Having a baby is not just a physical process, but also a hugely emotional and spiritual one. Dealing with all aspects of this process can be a very stressful experience for the expecting mother. As the belief in Traditional Chinese Medicine is that the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of the self are interwoven and inseparable, having acupuncture during this time can help to balance the emotions as well as ensure the physical processes are proceeding as smoothly and as healthily as possible.
The majority of pregnant women will experience at least one of the common ailments of pregnancy and unfortunately, these conditions are often difficult to alleviate conventionally. In addition, most women are reluctant to take Western pharmaceutical drugs unless it is absolutely essential. Fortunately, acupuncture is a safe and effective alternative for the relief and reduction of the most commonly experienced symptoms, such as: morning sickness; exhaustion (emotional and physical); insomnia; fluid retention; sinus congestion; headaches; back pain; fear & anxiety; breech, posterior & transverse presentation; induction; facilitation of labor; retained placenta; breast feeding difficulties & mastitis.
Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs may also be of assistance for some forms of infertility, threatened miscarriage, repeated miscarriage as well as dealing with the emotional and psychological aspects of termination of pregnancy, miscarriage and stillbirth. Ensuring that the woman regains her physical strength after these processes is also a vitally important aspect of the work.
Ngaio Richards holds a Masters degree in Health Science. She has nearly two decades of experience working in health and a strong background treating disorders of Gynecology, Obstetrics & Pediatrics through Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine.
(Ngaio can be found at Qi Natural Therapies & Yoga in The Corso, Manly on 9976 6880)