Pregnancy and Postnatal Support

I offer pregnancy and postnatal support with acupuncture sessions and online, with stand alone nutrition consultations or health coaching packages.

Pregnancy and Postnatal acupuncture support

Is it safe to use acupuncture during pregnancy?

Acupuncture is safe to use through pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period. Research has found that acupuncture contribution in normalising pregnancy and birth include musculoskeletal preparation of the pelvis, cervical ripening, enhancing endogenous oxytocin release, and analgesic properties. A recent study into NHS maternal acupuncture service showed that women receiving pre-birth acupuncture had: fewer surgical births, required less analgesia in labour and a reduced the number of steps in the case of those needing induction of labour and had a reduced length of hospital stay.

What pregnancy conditions can acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can be used for the following conditions:

  • Nausea, vomiting and heartburn

  • Constipation

  • Varicose veins, haemorrhoids and vulval varicosities

  • Urinary tract infections

  • Fatigue & exhaustion, anemia

  • Musculoskeletal conditions (pelvic pain, RSI, low back pain)

  • Insomnia, anxiety & depression

  • Itching of the skin

  • Sinusitis

  • Oedema

  • Breech & posterior positions

  • Labour & delivery and postnatal treatment

Suggested timeline for pre-birth acupuncture and labour preparation

Weekly treatments from 35-36 weeks gestation, aiming to assist with ripening of the cervix; to promote optimal foetal positioning for labour, optimal maternal wellbeing and energy levels.

Acupuncture and moxibustion for breech presentation, starting ideally from 34 - 36 weeks gestation.

Postnatal recovery, weekly acupuncture from 2-3 weeks postpartum for around 3 weeks. Aiming at promoting optimal recovery and stamina, balancing emotions, aiding perineal healing and breastfeeding

Pregnancy and Postnatal nutrition support

What areas of pregnancy can nutrition help with?

  • Understanding which foods to avoid

  • Healthy eating, nutrient requirements, and supplements in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

  • Management of common pregnancy conditions: nausea, constipation, food aversions and cravings, heartburn, tiredness, hemorrhoids, keeping a healthy weight

  • Lifestyle management of sleep and exercise

  • Meal prep and practical ideas during the post-natal period