Location: Lafayette, CA

Article (400 words):

For many women the joy of a positive pregnancy test is subdued by first trimester anxiety and stress, fatigue, morning sickness and nausea, and constipation and other digestive symptoms.

It’s a challenge to deal with these issues while trying not to take pharmaceutical medications that might have side effects for the fetus!

Thankfully, Chinese medicine is a non-pharmaceutical, minimally invasive approach that is effective for supporting women through many of the first trimester concerns.

Acupuncture and other Chinese medicine tools are highly effective at modulating the digestive system, helping to improve digestive strength, reduce inflammation, and improve both nutrient absorption and movement through the digestive system. Many women find that acupuncture helps to relieve nausea and eases constipation.

Often during the first trimester food aversions are high and eating certain foods becomes challenging. That may still be the case with acupuncture, but many women find that they are less likely to be nauseous, vomiting, or generally feeling ill when they are getting regular acupuncture sessions during that timeframe.

Fatigue

Did you know that during the first trimester, pregnant women are growing an entirely new organ? The placenta, which is the source of nutrient and oxygen exchange between the mother and baby, forms from the beginning of pregnancy and takes over the body’s hormone production by the end of those first 13 weeks. This is one of the main reasons for exhaustion in the first trimester!

While we coach women to rest as much as possible in order for the body to put sufficient resources towards developing the placenta and the fetus, acupuncture and moxibustion are both effective methods for increasing the overall energy stores for our hard-working mothers!

Stress and Anxiety

While the first trimester can be filled with joy, for many women it is also fraught with anxiety and stress. Acupuncture is a very well-known method for calming the nervous system, reducing stress, anxiety, and worries. When acupuncture is used regularly during the first trimester it can make a major difference in mom’s mental health during early pregnancy.

For those women who continue to struggle with mental health during the early part of the pregnancy, we always recommend consultation with their primary care doctor as well as optional referrals to perinatal mental health professionals.

Get Started

If you’re in the early stages of pregnancy and seeking relief for your symptoms, contact us at Inspire Family Acupuncture to learn more and begin care. Here’s to your and your baby’s health!