Endocrine Info

http://www.atique-acupuncture.com/pregnancy.html

Pregnancy: Obstetric Acupuncture | Labor & Delivery | Postpartum Treatments | Common Conditions

Obstetric Acupuncture

Obstetric acupuncture offers safe, effective,

and gentle care addressing the various conditions that arise during pregnancy, labor
& delivery, as well as postpartum. Acupuncture has the advantage of providing
women with the choice of drug free treatment and can successfully treat and cure a
wide range of conditions.

Acupuncture treatments during pregnancy are 100% safe and benefits both Mother
and Baby. Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture) has understood since ancient
times that with pregnant patients, we are treating two people-the mother and her
unborn child. With this in mind, babies may be influenced by what is termed
maternal toxins, resulting in a childhood tendency for higher fevers when sick,
more frequent childhood illness and a tendency for skin problems such as eczema.
Acupuncture during pregnancy works to clear maternal toxins as well as nourish
and enhance fetal development. Additionally, acupuncture can calm morning
sickness, treat insomnia, edema, sciatica and many other discomforts of pregnancy.
It can strengthen the constitution of the mother-to-be which makes for a smoother
pregnancy and healthier baby.

Furthermore, acupuncture can help maintain your energy and well being during
your pregnancy. Routine treatments can reduce the chances of the necessity of
medical intervention during birth which can often proceed from procedures such as
turning a breech baby and a medically induced labor. Regular balancing treatments
throughout pregnancy enhance the health of the mother, help prevent complications
and influence the development of the baby. In fact, pregnant women respond so
well to acupuncture that the very gentlest of treatments is all that is required.
Expectant mothers find that their whole pregnancy experience is a much more
enjoyable one with the help of acupuncture.

1st and 2nd Trimesters

There is an ancient Chinese

acupuncture treatment that has been used for centuries to ensure a healthy,
beautiful baby. The treatment entails the stimulation of one, sole acupuncture point
called Zhubin in Chinese. When translated, it literally means Guest Building ,
referring to the fetus growing inside. Commonly, this point is also referred to as
happy baby or beautiful baby point. This point also serves to calm the mind and
build blood in the body. Studies have shown that the unborn child can be affected
by the mothers stress as early as week 17. Consequently, stress management
during pregnancy is a vital component and can be readily managed with
acupuncture. This point is traditionally needled in every trimester to ensure the full
benefit.

In the first trimester, acupuncture can relieve morning sickness, fatigue/exhaustion,

headaches/migraines and bleeding to name a few. Common conditions in the
second trimester such as heartburn, hemorrhoids, constipation, edema and stress
can be alleviated by acupuncture.

3rd Trimester

Third trimester treatments can bring much needed relief from sciatica, backaches,
pubic and joint pain and even carpal tunnel syndrome. The benefits and relief can
be immediate.
Also, this is the time when special attention is given to proper positioning of the
baby. By 32 to 34 weeks, the acupuncturist will begin to encourage a head-down
position. In the last four to six weeks, the mother will receive treatments to
normalize and optimize labor.

Pregnancy: Obstetric Acupuncture | Labor & Delivery | Postpartum Treatments | Common Conditions | Back
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Labor and Delivery

Pre-Birth Treatment Series

Pre-birth treatment involves a series of four treatments on a weekly basis, starting
from week 36, to prepare the body for labor. Points are customized to the mothers
constitution and pregnancy history. These include points to ripen the cervix, to help
position the baby in the best presentation for labor and to promote optimal energy
and stamina for women to enter into labor.

Breech Presentation
Breech babies are ideally treated between 34-36 weeks gestation. In this situation,
moxibustion is most effective. Moxa has been found to have properties that can
strengthen the body, relax the mind and stimulate Qi (energy). Often, the patient is
shown how to continue treatment at home with the moxa stick.

Labor and Delivery

Acupuncture is used during labor itself mainly to facilitate pain relief, boost energy
and promote an efficient labor. If needed, it can help stimulate contractions without
the use of drugs.

Natural Inductions
Acupuncture is also used as a natural means to induce labor when overdue. More
often than not, there is a strong emotional aspect linked to when women are
overdue. Whether it is fear due to a first time delivery or a negative experience
from a previous delivery, the mental/emotional state of the woman significantly
impacts the physical progression of labor. Through acupuncture and various
accessory techniques, the anxiety and apprehension can be relieved significantly
enough to produce a blanket of physical relaxation, thereby allowing the body to
naturally progress at its own rate in a more efficient manner.

Pregnancy: Obstetric Acupuncture | Labor & Delivery | Postpartum Treatments | Common Conditions | Back
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Postpartum Treatments

Typically after delivery, all the attention shifts to the newborn. Though this is
natural, it is important to remember that this is also a very important time for the
mother. Much care and attention is necessary for her as well in order to facilitate an
efficient recovery.

Postpartum is one of the most critical times for a woman to receive regular
preventative care from an acupuncturist. Acupuncture can often offset years of
suboptimal lifestyle and stress in the first few weeks postpartum, as well as
intercept abnormalities in lochial flow to rectify menstrual irregularities and prevent
them from occurring. It can also prevent serious postpartum depression from
occurring by addressing the normal recuperative cycle in the woman. In addition to
restoring a mother's energy levels after the stress of birth and alleviating
depression and anxiety, acupuncture can be used postpartum to relieve backache,
perineal and many other forms of pain.

