Male partners are often protective of their Pregnant spouses and frequently ask the question "Can you have Acupuncture when Pregnant?" Massage and acupuncture have been used for centuries in Eastern Medicine to help alleviate some of the major physical and emotional symptoms that can accompany pregnancy. Modern medical science has shown that acupuncture not only helps with the common complaints that women have when they are pregnant but also improve the potential for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
What is Pregnancy Acupuncture?
Acupuncture needles are inserted into specific acupoints on the body to help manage symptoms such as insomnia, lower back pain (sciatica), and anxiety. It can also help relieve fatigue, constipation, heartburn, and morning sickness, any symptom related to Pregnancy is worth trying to ease with a Natural approach such as Acupuncture.
Can you have Acupuncture when Pregnant?
Yes. Receiving Acupuncture during your Pregnancy can bring welcomed relief. Whether it be swollen ankles, worrying about the birthing process, insomnia or morning sickness, acupuncture can be a good adjunct to any primary care for Pregnant women.
Researchers at the University of Maryland’s Medical School have shown definite proof that acupuncture reduces or eliminated the pubic pain that more than 33 percent of women experience when pregnant.
There is research evidence that Acupuncture is effective for back pain.
Is Acupuncture safe during Pregnancy?
There is NO evidence to suggest that Acupuncture brings on miscarriage nor harms the baby.
When performed by a registered Acupuncturist, you know you’re in good hands – a registered acupuncturist has had longer training (4years) than anyone else who uses acupuncture needles such as dry needlers. Registered Acupuncturists know how to treat women during Pregnancy, safely using Acupuncture.
When using acupuncture on a Pregnant woman, the points we use are on the arms and legs and are safe for both mother and baby. The main focus is for the Mother’s relaxation and peace of mind.
Pregnancy Massage
Massage along with acupuncture has proven very effective in overcoming many of the physical complaints that accompany being pregnant- the aches & niggles as your body changes. Massage will help release & relax any tight muscles causing discomfort. Common examples include, a tight lower back muscles causing Sciatica or to reduce swelling in the ankles from fluid retention.
Massage during pregnancy is a little different from regular massage. Tell your massage therapist that you are pregnant. A qualified & trained massage therapist will know what you need. They will probably get you to lie on your side or face down if they have the right belly pillow for support.
Massage helps with relieving anxiety because it is soothing and relaxing. Relaxation is such an important part of pregnancy- it can really help you prepare for the birth of your baby and manage any stress between now and then.
The combination is bliss to a Pregnant Woman.
Massage and acupuncture are two tried and tested tools that help you manage the physical aches and pains you experience while pregnant as well as helping you deal with the emotional changes you may experience like stress or anxious feelings. Consider Acupuncture as part of your Pregnancy plan for improved health & wellness.
Katika Funnell is a Registered Acupuncturist (AHPRA) with 12 years experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). She has a Bachelor of Health Science in TCM from UTS and has studied and worked in a hospital in Hangzhou, China. Katika does help women trying to conceive with Fertility Acupuncture, helps during Pregnancy & beyond. Make contact with her today if you're keen to try Acupuncture & Massage during your pregnancy.
