Acupuncture? Is it just a case of “stick them with the pointy end??”

Okay, so I couldn’t resist the Game of Thrones quote – I hope all the acupuncturists will be able to forgive me!!

But how much do you know about Acupuncture? Other than it involves needles??

Well acupuncture is an ancient therapy originating from China that has been used for around 2,500 years, and with growing awareness and recognition of it’s many benefits, mothers are turning to acupuncture before pregnancy to increase their chances of conception. They often find it helps during pregnancy as an alternative to taking medicines for minor discomforts and ailments such as

• Stress and anxiety
• Pelvic pain
• Morning sickness
• Blood pressure issues
• Migraines
• Back ache
• Constipation

And the magic doesn’t just stop at pregnancy ailments! About 3 – 4% of all babies present in a breech position at full term – often leading to Caesarean Section – and yet recent research suggests that acupuncture can be up to 80% successful at “turning” the baby – so for many women this is a great option to try – and the best thing is that it doesn’t even require needles as a “Moxa Stick” is held smouldering above an acupuncture point – so if you are needle phonic this might be a great option for you!

During our antenatal courses mums to be are always very interested to discuss “old wives tales” about ways to get their labours started – and whilst you may have heard tales about eating lots of pineapple, did you know that acupuncture might help ease you into labour in an overdue pregnancy?  Acupuncture is now becoming so main stream as an amazing holistic alternative that many Maternity units now offer acupuncture as one of their services to help avoid medicalised induction and to encourage a natural onset of labour, and its a darn site easier than consuming 7-8 whole pineapples !!!

Some acupuncturists can offer a labour service when they join ladies in labour to help boost energy levels, and their practitioner can offer pain relief as well as emotional support during birth. Finally acupuncture is believed to help in the early days after birth by promoting healing, avoiding baby blues and even helping treat mastitis!