New Beginnings
FERTILITY
Acupuncture & Fertility
Acupuncture is now widely recognised for its effectiveness in enhancing fertility for both male and females, whether it is unexplained infertility, assisted conception or a diagnosed condition.
Acupuncturists treat the menstrual cycle, regulating hormones, working to improve follicular development, endometrial thickness and ovarian function, as well as treating underlying problems such as endometriosis, P.C.O.S. etc. thereby improving the chances of conception.
Acupuncture can also reduce stress and anxiety often experienced by couples who are trying to conceive and can be so dynamic in those with unexplained infertility that it is just what is needed to turn things around.
For assisted conception research has shown that acupuncture can increase the chances of in-vitro fertilisation success by almost 50%. Acupuncture was shown to reduce stress and increase blood flow to the reproductive organs. It is recommended to start acupuncture treatments in advance of starting assisted conception ideally a few months if possible to prepare you mentally, emotionally and physically.
Fertility – natural and assisted conception
Female
- Assisted IUI, IVF, ICSI
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Hyper Ovarian Stimulation Syndrome H.O.S.S.
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome P.C.O.S.
- Unexplained infertility
Male
- Poor sperm count
- Poor motility
- Poor sperm morphology
Acupuncture is an ideal form of treatment for pregnant women as it offers a safe drug free alternative for a number of problems that can arise during pregnancy. I offer pre-birth acupuncture to teach couples acupressure techniques to aid women in labour, certain points can help to reduce painful contractions, stimulate contractions if slowed down, dilate the cervix, help the baby descend down the birth channel and also have a calming effect to help focus on the birthing process.
Acupuncture - Gynaecological
Many women suffer from a number of problems associated with their menstrual cycles acupuncture can be effective in regulating the cycle so that problems such as painful periods either disappear or are reduced and can help to bring back periods. Acupuncture can also be effective in treating menopausal symptoms for instance hot flushes, night sweats, anxiety and insomnia.
- Amenorrhoea – absence of periods
- Cystitis
- Dysmenorrhoea - painful periods
- Heavy periods
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Menopausal symptoms
- Pre-menstrual syndrome
- Thrush
- Vulvodynia
Other techniques maybe used in addition to acupuncture:
Moxibustion - a dried herb called mugwort is burnt to heat needles or directly used onto acupuncture points on the skin. Moxibustion has an influence on qi of the body and the ability to circulate qi and blood. Research has shown that it can stimulate blood flow in the uterus and pelvic area, this is perhaps why it is effective in relieving menstrual cramps and to turn breech babies.
Cupping- a vacuum in created in glass cups which are then placed onto the skin which has been pre-oiled, usually the back, this therapy is designed to draw toxins to the surface, increase circulation, relieve muscle tightness and tension. It is also used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis.
Electro-acupuncture - clips are attached to needles and then connected to a machine that produces small electrical currents. It can have a long lasting effect on pain and inflammation.
Homeopathy & Fertility
Specific homeopathic remedies can be used to both aid fertility and ease anxiety about conception. These will be individual and specific to the patient.
Homeopathic hormone treatment may also be used in cases of imbalance. For further details see the article “Women with hormone problems” on the homeopathy pages at www.allergfyfix.co.uk
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis can also benefit from Homeopathic treatment, again tailored specifically to the client.
PREGNANCY
Homeopathy & Pregnancy
Homeopathy can be very effective and completely safe during pregnancy for such symptoms as morning sickness, haemorrhoids and fluid retention. It can also be helpful for anxiety prior to and during the birth and to speed up labour where appropriate. Some remedies can help to turn a breach presentation.
After the birth Arnica is always recommended to assist mother and baby to recover quickly and other remedies can help if there have been complications such as a lengthy, or difficult birth, where both baby and mother need help to recover. It is not unusual for children who have had a lengthy birth to develop fear of the dark, or sleeplessness. Thus can be treated at what ever age to redress the balance.
Osteopathy – Pregnancy & Postnatal
Although a very special and happy experience, pregnancy can also have it’s downside as your body desperately tries to adapt to the rapid growth of your unborn child.
Osteopathic treatment during pregnancy is a gentle approach to try and allow your body to adapt to the changes taking place, and to give some symptomatic relief to the symptoms of pregnancy such as pain in the back and/or legs (e.g. sciatica) neck & shoulder pain, discomfort around the thorax & indigestion, wrist pain and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Osteopathy is also commonly used treatment to aid relief with post natal problems of the low back and pelvis. www.osteopathy.org.uk
- Cranial Osteopathy & Pregnancy
- Acupuncture – Pregnancy & Postnatal
- After pains
- Anxiety
- Back pain
- Bleeding
- Breech and posterior positions
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Constipation
- Cystitis
- Depression
- Dizziness
- Fatigue/tiredness
- Headaches
- Haemorrhoids/piles
- Heartburn
- Insomnia
- Itching
- Lactation - insufficient
- Labour induction
- Mastitis
- Miscarriage threatened/history
- Morning sickness
- Pelvic girdle pain
- Post natal depression
- Pre-birth preparation
- Rib pain
- Thrush
Massage
What is pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy massage is a massage therapy specifically tailored for the expectant mother's needs. It is also called pre-natal massage.
How is pregnancy massage different from regular massage?
The mother's body must be properly positioned and supported during the massage, using pillows and padding. Proper positioning ensures comfort and safety for the mother and baby.
Relax and reduce the aches and pains from pregnancy with a prenatal massage. Pregnancy massage focuses on the unique needs of the expectant mother and her baby as she goes through the miraculous changes associated with the childbearing year. Prenatal massage brings relief from swelling, stress, muscle cramps, and provides comfort to the mother-to-be. Cushions and pillows are used to place you in a relaxing side-lying position to ensure proper spinal alignment and support. Mild stretching and light Swedish massage strokes are then used to soothe your sore body. You will appreciate the reduced aching in stress bearing joints such as the ankles and lower back. You will leave the session feeling relaxed, restored, and rejuvenated!
BABIES / TODDLERS
Homeopathy & Babies/Toddlers
Homeopathy has no side effects, so its’ gentle but powerful action can be used to treat new-born babies upwards.
Babies and young children can be tested for food intolerances e.g. dairy products and treated accordingly.
Common ailments such as colic, teething, coughs and colds, eczema, asthma, sleep problems, tonsillitis and glue ear frequently respond well to Homeopathy.
(see also Common Ailments)
Homeopathy can also be used in the treatment of viral warts (Molluscum Contagiosum)
Children can also be treated with remedies to boost the immune system before the winter.
Homeopathic alternatives to most of the childhood vaccinations are also available.
