What is acupuncture?

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Acupuncture is a treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine.

It is a traditional method to encourage the body to restore and maintain good health where fine needles are inserted in specific places on the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. The needles may be inserted just under your skin or deeper into the muscle tissue and may be left in place from a few minutes or up to 45 minutes.

Acupuncture is considered very safe during pregnancy.

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  How can acupuncture help?

There is strong evidence to suggest that acupuncture is beneficial for

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• Back and pelvic pain

• Sciatica 

• Nausea and vomiting (hyperemesis)

• Heartburn and indigestion

• Anxiety and depression

• Headaches and migraine

• Preparation for labour

• Encouraging the baby into an optimal position (head down) for birth

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Labour as a form of pain relief

• Post dates to encourage labour commencement

• Postnatal well being/ lactation

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How is Acupuncture treatment carried out

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Acupuncture is thought to work by the stimulation of channels of Qi energy with fine needles. Natural endorphines are released allowing the body to self heal and reinstate homeostasis (natural balance). 

Loose clothing is advised and a vest top for ease of access to the relevant acupunture points. 

 

Advice following an acupuncture treatment

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Some people experience mild, short-lived side effects such as:

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• Pain where the needles puncture the skin

• Bleeding or bruising where the needles puncture the skin

• Drowsiness

• Feeling sick

• Feeling dizzy or faint

• Worsening of pre-existing symptoms.

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I will also give you advice on how to prolong the beneficial effects by use of accupressure at home

 

 

Acupuncture should only be used in pregnancy under guidance of a practitioner who is qualified in the use of acupuncture in maternity care.