ACUPUNCTURE BEATS MORNING SICKNESS
The condition of ‘morning sickness’ is a misnomer. It can in fact strike at any time, day or night, sometimes constantly. It is often described as a terrible hangover that never relents, car sickness or food poisoning that doesn’t get better. It is experienced mostly in the early stages of pregnancy between six and sixteen weeks, although for some unfortunate women it can be a constant until they reach full term. It is thought that this often-debilitating condition is caused by the huge surge of circulating hormones. Stress and fatigue are also thought to be contributing factors. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and retching; Morning sickness often interferes with productivity and can result in time off work needed or extra childcare if there are other young children to look after. Acupuncture can support you through this time.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the natural flow of Qi (or energy) can be disrupted in early pregnancy as the body deals with the myriad of adjustments required to sustain a pregnancy. The objective of acupuncture is to establish the correct flow of Qi. This will diminish, and often completely resolve the symptoms of morning sickness. This restoration of balance will also boost energy levels and lower stress.
The effectiveness of acupuncture to treat morning sickness has been recognised in the Western medical arena. With clinical research finding acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for morning sickness (Smith & Crowther Complementary Therapies in Medicine; 10(4):210-6. 2002).
For women suffering from morning sickness, Acupuncture provides a safe, effective solution that can improve the experience of early pregnancy. Acupuncture is recognised by most private health funds.