Pregnancy: Obstetric Acupuncture | Labor & Delivery | Postpartum Treatments | Common Conditions | Back
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Commonly Treated Conditions During Pregnancy

Threatened Miscarriage

Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness)

Heartburn

Constipation

Varicose veins
 Hypersalivation

Acute and chronic urinary tract infections

Musculoskelatal conditions (low back pain, neck/shoulder pain, etc)

Fatigue exhaustion

Insomnia

Anxiety and depression

Thrush and abnormal vaginal discharge

Spotting during pregnancy

Itching in pregnancy

Sinusitis

Pregnancy induced hypertension

Edema

Breech and posterior position babies

Prebirth treatments for optimal delivery

Natural labor induction

Pain relief during labor

Insufficient lactation

Mastitis

Postpartum depression

Postpartum recovery

Afterpains

Miscarriage recovery

http://www.acupuncturebydawn.com/conditions-treated/pregnancy-and-childbirth
ACUPUNCTURE FOR PREGNANCY & BEYOND
Though, at first, you may not think to put acupuncture on your to do list when you find out you are
pregnant, it is actually a valuable and natural way to help ensure a healthy pregnancy, a smooth delivery
and a quick post-partum recovery.

Why acupuncture and Oriental medicine?

If we look back through Chinese history and the ancestral worship that is part of it, we see a very strong
cultural commitment to have healthy children. As a result, throughout the centuries, Oriental medicine
developed effective treatments to help couples get pregnant and to promote healthy pregnancies and
uncomplicated deliveries.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine focuses on re-establishing and maintaining a healthful natural balance
and flow of vital energy (or Qi chee) within the body. Qi is the basis for the proper functioning of all of our
organs and physiological processes, including reproduction: it provides structural integrity and stability,
physiological efficiency and the potential for life, health and healing in general.

Qi is thought to circulate in pathways throughout the body, known as meridians. In Oriental medicine, one
is said to be in perfect health when this Qi is balanced and flowing unimpeded, in the correct direction and
in an adequate amount throughout the body. When this energy becomes imbalanced, blocked or deficient,
we experience pain, discomfort and disease.
 Acupuncture needles, placed properly, directly access and regulate the flow
of the energy in the meridians and correct imbalances, thereby creating healing and harmony within the
body.

Acupuncture is a safe, effective and natural way for women to reduce their symptoms of pregnancy.
Moreover, it does this without the risks and side-effects of pharmaceutical medications, most of which are
contraindicated during pregnancy anyway.

Acupuncture for a healthy mother and baby

Acupuncture treatment once or twice a month during pregnancy is valuable for both Mom and Baby. It will
help ensure optimal health of the mother and the fetus at different stages of development, cell
differentiation and growth. It can also prevent and treat pregnancy-related symptoms.

One popular acu-point used during pregnancy is Zhubin (K9) known as the beautiful baby point, located
on the inner part of the lower leg. It is said to calm the mind, relieve anxiety, build blood and benefit the
fetus.

During the final 4 to 6 weeks of pregnancy, weekly treatments are recommended, to help prepare the
body for labor. Typically, a session lasts 30 to 45 minutes, and women usually only feel a mild pressure or
heaviness sensation at the site of the needle insertion.

Some women have pre-existing medical conditions that may worsen during pregnancy, but can be safely
addressed with acupuncture. This is a great option when pharmaceuticals are contraindicated or the
mother just wants treatment as natural as possible.

Acupuncture for pregnancy-related symptoms

Acupuncture significantly relieves fatigue, anxiety, migraine headaches, bleeding and, of course, the
morning sickness that can be common during the first trimester. An Australian study published in the
journal Birth reported that of nearly 600 women suffering with morning sickness, (all of whom were less
than 14 weeks pregnant), those who received acupuncture treatment reported having less frequent and
shorter periods of nausea than those who did not get acupuncture.

The second trimester can bring stress, sinus congestion, heartburn, constipation and hemorrhoids which
acupuncture can help to alleviate. Other second trimester symptoms that acupuncture can assist are
edema, elevated blood pressure, elevated blood glucose or excessive weight gain, but these conditions
are potentially dangerous, and should also be monitored by a western-trained physician or midwife.

Sciatica, back pain, pelvic pain, joint pain and carpal tunnel
syndrome can be common during the third trimester. Acupuncture treatment is known to bring relief to
these symptoms, and it can bring this relief quickly, without any medications. In fact, a recent study
published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that acupuncture in combination
with standard treatment was more effective at relieving mixed pelvic/back pain during pregnancy than
standard treatment alone.

If symptoms are particularly severe, weekly treatments may be necessary to get through a particular
period of time during the pregnancy.

Beginning around 32 to 34 weeks, special acu-points will be included during treatment to encourage the
proper head-down positioning of the baby for birth. Also at this time, acupuncture treatment frequency will
increase to weekly to help optimize childbirth.

