By Dr. Alexsia Priolo

Acupuncture is becoming an incredibly common and safe way to prepare for and bring about labour, as it may help to shorten labour time and decrease the need for medical intervention. It can be used in two ways: first to prepare the cervix and pelvis for labour, and second to support treatment of common symptoms like nausea and vomiting, backache, leg cramps, difficulty sleeping and swelling of the hands and feet.

While you can utilize acupuncture anytime for most pregnancy symptoms, when specifically preparing for labour it is recommended that women begin acupuncture treatment around the 37th-38th week of pregnancy and continue weekly until delivery.

When a woman comes in for her first 60 minute labour preparation visit, Dr. Alexsia spends the first 20 minutes reviewing and assessing how the pregnancy is progressing. The remaining 40 mins is dedicated to a relaxing acupuncture treatment complete with a Circle and Bloom meditation to get moms-to-be in a zen state of mind.

Dr. Alexsia aims to deliver the best care possible for the pregnant woman and her future bundle of joy. She is committed to working alongside midwives or OB/GYNs and providing safe and complementary therapies that will help ensure a healthy pregnancy. Moreover, she also utilizes other modalities that not only address common symptoms experienced in pregnancy, but also prepare the body for labour. This includes safe herbal treatments, clinically effective supplementation and simple lifestyle techniques.

If you are interested in labour preparation acupuncture or looking to add a Naturopathic Doctor to your pregnancy healthcare team, book an appointment with a naturopathic doctor onsite.

Reference:
The Essential Guide to Acupuncture in Pregnancy and Childbirth by Debra Betts