The purpose of this article is to present comprehensive information on the use of acupuncture for conditions that arise during pregnancy and postpartum.
Nausea
Acupuncture has long been a proven effective treatment for nausea. Nausea can make pregnancy feel difficult and draining, but tailored acupuncture treatments and diet and lifestyle advice tailored to the individual can successfully resolve nausea.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a much more serious form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy and will typically require hospitalisation for treatment and rehydration. Acupuncture can be a helpful treatment here alongside medical care to reduce and even resolve symptoms.
Threatened miscarriage/uterine bleeding
Uterine bleeding is common in the first trimester, and, once ectopic pregnancy, and any other complications are ruled out, acupuncture can help to stop uterine bleeding and help the pregnancy to continue.
Pregnancy loss
Approximately 20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage in Ireland. Acupuncture can provide emotional support during this difficult time.
Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety can present during and after pregnancy; acupuncture is helpful in the treatment of anxiety and depression.
Insomnia
Insomnia can come up during pregnancy due to mental restlessness and physical discomfort, and once again, acupuncture is particularly effective here too.
Back/Pelvic/Pubic Symphysis Pain
Pain in the lower back, the pelvis and in particular the pubic symphysis is very common during pregnancy and acupuncture seems to be the most effective treatment for these.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome that occurs in pregnancy occurs due to hormonal changes causing increased fluid retention; the resulting swelling can press on the median nerve resulting in pain. Acupuncture and moxibustion can help reduce the swelling and the pain.
Urinary incontinence
Urinary Incontinence is very common during and after pregnancy and it absolutely should not be ignored; it is very treatable and acupuncture has been found to be effective in resolving urinary incontinence. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can also be used alongside acupuncture treatment. For more information see: Evaluation of acupuncture treatments of postpartum female pelvic floor dysfunction by four-dimensional transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound – PMC – This study found that the group who received acupuncture in addition to pelvic floor physiotherapy were observed by ultrasound to have more improvement than the physiotherapy only group.
Vulvar Varicosities
Vulvar varicosities can occur in pregnancy and they are very uncomfortable. Acupuncture can resolve vulvar varicosities.
Gestational Diabetes
With gestational diabetes, a hormone made by the placenta prevents insulin being used effectively by the body. Gestational diabetes can be managed with monitoring and managing of blood sugar levels. Acupuncture’s role as a support treatment may come from regulation of hormones and from increasing the quality of sleep which has been seen to play a role in managing symptoms.
Pre-Eclampsia
Pre-eclampsia is a very serious condition that is potentially life threatening; it requires hospitalisation and continuous monitoring. Acupuncture may play a supportive role in the treatment of pre-eclampsia as it is effective for lowering blood pressure and increasing the production of Nitric Oxide which regulates vasodilation. For more information see: Integrating Acupuncture for Preeclampsia with Severe Features and HELLP Syndrome in a High-Risk Antepartum Care Setting – PMC.
Breech Presentation
Acupuncture and moxibustion are used to turn breech pregnancies with a high degree of success. An individualised acupuncture treatment with moxibustion(dried mugwort herb burned close to specific points on the body, bringing warmth to the area), followed by 10 days of moxibustion at home, all instructions and moxa provided. The British Journal of Midwifery recommends this treatment: https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/bjom.2021.29.12.692
Pre-Birth Acupuncture
In preparation for the optimal birth, pre-birth acupuncture treatments start at 36 weeks. The aim of pre-birth acupuncture is to ripen the cervix, optimal foetal positioning, assist beneficial pregnancy hormones, give a boost of energy and stamina for the upcoming labour, help keep the patient feeling calm and relaxed and to improve sleep quality. Pre-birth acupuncture will be beneficial for all planned types of birth, including medical induction or planned caesarean section. For guides for acupressure during labour see: https://acupuncture.rhizome.net.nz/download-booklet/
Post Birth Support
Acupuncture is useful in the postpartum period, for general support in recovery and for any other conditions which can occur during this time including urinary incontinence, postpartum depression and anxiety, and exhaustion.
Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Support
Acupuncture is helpful for issues with milk supply and for mastitis too.
C-Section Scar Healing
As the scar is healing, the use of moxibustion will decrease the time taken for the scar to be healed. Once the scar is closed, acupuncture treatment can help the scar heal further and decrease the size of the scar.
If you would like any more information on acupuncture in pregnancy or postpartum, please get in touch.
