Whether you are actively trying to conceive, utilizing assisted reproductive technology (such as IVF or IUI) or planning to conceive in the future, there is a lot that acupuncture and Chinese medicine can do to support you. According to the CDC, “In the United States, among heterosexual women aged 15 to 49 years with no prior births, about 1 in 5 (19%) are unable to get pregnant after one year of trying (infertility).” While this is a staggering statistic, anyone diagnosed with “infertility” may simply just be out of balance in the eyes of Chinese medicine theory. And when we work on correcting that imbalance, it is not uncommon for women to conceive, sometimes much faster than they were anticipating!

Planning ahead: It takes about 90 days for an egg to develop and 72- 90 days for sperm to mature. Therefore, it is best for both partners to start acupuncture treatments 4-5 months before trying to conceive. If you miss that preconception window, acupuncture can still be highly beneficial for achieving your goal of pregnancy. 

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What to expect: On initial visit, we will go through a thorough health history to establish where you are and what your needs are. Not just for you, but for your future offspring. You will leave your initial visit with a treatment plan outlining recommendations on number and frequency of acupuncture visits, herbs if applicable, dietary recommendations and lifestyle recommendations. 

Pregnancy Support

Women often ask if receiving acupuncture is safe while pregnant. The answer is yes! However, let your acupuncturist know if you are pregnant or might be pregnant, as there are some contraindicated points we will not use during specific times throughout the pregnancy. Ideally, we would love to see you throughout the entirety of your pregnancy. We will work preventively to lower any potential risks and set you up for a healthy pregnancy and birthing experience. A healthy mom makes a healthy baby. However, regardless of what stage you are in your pregnancy, you will leave your initial visit with a treatment plan outlining recommendations for frequency of treatments, and lifestyle and dietary tips. 

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Labor prep: Once the due date starts approaching, we recommend the use of acupressure to help prepare the body for a healthy and efficient labor. When the time comes, we will teach you and your partner or support person research driven acupuncture points to massage within the weeks leading up to labor and before labor. Acupuncture and acupressure during this stage have been shown to be incredibly helpful to ripen the cervix, decrease pain during labor and promote relaxation.

Postpartum: Pregnancy support does not stop after giving birth. Postpartum, also known as the fourth trimester, is a crucial time to rest and nourish the body. Certain conditions acupuncture and Chinese herbs can be helpful with during this time include:

• Lactation production

• Mastitis 

• Anxiety, mood swings, and depression

• Insomnia

• Recovery from C-Section or tearing

• Hormonal balance and regulation

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While many pregnancy symptoms can be very common and of no concern, they also can be highly uncomfortable. Some symptoms that acupuncture and Chinese medicine can effectively treat include:

• Morning sickness

• Acid reflux

• Constipation

• Mood swings

• Changes in sleep

• Stress and anxiety

• High blood pressure

• Gestational diabetes

• Breech positioning

• Back, hip, and pelvic pain

• Shoulder tension

• Headaches