Acupuncture for Induction of Childbirth and Pregnancy Nausea

The miracle of childbirth, and the pregnancy journey that precedes it, is something truly special to most expectant and new mothers. But for some, it can be a hard road, with morning sickness and even a lengthy labour taking its toll both on the body and the mind. However, with acupuncture treatment at Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic, it need not be. We provide tailored acupuncture treatment for vomiting, nausea, labour induction and everything else that might hinder your enjoyment and appreciation of the pregnancy journey. Here are some questions you might have about pregnancy acupuncture and how it might help you.

Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?

While it is safe to have acupuncture treatment while you’re pregnant, you should let your practitioner know about your pregnancy, as there are certain acupressure points they may need to avoid. In addition to providing acupuncture treatment for nausea and vomiting, both of which can be at their most intense during the first trimester, treatment can also be effective for pelvic and back pain caused by pregnancy.

What is the Difference Between Nausea and Vomiting?

To clarify the difference between the two, nausea is the unpleasant sensation of feeling like you’re about to vomit. It can be caused by anything from pregnancy and bad food through motion-related discomfort. Vomiting is the voluntary or involuntary physical act of throwing up the contents of your stomach that typically comes some point after the feeling of nausea.

How Does Acupuncture Treatment Relieve Nausea?

Nausea generally occurs when the Chemoreceptor Trigger Zone (CTZ) and vomiting centre, both located in the brain, have been activated. Traditional medicines can be ineffective in alleviating discomfort, which is why many people turn to acupuncture treatment. With nausea, the anti-emetic effects of acupuncture are activated due to the release of beta-endorphins that block the brain’s CTZ and vomiting centre. This method of treatment is not only useful for nausea caused by morning sickness, but also motion sickness and chemotherapy nausea.

Why is Acupuncture Treatment for Vomiting so Important?

In addition to the feelings of nausea experienced by pregnant women, vomiting can also be a common occurrence. Unfortunately, if the expectant mother is experiencing frequent and intense vomiting, particularly in the first trimester, it can lead to dehydration, weight loss and an imbalance of electrolytes, all of which can potentially harm the baby. By undergoing acupuncture treatment for vomiting while pregnant, the expecting mother can reduce the likelihood of vomiting, therefore reducing the likelihood of putting her child’s health at risk.

When Should I Begin Acupuncture Treatment for Nausea and/or Vomiting?

The common recommendation is that you come in for acupuncture treatment for nausea three times within your first ten days in order to get some momentum over the symptoms. Following that, one treatment a week should suffice to keep nausea and vomiting under control.

How Does Acupuncture for Labour Induction Work?

If the idea of a lengthy labour doesn’t appeal to you, then you can undertake acupuncture for induction of childbirth and potentially enjoy a much shorter labour period. This treatment is typically sought by expectant mothers who might be overdue and don’t want to be medically induced. Combined with effective massage techniques, acupuncture for labour induction can help bring about a feeling of relaxation which in turn can help induce labour in a natural way. But don’t leave it until the last minute, or when anxiety about a late arrival starts to play on your mind, as you’ll find it harder to relax – and relaxing is essential in this situation. Begin six weeks prior to your due date for the best chance at an effective result.

What Other Services Do You Offer at Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic?

As well as providing acupuncture treatment for nausea and for induction of labour, Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic also offers a wealth of additional services for those seeking natural therapy in Melbourne to help improve their health and wellness. We can provide acupuncture treatment for joint pain as well as migraines, muscle soreness and many other health concerns. Feel free to make an appointment at our Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic and discover the benefits of our treatments for yourself.