Acupuncture During
Pregnancy
During the first twelve
weeks of pregnancy acupuncture can help to 'hold the
embryo'. This is recommended for women undergoing I.V F treatment and where
there is a history of unexplained miscarriage.
It is helpful in the management
of stress and anxiety. Acupuncture is also
beneficial in relieving nausea and other ailments that arise during the
course of the pregnancy.
In the case of breech
presentation or other malpositions, moxa treatment
which is a gentle form of heat application to the acupuncture point is a
safe method of correcting the position of the foetus.
Studies undertaken by
midwives in New Zealand where acupuncture is now
widely used in pregnancy have concluded that acupuncture is a comprehensive
means of reducing the risks associated with pre eclamptic toxaemia.
Since the introduction
of acupuncture during the last four weeks of
pregnancy in New Zealand midwifery records have demonstrated a marked
reduction in caesarean sections and forceps intervention. It has been found
that acupuncture is most beneficial in the preparation of the uterus and the
cervix for labour. If labour is overdue acupuncture is a safe and relatively
more comfortable means of inducing labour.
Vera has many years experience
as a nurse and midwife. She is also a member
of the Zita West Network which specialises in Reproductive Health. This
network facilitates the sharing of knowledge and expertise with other
members in Ireland and the United Kingdom. She regularly attends
appropriate courses related to pregnancy to get keep up to date with current
developments.
1a
Alma Place
Monkstown
Co Dublin
Tel:
01 284 6697
Fax: 01 284 6697
Mobile: 087 3237320
Email: monkstownacupuncture@eircom.net