Acupuncture, Acupressure and Reflexology In Pregnancy

By Patricia | May 17, 2011
Chinese Therapies In Pregnancy

There are several changes that a woman’s body goes through during the entire course of pregnancy. While some of the changes may be relatively moderate and easy to adjust to, many of the changes could cause some amount of discomfort to the pregnant women. Unfortunately, unlike others, pregnant women do not have the choice to pop pain relievers or other such medication every time they undergo any discomfort. Therefore, they have no other option, but to rely on alternate methods of treatment and therapy to alleviate their discomfort. This is why several women are exploring the effectiveness of alternate pain relieving methods such as acupressure, acupuncture and reflexology in pregnancy.

Acupuncture in pregnancy

Acupuncture can be described as the Chinese treatment for pain and other diseases, in which the tips of needles are inserted at certain specific points on the skin. It is believed that this practice promotes the flow of life force throughout the body, which improves overall health and well-being. There are several women around the world, who have now started using acupuncture during pregnancy, for relief from symptoms like morning sickness, cramps, mood swings, bladder problems, and so on. However, the needles should not be inserted into certain points, for pregnant women and trying acupuncture during the early stages of pregnancy can lead to uterine contractions. Therefore, women who decide to try acupuncture during pregnancy should choose a licensed and well experienced practitioner.

Acupressure in pregnancy

Acupressure is also a Chinese method of pain treatment, in which pressure is applied to certain parts of the body, using the fingers. Several women use acupressure in pregnancy, to reduce backaches, nausea, dehydration, edema, sleeping problems, anxiety, indigestion, headaches, constipation and several other problems.

Reflexology in pregnancy

Reflexology can be described as the art of applying pressure either to the hands, or the feet, without any lotion or oil. Only specific hand, thumb and finger techniques are used in reflexology. Women use hand reflexology in pregnancy, as well as foot reflexology during pregnancy, as a form of alternate therapy for alleviating several ailments. Some of the problems that can be reduced with the help of reflexology in pregnancy are:

  • Excessive stress
  • Indigestion problems
  • Tension and headaches
  • backaches

However, it is absolutely essential to consult a doctor, before trying out acupressure, acupuncture or reflexology in pregnancy. In fact, women who are planning to have a baby soon had best speak to a doctor about the feasibility of undergoing acupuncture, acupressure or reflexology during ovulation too.

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