Comfortable Early Pregnancy
Morning Sickness
Nausea and vomiting, commonly referred to as morning sickness, occurs in approximately half of all pregnancies. Its onset is usually in the 5th to 6th week of pregnancy and subsides by the 14th to 16th week, however, it can appear as early as a woman’s first missed period and last well into the second trimester. As the body changes, hormone levels as well as blood sugar levels fluctuate contributing to the nausea. In addition to this deficiencies of B Vitamins and zinc can be causative factors. Other common triggers include stress and fatigue. Although nausea and vomiting are common experiences in early pregnancy they are still not pleasant. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help ease this period by decreasing the sympathetic nervous system to reduce stress and calm the mind. By relaxing the body and returning it a more “rest-and-digest” state where our parasympathetic is more active, blood circulation is improved to the digestive system allowing the stomach to calm and settle.
Research
Bleeding and Threatened Miscarriage:
Bleeding, low back pain and cramping occur in about 40% of pregnancies in the first trimester but can also happen at any stage of a pregnancy and should always be taken seriously. Most women who report bleeding but have a closed cervix and a fetal heartbeat are simply sent back home and told to ‘wait and see’, this often leaves women feeling helpless, lonely and anxious. Research has shown that having continuous support as well as reduced stress levels helps to significantly reduce the chances of miscarriage when bleeding is present. Acupuncture helps by promoting relaxation and balancing hormone levels as well as inhibiting uterine contractions. For many women in this situation just being able to come in and have someone listen to them and provide lifestyle advice as well as relaxation methods is enough to make a difference.
The next stage in the Acumamas pregnancy process is Health and Wellness throughout pregnancy