What are the best
complementary therapies to help you through pregnancy, birth and beyond
Complementary medicine is the
blanket term for a number of holistic therapies that aim to treat the whole
person, on physical, mental and emotional levels, rather than targeting
specific symptoms. Therapies include acupuncture and reflexology.
How can it help?
"Treatments can be very
helpful to use alongside conventional care," explains Denise Tiran, a
midwife and honorary lecturer at the University of Greenwich, specialising in
complementary therapies. "Therapies can be used for pregnancy discomforts,
such as backache, for pain relief in labour and recovery after the birth."
Is it safe?
Yes, if used with appropriate
advice and knowledge. It's important to find a qualified therapist who is aware
of the specific implications of pregnancy, as all therapies have some risks.
"If they are powerful enough to do something good when used correctly,
they will also have the potential to be harmful when used incorrectly,"
says Tiran.
1. Acupuncture
One of the most widely researched
therapies: studies have detailed the usefulness of acupuncture for relieving
morning sickness and it can be used from as early as six weeks.
2. Alexander Technique
Learning the technique can
help your body cope better with the stress and strain of carrying all that
extra weight. The technique is also thought to have a calming effect and is
good preparation for birth.
3. Aromatherapy
Many essential oils are
contraindicated during pregnancy, but a qualified aromatherapist will know
which ones are safe to use. Single or combination blends can help treat nausea,
alleviate anxiety, reduce swelling, ease headaches and encourage a good night's
sleep.
4. Flower Remedies
These are best used for
maintaining emotional health throughout pregnancy, rather than treating
physical ailments. Use them for challenging situations - if you are worrying
about procedures, for instance, or if you are fearful of the birth. The most
well-known flower therapy is Bach Rescue Remedy, used to bring calm in times of
stress, but Bach has 38 others to choose from.
5. Herbs
Thought to be very useful,
herbs can help to alleviate common and more complex pregnancy complaints.
However, some herbs can put pregnancy at risk, so it is very important to seek
a qualified medical herbalist.
6. Homeopathy
There are homeopathic remedies
for every pregnancy eventuality covering pre-conceptual care, pregnancy-related
ailments and recovery after the birth. You can self-prescribe for
straightforward acute ailments, such as morning sickness and nausea. The
Society of Homeopaths (www.homeopathy-soh.org) publishes a leaflet Homeopathy
For Mother And Baby which will help you choose the right treatment.
7. Massage
Research shows that massage is
an effective form of pain relief and some women find it very helpful during
labour. Specific pregnancy massage can also help to ease discomforts such as
backache, headache and constipation, as well as relieving anxiety and promoting
wellbeing. Avoid deep, kneading massage in pregnancy.
8. Osteopathy
This can help your body adjust
to the weight of your baby. Both osteopathy and chiropractic can relieve
breathing difficulties and encourage the baby into a good position. Cranial osteopathy
is recommended during pregnancy, as it is extremely gentle.
9. Reflexology
You can try reflexology after
the three-month mark of your pregnancy, although it is not recommended for
anyone with a history of recurrent miscarriage. Research shows that it boosts
energy levels, relieves heartburn, reduces swelling and normalises
hypertension.
10. Shiatsu
Literally translated shiatsu
means 'finger pressure' and focuses on the same points and meridians that are
used in acupuncture. Its aim is to re-establish energy flow and wellbeing. It
is thought to be helpful in relieving aches and pains and morning sickness.
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