Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy? Yes! And this is how it benefits you.
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A little over a year ago, when my husband and I had the initial thought of planning to grow our family, I started seeing an acupuncturist who specializes in fertility. The main reason was that I wanted to try and get my body to the optimal condition before I get pregnant. My then acupuncturist also gave me a lot of lifestyle advice to help me prepare for pregnancy which I found really helpful.
Earlier this year I found out I was pregnant and I stopped going to the acupuncturist because I immediately assumed that acupuncture may not be “safe” or suitable for pregnant women. However, I soon discovered I was so wrong — acupuncture is a very effective and safe self-care option for expecting moms.
In fact, getting acupuncture during pregnancy can benefit pregnant women in many different ways throughout each trimester. If you’re searching for ways to help with symptoms such as morning sickness, constipation, lower back pain, anxiety, etc., you may want to consider acupuncture!
Read on to learn more about how exactly acupuncture can help you during your pregnancy.
Click here to read about the 3 pregnancy-safe facial oils I’m loving right now
Acupuncture helps restore harmony to your body and mind
While some people may think acupuncture only applies to one’s harmony in a physical sense, since we are talking about actual needles being poked into the skin, the treatment can actually help with one’s moods and emotions, too. According to acupuncturist Dr. Emily Tepper who’s also a birth doula, pregnant women who experience anxiety during their pregnancy find acupuncture treatments extremely calming. It’s normal to feel uneasy, especially for first-time moms like myself, and I recognize the importance of addressing my emotions.
I’ve been having trouble sleeping and the 3 best naps I’ve ever taken since I got pregnant have been on the acupuncture bed. This goes to show how relaxing the process really is — the needles look scarier than they actually are, so don’t be nervous about them!
It helps you adapt to your new body
Every week, sometimes everyday, I feel like I’m learning about my new pregnant body. There’s been a lot of surprises along the way, including twice when I almost fainted due to low blood sugar levels. I also did have pretty bad morning sickness during my first trimester although I never actually vomited (thankfully). But what really bothered me the most was the frequent nauseated feeling I would get from being in a car, from eating particular things, from lack of quality sleep, from the heat… and the list goes on.
When I went for my treatment for the first time since I got pregnant, the acupuncturist worked on relieving nausea for me. But what’s more, he then showed me a few acupressure points that help with nausea that I can simply apply pressure on whenever needed. I honestly thought it was the best “gift” anyone has given me during my first few months of being pregnant.
As my belly continues to grow, I’m starting to notice new discomforts. For example, I’m currently dealing with water retention and constipation. With new “challenges” that come my way, it’s comforting to know that I won’t be coping with them alone and that I can rely some of it on getting support from acupuncturists.
Acupuncture is personalized to cater to your needs
Every pregnancy is different. Many people deal with lower back pain, for instance, while some don’t. But regardless, it is essential to be able to receive the best treatment that suits you and caters to your needs. Acupuncture is never a set formula for every single person — that’s why consultation sessions are important and always take place prior to a session. Because it is essential for the practitioner to know what you’re going through with your pregnancy.
Advice on what to do or eat are personalized, too, because your everyday lifestyle also plays a huge role in your overall well-being.
One of my favorite places for acupuncture in NYC: Ora Space
If you live in New York, one of my favorite go-to places for acupuncture is called Ora Space. They currently have locations in NoHo, Upper East Side, and the Hamptons. I’ve been going to the NoHo location because it’s easier for me to get to — the space is beautiful, and each private room is equipped with heated beds. The rooms are also set up for you to set your own desired temperature and choose music of your choice to relax and unwind.
In addition to the acupuncture treatments, Ora offers the option of cupping and gua sha as add-on services as well. While I’ve been told that cupping is not suitable for those who are pregnant, gua sha facials are great and safe during pregnancy.
Ora Space: https://oraspace.com/
NoHo Location: 9 East 4th Street, New York, NY 10003
If you have more questions about acupuncture and my experience at Ora, please feel free to leave a comment below or send me a DM via Instagram. While I will not have all the answers, I promise you I will do my best to find them for you!
P.S. Always consult with your doctor on whether there are treatments or practices you should avoid during your pregnancy.
Thank you for stopping by Happily Ever Style.
xx,
Tricia
Your skin is what you eat!