What To Expect During Your First Pregnancy

During pregnancy, more than any other time in life, women are more likely to seek out natural remedies and non-invasive, drug-free pain relief. During this process, we treat women holistically, as a unique and individual person rather than a collection of symptoms.

In Chinese medicine, it is believed that symptoms arising during pregnancy should be corrected as soon as possible to avoid imbalances resulting in a decrease of the body's energy necessary for proper fetal growth.

Acupressure is very effective in decreasing pain during labor. To learn more about these techniques and their effects during labor (click here)

First Trimester

This period is often considered one of the most crucial. After fertilization occurs the zygote repeatedly divides to form a solid sphere of cells referred to as a morula. Implantation occurs 10-14 days after ovulation. During this period the neural tube forms which will develop into the nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The heart and the primitive circulatory system rapidly form.  Acupuncture can help stabilize the fetus and address other symptoms such as morning sickness. This trimester requires the most attentive care and we recommend weekly visits during this time.

Second Trimester

During this trimester your baby begins to hear and respond to the outside environment. Facial expressions are possible, the baby's skeleton is developing bones which become visible during an ultrasound, and the baby's sex becomes apparent.  During this phase, the mother is going through many changes as her body grows and prepares for delivery. During this trimester acupuncture can help to address any symptoms that arise such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, leg cramps, dizziness, edema, etc.  Depending on the symptoms presenting we recommend one or two treatments per month.

Third Trimester

This is a time of rapid fetal development. Your baby's eyes open and can begin to detect light. Their bones become fully developed, and they can begin to practice breathing. Around 34 weeks after conception, rapid weight gain begins, around one-half pound a week. During this time acupuncture can help relieve symptoms such as back pain, heartburn, varicose veins and hemorrhoids that can cause discomfort.  Our treatments aim to keep the uterus relaxed and prevent premature contractions. Depending on the symptoms presenting we recommend one treatment per month, the weekly pre-birth visits starting week 35-6 through delivery.