Dresden Holden L.Ac. - pregnancy care + birth prep

Acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutrition guidance can be supportive modalities for all stages of pregnancy to promote balance and ease. 

Prenatal support: early-pregnancy, pregnancy related nausea, aches + pains, digestive discomfort, fatigue, anxiety, and stress.

Breech presentation: natural protocols with acupuncture and moxibustion are used to promote optimal positioning of the fetus. Moxibustion (all called moxa) is the herb mugwort that has been formed into a tube and lit to create warmth. The moxa stick is then held over the skin to create radiant warmth over particular acupuncture points and meridians. This heat, held over these points, has been shown to promote the release of prostaglandins that stimulate the movement of baby. 

It is not uncommon to be sent home with a moxa stick and instructions to perform this protocol at home daily in between acupuncture sessions. Some patients prefer to come in to the office for 30-minute moxa sessions a couple times a week to achieve optimal positioning for baby. 

Birth prep: Acupuncture has been shown to support birthing outcomes and postpartum health. The birth prep series is best if done weekly beginning at week 36. Bodywork and acupuncture support the body by preparing the body naturally for birth (this is very different from induction) through ripening the cervix and supporting natural hormone cascades. The natural cascade of oxytocin enable uterine contractions, enables bonding  between mother and baby, and  supports postpartum health. Other hormones promoted through acupuncture include endorphins and prolactin. 

Acupuncture is recommended weekly beginning at week 36 leading up to the due date to support the body, reduce birth interventions, birth pain and depressive symptoms in postpartum. 

We will also discuss acupressure points and techniques to do while in labor.