Birth Preparation
The Third trimester is the business end of your pregnancy and your body is working over time! Your belly will rapidly expand and your ligaments will loosen to allow the pelvis to open. You may experience back pain, hip pain, leg heaviness, disturbed sleep, shortness of breath, palpitations, changes in bowel motions, reflux or heartburn, restlessness, agitation, skin rashes etc.
Acupuncture will help regulate your body while it makes all the necessary changes to limit the discomfort you feel. Toward the end of the third trimester acupuncture prepares you for your labour and birth. Studies show that women who receive regular acupuncture during the third trimester typically have a shorter and less complicated labour.
If your baby is in a breach position we can help turn baby and would ideally see you during your 32nd or 33rd week of pregnancy. But don’t despair if you are past this stage we still experience very good success turning later stage babies.
Labour is an exceptionally exciting time, but can also be accompanied by a little anxiety. There are some things we can do to support you through this process. Acupuncture and the continued care that I offer can be of great comfort to expectant mums. During the last month of your pregnancy, from 36 weeks onwards, I suggest weekly appointments as this assists in the bodies natural process of ripening the cervix, softening and opening muscles and tendons, the pelvis and uterus. Acupuncture can also be very beneficial in helping to establish effective, regular contractions.
Acupuncture is also a safe, gentle and natural method for inducing labour for women that are past their estimated due date. Acupuncture can give your body a gentle nudge and encourage nature to take its course.