Your body goes through many incredible changes during each trimester of pregnancy, but it can also bring some physical and emotional challenges along the way.
Aches and pains are common symptoms as a woman’s body adapts to the rapid transformation of supporting a new life from within.
So how can we support you during this season of your life?
Acupuncture and massage therapy can be used successfully to treat a wide range of pregnancy-related conditions. Keep reading to find out how Registered Acupuncturist Sarah McGuire and Registered Massage Therapist Marly Hill use their practices to support expectant mothers.
Acupuncture
First Trimester
During the first trimester, we focus on setting your pregnancy up for complete health and giving you a stable foundation. Acupuncture points are used to prevent miscarriage and early pregnancy symptoms like fatigue, nausea and vomiting.
Second Trimester
Acupuncture works to balance hormones and help with low back and pelvic pain, as well as headaches and depression. Consistent treatment provides relaxation and regulation to the digestive, nervous, and endocrine systems, which are vital body regulators during pregnancy.
Third Trimester
Third-trimester acupuncture, specifically pre-birth treatment, involves a series of four treatments from weeks 36-37 to prepare for labour. Points are used to assist in cervical ripening, exhaustion, anxiety, breech position, induction, limiting fatigue and preparing the body for an efficient labour. Rest assured, you will be comfortable with the heated adjustable table and pregnancy pillow, which allows for multiple positions and maximum comfort.
— Sarah McGuire, R.Ac
How can Massage Therapy benefit you during pregnancy?
Massage therapy can be very beneficial for decreasing the physical stress on a pregnant woman’s body, while also creating a tranquil sense of relaxation to the nervous system.
Manual lymphatic drainage can help increase blood and lymph circulation which can reduce swelling in hands, feet and ankles. Myofascial techniques can bring relief from muscle cramps, spasms and nerve compression issues such as sciatica. Gentle techniques to superficial tissues can help to enhance the elasticity and pliability of the skin, which can reduce the possibility of stretch marks and scar tissue formation.
Massage therapy is an effective way to reduce stress hormones within the body, which can help ease emotional tension and improve related issues such as insomnia and anxiety. Increasing circulation and improving the ability to flush toxins from the body helps to create a healthy environment for both mom and baby.
Pregnancy is a miraculous and life-changing journey and maintaining a proper self-care routine is key to easing the strain of the challenges that arise along the way. Always be kind to yourself throughout this amazing venture, and remember that a happy, healthy mom leads to a happy, healthy baby.
— Marly Hill, RMT
To support your body during this season of life, book in for an acupuncture and massage treatment with the use of our new pregnancy pillow. These two treatments work in conjunction with one another to ease the mind and body struggles that come with this journey. Book online at theiv.ca or give us a call at 604-974-8999
