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Acupuncture is an ideal form of treatment during pregnancy, as it offers gentle, drug-free relief for a wide range of problems often associated with pregnancy. It can also be used to prepare for labour, induce labour, and to turn breech babies.

 

At Conceive, we can offer support with acupuncture, at every step of the pregnancy, from conception through to birth.

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Breech presentation

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Moxa can be used very effectively to turn breech or posterior-facing babies, avoiding other more invasive methods. The optimum time for turning a breech baby is 34 weeks, but it can be successful as late as 38 weeks. A posterior-facing baby can even be turned during labour with the use of acupuncture. See research on breech presentation.

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Pre-birth acupuncture

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Pre-birth acupuncture, given once a week, 3 or 4 times prior to the due date, is very effective to prepare the body for labour. It promotes cervical maturation and dilation, helps relax the ligaments, ensures the smooth flow of energy in the pelvic region (stagnation may hinder labour), boosts general energy levels and calms the mind. By doing so, it increases the likelihood of an efficient labour, reduces labour time and helps to minimize the need for medical intervention. See research on pre-birth acupuncture.

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Acupuncture to induce labour

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Acupuncture can be used to induce labour where the woman is overdue, avoiding the use of medical induction which can lead to a difficult labour. It is effective in promoting dilation of the cervix, stimulating contractions, helping the baby’s head to engage, and it can even be used during labour, to shorten labour time, reduce the need of medical intervention and alleviate pain.

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Here is a list of complaints during pregnancy that acupuncture can treat:

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• Morning sickness

• Backache

• Sciatica

• Symphysis pubis pain

• Rib pain

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Insomnia

• Constipation

• Heartburn

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Tiredness

• Hypertension

• Oedema

• Breech presentation

• Preparation for labour

• Labour induction