Babies are like little suns that, in a magical way, bring warmth, happiness and light into our lives.
— Kartini Diapari-Oengider
I have a special place in my heart for babies. Having dealt with fertility issues myself, I understand the joys and fears surrounding pregnancy better than most. Finding out you’re pregnant is exhilarating and terrifying – in the best possible way. You’ll question everything you’ve ever believed in and doubt yourself more than you thought possible. However, the journey to parenthood is beautiful and will teach you more about who you are as a person and as a couple than you’d dreamed. It will also make you appreciate your own parents and what they did for you in untold ways.
These are all emotional challenges. But what about the physical challenges that come with pregnancy? Growing a human being isn’t easy. You may face nausea, headaches, hip and back pain…and that’s only for starters! Don’t panic. There are things you can do to relieve the symptoms of pregnancy.
By starting acupuncture early…in your first trimester…you can help form a basis for a healthy and happy pregnancy. In the first trimester, acupuncture may help relieve morning sickness and the nausea that comes with it – along with the accompanying headaches and fatigue. As you move into your second trimester, acupuncture may help alleviate issues with sleeplessness, unwanted weight gain, heartburn and even those swollen ankles! By your third trimester, acupuncture sessions can help pave the way for a smoother delivery and may also assist you with the relief of hip, joint and back pain as well as sciatica.
Acupuncture can also help with more complex issues such as breech babies. By using moxibustion (applying heat by burning the herb mugwort to a point on the little toes) your baby may gently turn on their own. And if you are past your due date…acupuncture can be used to help prime your body to go into labour. This safe and natural method is gentler than Western medical labour inductions.
Finally, don’t forget about after birth care. Acupuncture may help you regain your strength and balance your energy levels more quickly. It may also help you beat those baby blues which affect 80% of new mums.
Pregnancy is beautiful. Your body is beautiful. Treat yourself right and care for yourself throughout each trimester and you will reap the benefits.
Babies are love. Love your pregnancy and it will love you!