Acupuncture to prepare for childbirth

For women who are ready for labor, acupuncture is a wonderful way to reduce the mother's stress, tonify
her vital energy, calm her anxiety, and increase the flow of energy through the body, to facilitate the
natural processes in her body, and increase her chances of going into labor naturally, as well as
encourage a healthy delivery.
Acupuncture for post-partum recovery

After delivery, acupuncture assists the normal recuperative process. It can help stop bleeding and
discharge, relieve backache and ease pain of the perineal area. It can also help to heal a Cesarean
section incision and hasten recovery from the surgery.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine helps to restore the mothers vital Qi energy and Blood,
support milk production, and normalize the Qi and Blood flow through the abdomen. It is also ideal for
preventing and assisting those suffering with post-partum depression. So, even though the new mom will
be busy tending to her newborn, it is important that she still get her acupuncture treatments.

As you can see, all women would benefit from receiving acupuncture throughout their pregnancies.
Acupuncture is valuable to ensure a healthy mother and fetus and to address pre-existing and pregnancy-
related symptoms during pregnancy. It is also a wonderful way to promote a natural and smooth labor and
delivery. In addition, acupuncture can assist in post-partum recovery.

(article written by Dawn Balusik, AP, published in Select Magazine, Mar-Apr 2009)

http://www.acup-chiro.com/englisharticle/AcupPregnant.htm

ACUPUNCTURE AND PREGNANCY

At Turning Point Acupuncture we are dedicated to helping a woman who desires children to become
pregnant and subsequently to supporting her through the pregnancy.

How can acupuncture be used in pregnancy?

It is useful to look at the historical context in which acupuncture for pregnancy developed to realize the
ways that it may be utilized.

Since Confucianism involves ancestral worship, the Chinese have been strongly committed to having
healthy children. A sturdy son was desired in particular, since it would be he who would tend the shrine of
his departed antecedents. Chinese Medicine developed to address the expectations of the faithful follower
of that tradition. Treatment evolved to help couples to conceive and then to foster a healthy pregnancy
and uncomplicated delivery.

Acupuncture as it is practiced today is a safe, comfortable and cost effective treatment for many of the
problems that commonly develop in pregnancy. This is especially true since pharmaceuticals are
contraindicated in pregnant women in most cases.

That being said, it is important that the acupuncture with a well trained practitioner because there are
some acupuncture point that are traditionally forbidden to do during the nine months of gestation. These
points are the ones that are known to strongly move Qi (energy) and blood through the pelvis include
obvious points like those on the lower abdomen, and also the famous points we use to treat gynecological
disorders: LI4 and SP6

In fact these two points when strongly stimulated have been used to induce abortion. I have read that they
were frequently used in Maoist China when the one child per family edict was strictly enforced.
Acupuncture, of course, when properly applied can help to prevent, not cause miscarriages.

Acupuncture for the healthy mom:

Acupuncture treatment is recommended once a month to ensure the optimal health of the mother and the
developing fetus at different stages of growth and differentiation. Tradition has it that Zhubin (K9), the
"beautiful baby point", should be needled at the end of the third and sixth months to ensure a happy,
healthy, and of course, gorgeous baby. The Chinese name for the point means "guest house". The Zhubin
point, located just below the calf muscle and above the inner ankle bone, is known to calm the mind,
relieve anxiety and helps to build blood.
It is claimed that "stimulating this point minimizes the transmission of toxins from the mother to the child,
increases the health of the baby and its resistance to disease and also tonifies the mother's Qi."

In preparation for labor and delivery during in the last month of the pregnancy the expectant mom should
be seen weekly.

Acupuncture for pre-existing medical issues:

While the focus of this page is to address the treatment of conditions that arise as a direct result of the
pregnancy, acupuncture can be used to treat conditions that antedate the pregnancy, such as migraine
headache or allergies. In most cases acupuncture is a safer approach than the use of prescription
medications.

Acupuncture for pregnancy related conditions:

The severity of symptoms in the pregnant woman often reflects the health and lifestyle choices of the
woman before getting pregnant: Did she have a healthy diet? Smoke or drink alcohol or use caffeine on a
regular basis? Have a lot of emotional stressors? If so, her Qi may be depleted, out of balance or blocked
and the added burden of the growing fetus may make her more symptomatic.

1. Psychological issues

The most common symptoms we treat at Turning Point Acupuncture are worry, anxiety and overall
tension. All pregnant women are concerned about their pregnancy and the transition happening in her life.
As a New Yorker she is probably also juggling an hectic schedule of appointments and responsibilities. At
very least acupuncture is deeply relaxing and helps to promote balance internally and an outwardly
balanced perspective.

Some women are clinically depressed in the course of their pregnancy. This can occur when there is
blocked energy in the liver organ system from anger, resentment, frustration or mechanical damage to the
liver from chemical or viral sources. By addressing the underlying disharmony we can help ameliorate the
symptoms in pregnancy and potentially avoid post-partum depression of the same origin.

Substance abuse can also be addressed using acupuncture. The treatment can help women who are
trying not to smoke cigarettes or who have trouble avoiding alcohol or psychoactive drugs including
sleeping medication. Even the severely dependent can benefit from the treatment as is evidenced by
pioneering work at Lincoln Hospital with crack addicted mothers. Women with addictions who are hoping
to have a healthy pregnancy should seek psychological support in individual counseling and 12 Step
programs.

