-6 days after childbirth. This gentle treatment is designed to:

  • Boost energy levels
  • Aid recovery from childbirth
  • Rejuvenate the body

By nurturing yourself with acupuncture, you can restore balance and feel revitalised during this transformative time.

Key Benefits of Post-Natal Acupuncture

Post-natal acupuncture addresses a wide range of common conditions, including:

  • Mastitis: Alleviate inflammation and discomfort.
  • Back Pain: Relieve strain caused by pregnancy or caring for a newborn.
  • Urinary Stress Incontinence: Support pelvic floor recovery naturally.
  • Depression and Anxiety: Promote emotional well-being and reduce stress.

Prioritise Your Recovery

Your post-natal health is just as important as your baby’s well-being. By prioritising self-care, you can better enjoy the journey of motherhood and feel your best.

Book Your Post-Natal Acupuncture Session Today

Ready to nurture your recovery and rejuvenate your energy? Contact me to schedule a session or learn more about the benefits of post-natal acupuncture. Let’s work together to support your health and well-being during this precious time.