Acupuncture Relief For Common Pregnancy Complaints

The third trimester of pregnancy can bring about discomforts that were not present in early pregnancy. East Bay Acupuncture can help with common conditions and pain, particularly in the last trimester of pregnancy. Aimee Ruiz, M.S., L.Ac. is trained as a doula, with post-graduate work in fertility, prenatal, and birth education, as well as her Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The following conditions and discomforts of pregnancy can be treated with integrative medicine and prenatal acupuncture.

It is common for digestion to slow down during pregnancy. Many people experience constipation and hemorrhoids in their second or third trimester of pregnancy. Heartburn is another common symptom due to relaxin, (a hormone produced by the ovaries and placenta), but pregnancy-related heartburn also happens because there is less space in your body as your baby grows. 

Acupuncture is a safe technique for relieving constipation during pregnancy. According to Chinese medicine, constipation is seen as stagnant energy in the intestines or a lack of moisture. Acupuncture or acupressure techniques can effectively re-regulate bowel movements by helping to get the circulation flowing again and bringing moisture to the area if needed. Acupuncture treatment can help open blockages, stimulate peristalsis, and bring on a bowel movement. 

Heartburn is very common during pregnancy and is an easily treated condition with natural medicine. It is a burning sensation in the esophagus and can have a number of associated symptoms, such as a burning sensation in the chest and throat, and a sour, acidic taste. Acupuncture and acupressure are both safe to use during pregnancy, and can give you immediate and long-lasting relief from these symptoms. 

Hemorrhoids caused by swollen blood vessels around the rectum are a common symptom of pregnancy. In the advanced stages of pregnancy, many women report external hemorrhoids due to uterine pressure on blood veins in the pelvic and rectal areas. Hemorrhoids can be effectively treated with acupuncture, herbs, and other traditional Chinese medicine therapies. 

Body pain is common in pregnancy. The hormone relaxin increases, which can cause some pelvic instability and may create a strain on round ligaments. As your baby grows, you might feel pressure on your pelvis, low back, and hips. Acupuncture works by bringing more circulation to the area which reduces inflammation and swelling, and relaxes the muscles so that spasms cease. It also affects the nervous system, reducing the pain response elicited by the trouble areas in the hip and back. 

Tingling, numb, and painful hands are likely caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, which is common in pregnancy. A buildup of fluid in the wrists compresses the median nerve, causing tingling and numbness. Acupuncture and acupressure can help to reduce the inflammation and fluid in painful areas and also stimulate the release of pain-relieving endorphins, and can help to ease the pain of carpal tunnel syndrome caused by pregnancy. 

Round ligament pain is a sharp pain or jabbing feeling often felt in the lower belly or groin area on one or both sides. It is one of the most common discomforts during pregnancy, felt most often during the second and third trimesters but can happen sooner. Prenatal acupuncture can provide symptom relief, reduce inflammation, and treat your pregnancy pain.

East Bay Acupuncture specializes in acupuncture for pregnancy. Reach out to us for more information!