2. Physical problems

Fatigue
Because of the intense demand placed on the mother's resources by the growing fetus, all pregnant
women experience fatigue. While nothing can substitute for sleep and a nourishing diet, acupuncture
ensures that the internal organs are fun
ctioning optimally, that the Qi is flowing freely without blockages and that there is a nice balance of the yin
and yang forces in the body. Acupuncture also helps with the increase production of blood and other fluids
in pregnancy.

Morning Sickness
The first trimester is often accompanied by morning sickness marked by nausea and sometimes vomiting.
The symptom is a reflection of an underlying Qi imbalance in the digestive function of the internal organs.
Often it can be attributed to the spleen organ system. The spleen is particularly sensitive to worry. This
condition is easily treated with acupuncture. Pericardium 6 is the most famous point used since it
harmonizes the digestion. The aim of the treatment is to subdue rebellious stomach Qi moving in the
wrong direction. Sea bands, easily found in health food stores to treat sea sickness and vertigo, work by
stimulating this point and can be used to treat morning sickness. Ginger, an ingredient commonly used in
Chinese herbal formulas to assist assimilation, can be used as a digestive aid.

Excessive vomiting is referred to as hyperemesis gravidum in the medical literature and can be severe
enough to require hospitalization. The usefulness of acupuncture treatment for this condition has been
widely studied and found to be superior to pharmaceutical intervention.
Other common digestive tract issues that arise in pregnancy that can be treated with acupuncture include:
Heartburn
Constipation
Hemorrhoids

Back Pain and sciatica

Back pain and sciatica from mechanical compression are common complaints in pregnancy especially
toward the later months. Up to of women experience some form of this discomfort The pain can
interfere with sleep. Here again is an instance in which acupuncture treatment can relieve the discomfort
when medication is not an option.

Edema
Our model Jamie Chapin Miller asked me to be sure and add this section since acupuncture helped her
with this condition in her pregnancy.

Swelling is common in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to the increase in circulating fluid
in the body. Fluid accumulates most often in the hands, feet and ankles, but the face and legs can also
get puffy. The condition is usually worse at the end of the day and in warm weather. Acupuncture is
appropriate to treat this kind of mild swelling. From a TCM perspective the fluid may be from stagnant Qi,
or deficiency in the spleen or kidney organ systems.

The presence of severe swelling, an increase of blood pressure and protein in the urine are possible
warning signs of preeclampsia, a potentially serious complication, and should be evaluated by an
obstetrician.

Here are two less common pregnancy associated conditions for which acupuncture is helpful:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Because of the extra fluid circulating in the pregnant woman, there can be compression of the median
nerve in the wrist resulting in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Other than wearing a wrist brace there is no other
Western medical treatment except surgery for this condition. Since it will resolve after delivery,
acupuncture is an ideal temporary treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome during the pregnancy.

Rhinitis of pregnancy
The significant nasal congestion that accompanies some women's pregnancy is a hormonal effect. In fact
some women on birth control pills also have this reaction. Since most decongestant medications are
contraindicated in pregnancy, this is another condition over which acupuncture is applicable.

3. Breech Presentation

A fascinating use of Chinese Medicine in pregnancy is its role in turning a fetus that is presenting breech,
i.e., feet first. The technique is most effective between the 28th and 34th week, up to 36 weeks of
pregnancy. The optimal time for effectiveness is 32-34 weeks. Past the 36th week there is usually not
enough room for the fetus to turn around.
The treatment uses the herb mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) called "moxa' in Chinese. Moxabustion is the
burning of the herb moxa and the application of the generated heat to certain acupoints. For turning the
fetus we primarily use the point Zhiyin (Bladder 67) located on the outside corner of the nail on the little
toe.

Although it is ideal to have a therapist or partner apply the stick, a woman can apply the Moxa stick
herself. The whole procedure (either with the Moxa stick or the needle) should be repeated twice a day for
a maximum of ten days, yet most babies turn within three days.

Once turned into the appropriate headfirst position, patients should stop using the technique, as it could
cause the baby to turn back to breech.

Zhiyin must not be used in patients who have high blood pressure, any kind of infection or higher-than-
normal body temperature or are expecting twins. Women should stop Zhiyin if it causes sleep difficulty or
uterine cramping or makes the baby overly active

A recent Japanese study confirmed that stimulation of acupuncture points is effective in correcting breech
positioning. By studying 357 women with breech presentation they found that the moxibustion treatment
group had a correction rate of 92.48 percent compared to the control group which had a spontaneous
correction rate of 73.66 percent

Other studies have not shown such spectacular results, but all show that the use of Zhiyin stimulation
produces a large, statistically significant improvement over the control group.

The mechanism of action of the treatment is unknown but here are some findings that suggest what is
happening:
Increased fetal activity
Relaxation of the uterine myometrium (muscle layer) making a more favorable environment for the fetus
to move
Increase blood flow in the uterine and umbilical arteries

The Zhiyin treatment is cheap, safe, effective, simple, painless and generally well tolerated. It can be self-
administered, but preferably done by a partner or acupuncture practitioner.

