Many people are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of acupuncture for the treatment of pain management. However, in truth, acupuncture and Chinese medicine as a whole have so much more to offer as a complete system of medicine. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes over 40 conditions for which acupuncture is effective at treating.
Here at Integrative Acupuncture in Montpelier and Williston, Vermont we are getting ready for the annual Good Beginnings Baby and Child Expo coming up on Saturday April 9th. So, let’s talk about the use of acupuncture for pregnancy beyond birth. Acupuncture can be extremely helpful throughout all stages of pregnancy, labor preparation, postpartum and beyond into childhood. Listed below are some of the common complaints that come up during these changing times and are treated effectively using acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. Often times these concerns are best treated using a combination of acupuncture, dietary therapy, herbal medicine, and tuina (Chinese massage), after a diagnosis is made. A differential diagnosis is one of the main benefits of Chinese Medicine; it is allows us to truly treat the individual in order to address not only the presenting symptoms, but also to get at the root cause of the imbalance that is causing these symptoms to manifest.
Fertility
Chinese medicine is able to effectively treat women and couples that are struggling with infertility or repeated miscarriages. We achieve this by first and foremost regulating the menstrual cycle and getting the woman’s body into a place of optimum health in order to be able to get pregnant and then carry a baby to full term. This is often achieved over a period of several menstrual cycles using a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbs that support fertility and ovulation. In some cases, the partner will also be treated.
- Irregular or painful menstrual cycle
- Repeated miscarriage
- IVF/ IUI treatment support
During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an amazing time of life, but can include a variety of new issues as your body changes. At IAOM in Montpelier and Williston, we work with your primary care provider or midwife to determine how acupuncture can provide natural solutions during your pregnancy in Vermont.
- Morning sickness
- Acid reflux
- Carpal tunnel
- Back pain, sciatica
- Insomnia
- Swelling
- Breech babies
- Labor preparation
Postpartum
This is a time where the focus shifts to the baby, but this is also a crucial time for the new mom to be cared for as well. Acupuncture, along with herbal medicine can be extremely effective at dealing with any lactation issues that come up while breastfeeding, as well as helping with prolapse and recovery from birth in general. Acupuncture has also been found to help keep postpartum depression at bay while the new mother is dealing with massive highs and lows of hormones that occur at this time.
- Insufficient lactation
- Mastitis
- Post-partum depression
- Prolapse (uterine, vaginal, hemorrhoids)
Infancy / Childhood
Believe it or not, children also benefit from acupuncture and Chinese medicine. We frequently treat children for a wide range of issues. Our providers at Integrative Acupuncture in Montpelier and Williston have experience treating children and our parents themselves. We strive to provide a comfortable experience for your child while tending to their health care needs, naturally.
- Colic
- Digestive issues (constipation/ diarrhea/ stomach pain)
- Respiratory issues (asthma, Allergies)
- Dermatology – (hives, rashes, eczema, psoriasis)
- “Growing pains”; leg cramps
To learn more about how acupuncture for pregnancy and beyond can benefit you, check out our website or give us a call to schedule an appointment. You can also come by and say hello at the Good Beginnings Baby & Child Expo on Saturday April 9th from 9-1p. I will be there with treatments to raffle away and to chat about acupuncture!
