Bouncing Beginnings: acupuncture during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a process that is both beautiful and exciting! Conceiving and preparing for a little one to come into this world is a transformative time in any parent’s life, and a proper support system can make all the difference. At Springs Community Acupuncture, we’re fortunate to have established a strong connection with Beginnings Birth Center here in Colorado Springs. The amazing midwives there have a holistic approach to women's health in all stages of pregnancy, including postpartum care. We fully support this approach, which makes for happier, healthier mothers and babies, and love collaboration. 

​Acupuncture can offer great support during pregnancy. It is safe, non-invasive and surprisingly effective at addressing common concerns that can arise. In the first trimester, we can help control nausea and morning sickness. Acupuncture can help with a variety of digestive issues throughout pregnancy, like heartburn and constipation as well. 

In mid to late pregnancy, blood pressure can start to spike. We have had great results controlling gestational hypertension with regular acupuncture. This can go a long way to increase well-being and decrease stress, especially for expectant moms who are hoping to avoid a hospital birth.

Later in pregnancy we also treat for breech position of the baby. Certain points encourage baby to reposition and can be very effective. We needle these points at the clinic and show patients how to use moxibustion to stimulate the points at home with heat. 

Acupuncture is also a powerful tool to prepare for and induce labor. There are certain points we avoid during pregnancy that are powerful Qi movers. Once the pregnancy is full-term, we can start adding these points in, to prepare for labor. As the due date approaches, we often add e-stim (a small electric current) to certain points to increase the intensity of treatments, boost blood flow to the uterus, and trigger contractions. 

After baby is born, acupuncture can help with rest, recovery, rebalancing hormones and boosting mood. This time is a big reset for the body, that can be transformative for overall health. In addition, acupuncture can help with nursing, by increasing milk production or even alleviating mastitis.

Our pregnant patients love coming in for an acu-nap in our comfy recliners, and best of all, the babies love it too! They start kicking and dancing as soon as the needles are in.  What a joyful way to support the journey into motherhood!

- Kyndl and Hannah