4. Induction for post due date

Having carefully avoided needling the "forbidden points" during the pregnancy, the acupuncture
practitioner can now freely apply all of theses points to move energy through the pelvis. This disruption of
the flow of Qi can result in uterine contraction.

5. Labor

Acupuncture use in labor and delivery is a common practice in China where the birth process is
considered natural and should be interfered with a little as possible. Acupuncture's use is to assist Nature.
It can be used to strengthen weak contractions and to diminish pain.

In England it has been observed that acupuncture assisted delivery is shorter, less painful, less stressful
for the mother and there is less chance of post partum hemorrhage.

Acupuncture for Post-partum disorders

Although she will be very busy, the new mother should be encouraged to get acupuncture treatment after
delivery. The restoration of her own health is imperative for her own well being and for her ability to be
present for her newborn. Among the conditions that acupuncture can address after birth are:
Fatigue
Postpartum vaginal discharge
Postpartum depression
Mastitis
Insufficient or Excessive Lactation
If there has been caesarian section, acupuncture can help with the post operative healing.
Care has to be taken using Chinese herbs after delivery if the mother plans to breast feed.
http://www.nycacupuncture.com/glpreg.html

http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/articles/prenatal-acupuncture/

Prenatal Acupuncture

Posted in: Filed Under: PREGNANCY

Prenatal Acupuncture: From Conception to Delivery

Pregnancy can be a time of some amazing firsts: your first positive test, your first sonogram, babys
first kick, andfor many womenyour first trip to an acupuncturist. Acupuncture has been used for
thousands of years to help women in their journey from conception through delivery. However, many
womens introduction to acupuncture comes as a result of needing to find a drug-free alternative for
treating morning sickness and nausea, fatigue, back pain, sciatica, edema, depression and other
pregnancy-related issues. While issues such as these are often considered a normal part of
pregnancy, the good news is that with acupuncture, they can be greatly lessened and in some
cases, completely relieved.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most commonly used medical procedures in the world,
originating in China more than 2,000 years ago. It consists of inserting fine needles into the body at
precise points to treat specific health issues. The goal of acupuncture is to restore and maintain
optimum health, improve physiological function and relieve pain. In Chinese medical theory, pain and
illness result when the smooth flow of your intrinsic energy or qi (pronounced chee) is hindered,
whether due to internal factors such as diet, exercise, rest or emotions, or external considerations
such as weather, trauma, microbes or toxins. It can even be due to the bodys response to the arrival
of a new energetic entity: your growing baby. When acupuncture needles are inserted into specific
points along precise energetic pathways, they help to restore the smooth flow of qi. By making
energetic suggestions, acupuncture stimulates the bodys intrinsic healing abilities, helping the
patient regain energetic balance and, ultimately, material health.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are made from extremely fine gauge, flexible, surgical-grade stainless steel
wire. They are not much thicker than a single hair, and their insertion is practically painless. In
general, when the needles are inserted you can expect to feel a light tingling sensation, a feeling of
heaviness or distension, warmth or coolness, or a sensation of local numbness at the acupuncture
site. These sensations are tied inextricably to the specific acupuncture point being treated as each
point has its own energetic flavor. Most acupuncture patients are surprised to discover that
treatments involve little or no pain, and are usually quite relaxing. Some patients even fall asleep
during treatment.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and World Health Organization
(WHO) as a safe, natural and drug-free way to address a wide range of health concerns. When
performed by a competently trained and licensed professional, acupuncture is extremely safe, even
during pregnancy. However, if you do seek acupuncture during your pregnancy, it is important to
work only with a fully trained and licensed acupuncturist, and to also let your acupuncturist know that
you are pregnant. Certain acupuncture points are contraindicated during pregnancy except under
specific circumstances. A fully trained and licensed acupuncturist will have thorough training in when
and how these points should be used, and will be able to provide you with safe, gentle and effective
treatment experiences from conception through delivery.

How can acupuncture help during pregnancy?

Many women have found acupuncture to play an important part throughout their entire pregnancy. In
the early stages of your pregnancy, it can help strengthen your constitution, while helping your body
cope with the many hormonal and physical changes that you will experience. It can help alleviate the
symptoms of morning sickness, ease fatigue, and help calm any anxiety you may be feeling. During
the 2nd and 3rd trimester, acupuncture can help you cope with increasing pregnancy-related issues
such as back ache, fatigue, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, etc. As your due date approaches,
acupuncture can help you and your baby prepare for labor and delivery. It can even be used to turn
a breech presentation. Acupuncture can also be used during labor to help dilate the cervix, increase
uterine contractions and manage pain. However, you would need to check with your hospital or
birthing center to see if your acupuncturist would be allowed to work with you in the delivery room.
The frequency of treatments can vary throughout the course of a pregnancy; your acupuncturist will
work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

Acupuncture can effectively treat the following pregnancy-related issues:

o Nausea and vomiting

o Heartburn

o Back pain
o Constipation

o Sciatica
o Carpal tunnel syndrome

o Fatigue
o Pelvic pain

o Stress and anxiety

o High blood pressure (pre-

eclampsia)
o Edema

o Breech presentation
o Hemorrhoids

o Pre-term labor
o Insomnia

o Delayed labor
o Depression

o Labor pain
o Anemia

In addition to addressing specific pregnancy-related issues, your acupuncturist may also recommend
the Beautiful Baby treatment, a classically-derived single point treatment given once at the end of
the 1st trimester and then again at the end of the 2nd trimester. This treatment is believed to help
deeply strengthen the qi of both mother and child, and is administered with a solid gold needle.

