Acupuncture, an aspect of traditional Chinese medicine, is one of the oldest healing modalities in the world and has been used for thousands of years. Acupuncture can effectively treat a wide variety of health conditions and involves the insertion of tiny needles at various points in your body in order to stimulate the flow of qi -- life force energy -- and help balance your internal bodily systems. Although widely used for centuries in Asian countries, acupuncture has only become popular in the United States since the early 1970s and may be an effective and natural treatment for many of the discomforts of early pregnancy.
Morning Sickness
Acupuncture may provide effective relief for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. According to a study published in the March 2002 issue of "Birth," acupuncture was found to provide relief for women experiencing nausea and dry retching during their first trimester. Study participants received acupuncture once per week for four weeks and reported a decrease in nausea within the second week of treatment. A popular point that acupuncturists stimulate to help with nausea during pregnancy is called pericardium 6, which is located about 2 inches above the inner side of each wrist.
Other Pregnancy Complaints
Acupuncture may give you relief for a number of other early pregnancy complaints. According to Dr. Naomi Rabinowitz, who is also an acupuncturist, acupuncture may help reduce much of the worry, tension and anxiety you might experience during your first trimester, especially if it is your first pregnancy. Acupuncture may also help relieve pregnancy-related constipation, fatigue, headaches, heartburn and back pain as well as help reduce the chance of miscarriage during early pregnancy.
Risks and Side Effects
Acupuncture may cause some undesirable side effects, especially if you have never had treatment before. The most common side effect is feeling lightheaded or dizzy, which you can easily prevent if you show up to your acupuncture treatment with a little food in your stomach. Other side effects may include bruising, swelling or discomfort at the site of the needle, temporary aggravation of symptoms or infection. However, these side effects can be rare if your acupuncturist is properly trained and follows clean needle acupuncture techniques.
Find a Practitioner
Look for a qualified practitioner in your area, particularly one trained and experienced in treating women during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor, other healthcare provider, friends or relatives for a referral. You can also contact your local health department for a listing of licensed acupuncturists in your area or inquire with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine -- NCCAOM -- that has listings of qualified acupuncturists throughout the United States. Furthermore, ensure that your acupuncturist has completed all required education and training and holds a current license or certificate to practice acupuncture in your state.
