Obstetrics: “The branch of medical science concerned with the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth and the period of about six weeks following the birth”.
–Oxford Medical Dictionary
Obstetric acupuncture offers women the opportunity to safely and effectively be treated during pregnancy, in some instances with greater efficacy than the current conventional western medical care available. Traditionally trained as a registered nurse and in Oriental medicine, Elizabeth Wilson, RN, L.Ac. has completed Obstetrics acupuncture certification with Debra Betts. She graduated from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina and Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, California. Elizabeth is in private practice in Wilmington, North Carolina, and enjoys treating pregnancy related issues and women’s health. In Elizabeth’s practice treatment is provided for:
- Miscarriage
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Hemorrhoids
- Urinary tract infections
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Anemia
- Insomnia
- Anxiety and depression
- Sinusitis
- Thrush and abnormal vaginal discharge
- EdemaItching during pregnancy
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension
- Small for date babies
- Breech and posterior positioned babies
- Induction
- Prebirth treatment to prepare the body for an efficient labor
- Acupressure for pain relief during labor
- Postpartum recovery
Prebirth treatment consists of a series of weekly treatments starting at week 36 of the pregnancy. Treatment is chosen based on the woman’s constitution and pregnancy history. These treatments aid cervical ripening, promote optimal position of the baby, and promote the best energy and stamina for women to enter into labor.
Prebirth acupuncture treatments have been researched and it has been concluded that there was an overall 35% reduction in the number of inductions (for women having their first child this was a 43% reduction). There was a 31% reduction in the epidural rate. The emergency caesarean deliveries were reduced by 32%. Normal vaginal births were increased by 9%. The prebirth treatments did not result in an increase in the onset of early labor.
For more research on acupuncture and pregnancy go to:
http://acupuncture.rhizome.net.nz/Pregnancy-Reasearch.aspx
Breech babies are best treated between 34-36 weeks gestation. This usually includes one treatment and education for the patient about how to use a moxa stick at home. Moxa or mugwort is an herb that has been packed into a cigar-like stick. The moxa stick is lit and held over specific acupuncture points to help stimulate the body. For more information on moxa therapy to treat breech presentations go to: http://acupuncture.rhizome.net.nz/Pregnancy-Reasearch.aspx
There are several physical and emotional issues that may arise during pregnancy. Acupuncture, acupressure, moxa and dietary recommendations are all helpful during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Traditional Chinese medicine can be used in the early stages of pregnancy to promote maternal and fetal well being. The use of acupuncture has allowed a greater number of women to have normal, more natural births leading to a more positive birth experience overall. During your acupuncture treatment(s) you will feel a deep sense of relaxation. Most women notice their sleep and energy are improved. The treatments last approximately 1 hour and include education on how to use acupressure to induce labor, if necessary and relieve pain during labor. Partners are welcome to come to the treatments too.