After your pregnancy, acupuncture can help your body return to a state of balance, and can also
address postpartum issues such as depression, insufficient lactation, mastitis, hormonal imbalances
and fatigue.
How do I find a qualified acupuncturist?

The best way to find licensed, trained and fully qualified acupuncturist is to check with your states
acupuncture licensing board. In North Carolina, this is the North Carolina Acupuncture Licensing
Board (www.NCALB.com). They can tell you which acupuncturists are licensed and in good
standing, and can usually give you contact information.

Editorial provided by Denise Slavich, LAc, DiplAc, ADS, a licensed and board-certified acupuncturist
in Charlotte, NC.

http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/articles/a-healthy-pregnancy/

A Healthy Pregnancy

Posted in: Filed Under: PREGNANCY

A Healthy Pregnancy: Advice on Nutrition, Fitness and Weight Gain

Congratulations! You are about to partake in one of the most beautiful experiences a woman can
havegiving birth to a baby. A common question is how to feed your body and baby. This is an
important topic to ensure delivery of a healthy little one. Here are the general nutritional guidelines
for most healthy, pregnant women.

Eat a well balanced diet full of variety and different colors. The more colors you ingest, the greater
array of nutrients you will consume. Pregnant women need adequate servings from all food groups.

o Whole Grains: 6 8 servings per day. A typical serving is 1 slice of bread, cup of a
cooked grain such as rice, 1 cup of dry cereal, and 3 cups of popcorn.

o Vegetables: 2 4 cups per day. Try different colors often such as orange, yellow, green,
white, purple, and red. A serving is 1 cup of raw vegetable, cup cooked vegetable, or 1
cup of juice.

o Fruits: 2 3 cups per day. The serving sizes are the same as for vegetables. When you feel
nauseous, try to consume fruit. Fruit increases your blood sugar, which may offset the feeling
of nausea (sometimes caused by low blood sugar).

o Low-Fat Dairy: at least 3 cups per day. Calcium is very important for the developing baby!
Try skim or 1% milk, yogurt, and 2% cheese. If you do not like cows milk, try a milk
alternative such as Almond Milk, Soy Milk, or Rice Milk. Their calcium levels are equivalent to
cows milk.
 o Lean Protein: 6 8 ounces per day. A 3 ounce serving of meat is about the size of the palm
of your hand, or, if it is fish, a deck of cards. Choose from lean sources such as chicken
breast, lean red meat, fish, and turkey breast. Increasing protein may help alleviate feelings
of nausea.

o Prenatal Vitamins are essential for your developing fetus. Research supports starting
supplementation prior to conception, even as early as 6 months prior.

Caloric needs do not increase until the second and third trimester. Typically, your needs will increase
by about 340 calories during your second trimester and 452 calories during your third trimester. On
average, pregnant women consume 2,200 to 2,900 calories per day by the end of the pregnancy.

Minimize your intake of simple sugars, especially if you have diabetes or elevated blood glucose
levels. Chronically high blood sugar can result in macrosomia, where the baby weighs greater than
10 pounds at birth. Elevated sugars can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in your
newborn. In order to minimize your risk of elevated blood sugar, avoid soda, juice, candy, cookies,
and refined flour products.

Physical activity can reduce your risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Women who
exercise regularly during pregnancy feel healthier and have an enhanced sense of well-being, and
their labor appears somewhat shorter than non-exercisers. You should aim to exercise 3-5 days per
week, for 30 minutes at moderate intensity.

Weight gain is normal, and weight reduction during pregnancy is contraindicated. When possible, a
healthy weight should be achieved prior to conception. The following are guidelines for appropriate
weight gain, according to pre-pregnancy weight.

o Women who are underweight with a BMI less than 18.9 should gain approximately 28 40
pounds.

o Women who are normal weight with a BMI of 18.5 24.9 should gain approximately 25 35
pounds.

o Women who are overweight with a BMI of 25 29 should gain approximately 15 25

pounds.

o Women who are obese with a BMI over 30 should gain approximately 15 pounds.

o Women expecting twins should gain approximately 35 45 pounds.

 o Greatest weight gains are seen in the second and third trimester, averaging between 1 2
lbs per week.

o During delivery you can lose approximately 15 lbs.

Remember these are general diet and lifestyle recommendations. If you have pre-existing conditions
or specific dietary restrictions requiring a special diet, it is always best to consult with a Registered
Dietitian.

