We are always so excited for our patients when they become pregnant! Sometimes it’s been a long road to success, and sometimes it’s completely unplanned. Either way, the first trimester is such an important time to be taking care of yourself — and we want to help!

 Many women don’t realize that not only is acupuncture generally safe during pregnancy, treatments by highly experienced practitioners can make all the difference during this incredibly special time.

How, you ask? Allow me to enlighten you!

1. Regardless of what you are coming in for, at each appointment you are often asked questions about general health, such as digestion and sleep, which helps us to gain an overall understanding of your holistic health picture. This is no different during pregnancy. We want to make sure you are eating the right foods, taking the right supplements, avoiding bad habits, and getting good rest. While this is essential throughout your pregnancy, getting these things on board early in your pregnancy is very important as bub begins to develop its brain and vital organs during the first trimester.

All mums-to-be want to feel confident that their baby is getting the nourishment it needs for healthy, natural development. Acupuncture treatments alongside diet, supplements and herbal formulas, when needed, can encourage nutrient flow to your growing bub. This is the optimal time to ensure that your baby will get the most out of the next stages of pregnancy.

2. Especially true for first time mums, there are understandably a LOT of questions in the early stages of pregnancy, and consulting the internet can sometimes give conflicting advice. This can make some expectant mums very anxious. At your acupuncture sessions, you can have all of your questions answered and have recommendations made for you, as a unique individual. Your acupuncture treatment will then be customised to manage any symptoms you might be having. (Psssst! Acupuncture does incredible things for poor sleep, back aches and morning sickness!)

 3. While we want you to have all the support possible from family and friends, it’s so wonderful to have someone to confide in who will listen to you in a non-judgemental way and who can advise and support you in ways that align with your needs. Many women choose to wait until the end of the first trimester -or even longer- to announce their pregnancy, and this can sometimes make them feel very alone and stressed. The last thing your practitioner wants is for you to feel this way. Giving you the opportunity to discuss your experience in a safe and nurturing environment is what it is all about!

So what does a typical pregnancy treatment plan look like? We recommend coming in weekly or fortnightly for the first 12 weeks. Your practitioner can tell you how frequently you should be coming in based on your overall health, symptoms and previous fertility history. If there are any concerns or complications, it may be recommended that you have regular follow up treatments throughout your pregnancy. However, if you have a normal, healthy pregnancy and feel well, it is your choice if you would like to continue to have regular treatments after the first trimester.

We recommend weekly pre-labour treatments beginning at 37 weeks to facilitate a more comfortable delivery, and The Pagoda Tree offers a wonderful Pre-Labour Package to make this a no-brainer for you as you prepare to welcome your bundle of joy into your family!

Sarah is one of our talented practitioners here at The Pagoda Tree.  To get in touch with us to book in for your pregnancy support treatments and see what it’s all about! You can make a booking by ringing (03) 9686 7454 or by emailing us at reception@thepagodatree.com.au

We look forward to seeing you!