Is acupuncture treatment is suitable for pregnant women?

30th, Mar 2023

For a woman, being pregnant is a special and exciting moment. It’s wonderful news, but it also comes with the duty of nurturing the woman and her unborn child. When it comes to the health of mother and child, there is a wide range of options, both medical and holistic, to choose from, thanks to the advent of medical science.

Acupuncture treatment in Mississauga is a type of alternative treatment that includes inserting very tiny needles into various acupoints all throughout the body. But the question remains, should acupuncture be used during pregnancy?

Let’s dive deep into this subject.

Gestation Period & Acupuncture Therapy

The gestation period is a critical time during which a woman’s body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing fetus. These changes can cause discomfort, pain, and emotional stress. Acupuncture therapy is believed to be an effective way to manage many of these pregnancy-related symptoms. However, before opting for acupuncture treatment, it is essential to understand its benefits, things to avoid, and the importance of choosing a licensed practitioner.

Benefits of Acupuncture Therapy during Pregnancy

Acupuncture treatment in Mississauga can be beneficial for pregnant women in various ways. Here are some benefits of acupuncture therapy during pregnancy –

·         Reduces Nausea & Vomiting

Morning sickness is a common pregnancy symptom that affects most women during the first trimester. Acupuncture therapy can help reduce nausea and vomiting, making the mother more comfortable during the early stages of pregnancy.

·         Relieves Back Pain and Sciatica

The weight of the growing fetus can cause strain on the mother’s back, leading to back pain and sciatica. Acupuncture therapy can help reduce this discomfort and improve mobility.

·         Manages Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition that affects some women during pregnancy, leading to high blood sugar levels. Acupuncture therapy can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve overall health.

·         Improves Sleep Quality

Pregnancy can cause sleep disturbances due to discomfort, anxiety, and hormonal changes. Acupuncture therapy can help improve sleep quality and reduce stress and anxiety levels.

·         Promotes Natural Labor and Delivery

Acupuncture therapy can help prepare the mother’s body for labor and delivery by promoting cervical ripening and uterine contractions. This can reduce the need for medical interventions during childbirth.

 

Things to Avoid During Acupuncture Therapy during Pregnancy

While acupuncture treatment can be beneficial during pregnancy, some precautions must be taken. Here are some things to avoid during acupuncture therapy during pregnancy –

·         Avoid Certain Acupuncture Points

Some acupuncture points, such as those located on the abdomen and lower back, should be avoided during pregnancy as they can stimulate contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage.

·         Choose a Licensed Practitioner

It is essential to choose a licensed practitioner who is trained and experienced in providing acupuncture therapy during pregnancy. This can ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

When to Avoid Acupuncture during Pregnancy

While acupuncture treatment can be safe during pregnancy, there are times when it should be avoided. Here are some instances when acupuncture therapy should not be performed during pregnancy –

·         Bleeding Disorders

Acupuncture therapy can cause bleeding in some cases. If a pregnant woman has a bleeding disorder, acupuncture therapy should be avoided.

·         Preterm Labor

If a woman is at risk of preterm labor or has a history of preterm delivery, acupuncture therapy should be avoided as it can stimulate contractions.

·         Placenta

If a woman has placenta previa, a condition where the placenta covers the cervix, acupuncture therapy should be avoided as it can cause bleeding.

Best Acupuncture Treatment

Acupuncture treatment in Mississauga can be a safe and effective way to manage many pregnancy-related symptoms. However, it is very essential to choose a licensed practitioner and avoid certain acupuncture points during pregnancy. If you are considering acupuncture therapy during pregnancy, visit Real Rehab, the best physiotherapy clinic in town.