Editorial provided by Christina Melanson, MS, RD, LD of The Wellpath Center in Kennesaw,
Georgia.

http://www.wayofwellness.com/may-2009/

May 2009
In This Issue

Acupuncture in Pregnancy & Childbirth

UB 67 for Turning Breech Babies

The Four Gates Treatment for Moving Qi

Signs and Symptoms of Liver Qi Stagnation

Acupuncture in Pregnancy & Childbirth

Pregnancy is an amazing time in a womans life. Many women report feeling healthier than they
have ever felt before; however, the physical growth of the baby and changes in hormone levels
can bring about pain, discomfort and a variety of health problems.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can provide a safe, effective alternative for many of the health
complications that may arise before, during and after pregnancy. A growing number of women are
choosing acupuncture to use throughout their pregnancy and as an optional treatment for an overdue or
difficult labor.

Planning for a Healthy Baby

Healthy parents produce healthy babies. With acupuncture and Oriental medicine, parents can improve
their health to create the most optimal environment for their unborn child. In addition to their ability to
strengthen, support, and balance overall health and well-being, acupuncture and Oriental medicine are an
effective treatment for regulating menstruation and hormone levels, reducing stress and addressing any
pre-existing medical conditions or concerns that a woman may have.

Acupuncture during Pregnancy

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can play a vital role in the comfort of a pregnant woman. There is
strong evidence to support that acupuncture is highly effective at treating some of the most common
problems experienced during pregnancy including morning sickness, heartburn, insomnia, water retention
and sciatica.

Here is a list of some of the problems that an acupuncturist often treats during pregnancy:

* Nausea and Vomiting

* Heartburn

* Constipation

* Hemorrhoids

* Edema and Swelling

* Urinary Tract Infection

* Pelvic Pain

* Neck and Back Pain

* Sciatica

* Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

* Leg Cramps

* Fatigue and Exhaustion

* Insomnia

* Anxiety and Depression

Acupuncture for Childbirth

While there are acupuncture points that can provide natural pain relief during labor, acupuncture is more
commonly used to induce labor. There are several points that stimulate contractions and influence
cervical ripening. There is also an acupuncture point that has been found to turn a breech baby.

Acupuncture Postpartum

Many women feel depleted after the birth experience. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help the
transition of those first few months after birth to ensure a quick recovery. Postpartum care focuses on the
physical, emotional and psychological recovery of the mother from the effects of pregnancy and labor, as
well as encouraging breast feeding.

Here are some of the postpartum disorders that can be treated with acupuncture:

* Fatigue

* Postpartum Depression

* Mastitis

* Insufficient or Excessive Lactation

* Post Operative Healing

* Night Sweats

If you would like to know more how acupuncture and Oriental medicine ease discomfort and
facilitate pregnancy, please call for more information.

UB 67 for Turning Breech Babies

An acupuncture point on the small toe of the foot (Urinary Bladder 67) has been found to
effectively revolve fetuses in breech presentation.

In an Italian study, 240 women at 33-35 weeks of gestation carrying a fetus in breech presentation were
randomized to receive acupuncture plus moxibustion (an herb used to apply heat to an acupuncture
point) or to be assigned to the observation group. At delivery, the proportion of babies that had turned
from breech position to vertex (head-down) position was 53.6 % in the group treated with acupuncture
while the proportion of babies that had turned from breech position to vertex position in the observation
group was 36.7%.

Source: J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2004 Apr;15(4):247-52

Safety of Acupuncture While Pregnant

Acupuncture is safe to use while you are pregnant; however, there are some points that can cause
contractions and should NOT be needled during pregnancy or should be used with extreme
caution.

Acupuncture Points to Avoid During Pregnancy

* Large Intestine 4
* Spleen 6
* Gallbladder 21
* Points on the sacrum
* Point on the lower abdomen
* Point on the low back

There are also many herbal remedies that are contraindicated during pregnancy. Always err on the side of
caution with all herbs and medications while you are expecting.

Common Acupuncture Points used During Pregnancy

Zhubin (K 9) beautiful baby point

Location: Above the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), right below the calf muscle.
Function: Calms the mind, builds or tonifies blood.
Indication: Good for hypertension, fear, anxiety, nightmares, and mental disorders.

Zusanli (St 36)

Location: Four fingers below the knee cap, on the outer edge of the tibia.
Function: Strengthens overall constitution, builds blood and Qi, resolves edema, and harmonizes
meridians that control digestive functions.
Indication: Great point for diarrhea, constipation, gastric pain and indigestion. Also helps with insomnia,
edema (water retention), and increases energy level.

Neiguan (P6) morning sickness and motion sickness point

Location: Two fingers above the inner wrist.
Function: Calms the mind, harmonizes the stomach.
Indication: This is THE point for nausea and vomiting. It is also one of the most relaxing acupuncture
points and is used for both insomnia and anxiety.

http://ballardacupuncture.blogspot.in/2015/03/point-of-month-happy-pretty-baby-
point.html

Point of the Month: Happy Pretty Baby Point

Did you know there is a pressure point we acupuncturists like to call the Happy Pretty Baby Point?

Also known as Kidney 9 or Zhubin, this point is traditionally stimulated during each trimester of
pregnancy with gold needles. This technique is reported to release heat and toxins from Mom's body
so they don't transfer to the baby. It is located 5 inches above the bottom of the inner ankle bone and
right under the inner calf.

