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What are the uses of Acupuncture in Pregnancy

Acupuncture can be used to assist with a range of pregnancy related conditions, offering women an alternative to taking medication. Acupuncture may also be used for the discomfort often regarded as part of a 'normal' pregnancy that just has to be endured.

Acupuncture can be used to assist with a range of pregnancy related conditions, offering women an alternative to taking medication. Acupuncture may also be used for the discomfort often regarded as part of a ‘normal’ pregnancy that just has to be endured. While acupuncture is viewed by many as an ‘alternative’ medicine, it’s use in pregnancy is widespread in certain countries such as Denmark, France, Germany, Switzerland and New Zealand, where midwives undertake specialized acupuncture training.

The following list details the conditions that acupuncture has been used for;

  • 1st trimester- Miscarriage/ Threatened miscarriage/ Early pregnancy supportive care/ Nausea and vomiting
  • 2nd trimester- Constipation and hemorrhoids/ Varicose veins and vulval varicosities/ Headaches and migraines/ Musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, pelvic and hip pain/ Fatigue and exhaustion/ Anxiety and depression/ Itching in pregnancy
  • 3rd trimester- Hypertension disorders including Pregnancy-induced hypertension/ Gestational diabeties/ Breech and posterior positioned babies/ Prebirth acupuncture to prepare the Healthy Body for an efficient labour/ Preparation for a medical Induction (treatment 3 days prior)/ Acupressure for support people to use as pain relief during labour
  • Postpartum recovery- Energy, breastfeeding/milk production, after pains