if you're carrying a high risk pregnancy, you know that it involves extra stress, logistics, monitoring appointments, and coordination to manage the pregnancy. Whether due to age alone or additionally diagnosed medical conditions, having a high risk pregnancy can be an exhausting and worrying process. Did you know that acupuncture and moxibustion can support you during this time? Acupuncture is well regarded as one of the primary care tools during pregnancy due to its minimal intervention and high efficacy. It is known to be effective for lowering stress, improving sleep, increasing energy, decreasing pain, improving digestion, decreasing heartburn, and more, all without drugs. Acupuncture can specifically be helpful during a high-risk pregnancy to help with:

• Lowering blood pressure in cases of gestational hypertension
• Increasing blood flow to the uterine area to support fetal growth and development (important for cases of fetal growth restriction / intrauterine growth restriction)
• Increasing mom's energy levels and ability to manage the gestation of multiple fetuses

Moxibustion is an additional tool that can be useful during this time. The process of moxibustion involves burning an herb (Chinese mugwort, known also as moxa) near specific acupuncture points. Some studies indicate that the use of moxibustion on certain points can help with lowering blood pressure -- especially important if there is a risk of pre-eclampsia during pregnancy. Moxibustion can also be used during pregnancy to help turn a breech baby, relieve muscle pain and some joint pains, aid with some digestion problems, and increase mom's overall energy levels. All of these improvements require no drugs and are therefore quite safe for both mom and baby or babies. Are you curious as to whether acupuncture and moxibustion can support you in your pregnancy? Call me for a free consultation to discuss your pregnancy support needs! Here's to the health of you and your baby!