I can personally attest to the efficacy of this point, as I had it stimulated during my pregnancy and my
daughter came out very happy and very pretty ;)

http://queenanneacupuncture.com/?p=691

Acupuncture Point Zhubin Kidney 9

October 4, 2011 in Acupuncture Points, Topics in Pregnancy and Postpartum, Uncategorized | No comments

When I was in my last semester of acupuncture school, I was pregnant with my first daughter. Once
that fact became obvious to my teachers and classmates, my two Chinese instructors insisted that I
needed to needle Kidney 9 regularly. It is thought that this point will produce a beautiful baby when
needled throughout the pregnancy. I thought it was humorous at the time, but I have since come to
rely on this point with all of my pregnant patients, as it is one of the most useful for securing a
pregnancy and preventing miscarriage. I joke with my patients that we are needling the beautiful
baby point, but in truth, I am using it to be sure that the uterine environment is as healthy as
possible for the growing embryo and fetus.

From the book Acupuncture in Midwifery (which I highly recommend to acupuncturists focusing on
Obstetrics) by Yelland:

Kidney 9 is said to produce a child with particularly luminous complexion who would sleep at night,
laugh in the daytime, be virtually immune to diseases or if he/she did catch a disease would heal
quickly, be sane in mind, morals and body.

Interesting note: Peter Deadmans A Manual of Acupuncture, which is the main text used in American
acupuncture schools, does not include miscarriage prevention or beautiful baby as indications for
this point. The name of the point, however, translates to Guest House. To me, this sounds as though it
is for the uterus while it is housing a guest, aka, a baby.

https://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/The+Beautiful+Baby+P
oint+-+Acupuncture+for+a+Healthy+Baby

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The Beautiful Baby Point - Acupuncture for a Healthy Baby

By: Diane Joswick, L.Ac., MSOM
The Beautiful Baby Point - Acupuncture for a Healthy Baby

There is an ancient Chinese acupuncture treatment that has been used for centuries to ensure a healthy, beautiful baby. The
treatment entails the stimulation of one, sole acupuncture point with a very thin, golden needle. If it works or not, I couldnt
say, but you will find that many acupuncturists have a few solid gold needles safely set aside in there clinics especially for this
purpose.

In the first or second trimester, an acupuncture point, 'Zhubin', is gently stimulated with a golden needle. Gold is warm by
nature and works well to strengthen the body and stimulate Qi. The beautiful baby point is located above the medial malleolus
(inner ankle bone), right below the calf muscle. Even though the acupuncture point is located on the lower leg, it is a powerful
point that is connected to meridians throughout the body and is used for many reasons.

The name 'Zhubin', means 'Guest Building'. Could this 'guest' refer to the fetus growing inside the womens body? The
acupuncture point is traditionally used to calm the mind and to build blood in the body. It can be used to treat hypertension,
fear, anxiety, nightmares, and mental disorders.

Acupuncture treatments can be helpful throughout a pregnancy. Acupuncture can calm morning sickness, treat insomnia,
edema, sciatica and many of the other discomforts of pregnancy. It can also strengthen the constitution of the mother-to-be
which makes for a smoother pregnancy and healthier baby.

Moxibustion is often used during pregnancy. The moxa herb is used to gently warm certain points and has been found to have
properties that can strengthen the body, relax the mind and stimulate Qi. This form of Oriental Medicine can be used to
supplement an acupuncture treatment or instead of needles for those that are needle sensitive. The only down side of
moxibustion is its strong smell, which some pregnant women cannot cope with.

Acupuncture is safe to use while you are pregnant. There are some points that should not be needled during pregnancy or
should be used with extreme caution. Points on the sacrum, lower abdomen and points that could elicit a contraction should be
avoided.

There are many Chinese herbs that are contraindicated during pregnancy. Err on the side of caution with all herbs and
medications while you are expecting.

Common Acupuncture Points used During Pregnancy:

Zhubin (K 9) 'beautiful baby point'

Location: Above the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), right below the calf muscle.
Function: Calms the mind, builds or tonifies blood.
Indication: Good for hypertension, fear, anxiety, nightmares, and mental disorders.

Zusanli (St 36)

Location: Four fingers below the knee cap, on the outer edge of the tibia.
Function: Strengthens overall constitution, builds blood and Qi, resolves edema, and harmonizes meridians that control
digestive functions.
Indication: Great point for diarrhea, constipation, gastric pain and indigestion. Also helps with insomnia, edema (water
retention), and increases energy level.

Neiguan (P6) 'morning sickness and motion sickness point'

Location: Two fingers above the inner wrist.
Function: Calms the mind, harmonizes the stomach.
Indication: This is THE point for nausea and vomiting. It is also one of the most relaxing acupuncture points and is used for
both insomnia and anxiety.

Acupuncture Points to Avoid During Pregnancy

 Points on the sacrum - can cause contractions
Point on the lower abdomen there is a risk of needling too deep
Point on the low back avoid deep needling.
Sanyinjiao (Sp6) located three fingers above the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone). Can cause
contractions.
Hegu (LI4) located on top of hand in the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger. Can cause
contractions.
Find a qualified acupuncturist in your area to assist you through your pregnancy onwww.Acufinder.com

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