Swelling, also referred to as edema, is a common side effect of pregnancy. According to the American Pregnancy Association, during pregnancy your body produces 50 percent more blood and body fluid to help nourish your baby, soften your body and prepare your pelvic joints for birth. Although swelling is a normal aspect of pregnancy, it can become uncomfortable, especially toward the end of your pregnancy when fluid production is at its peak. You can seek safe, natural and effective treatments such as acupuncture to help reduce the excess fluid you might have in your hands, feet and ankles.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine that originated in China more than 5,000 years ago. This therapy involves inserting tiny needles at various points throughout your body with the intent to activate your body's qi, or life force energy, which can help relieve pain, treat and prevent illness and balance your internal organs, hormones and bodily systems. Since acupuncture is a natural treatment option that does not involve taking medications that might negatively affect your unborn baby, you can consider it as an effective option to help reduce your pregnancy swelling.
Points
According to Yin Yang House, acupuncture might provide effective relief for swelling during pregnancy. If you have mild swelling in your ankles or hands, your acupuncturist might diagnose you with spleen or kidney deficiency and use points that can help boost their function. Acupuncture point spleen 9 has a diuretic effect and can reduce swelling, while spleen 3 strengthens the functioning of the spleen. Kidney 7 and kidney 3 are two additional acupuncture points that can help strengthen your kidney function and improve water metabolism.
Treatment
When you see your acupuncturist for the first time, she might ask you a number of questions about your chief complaint, symptoms, medical and family history and lifestyle. She will look at your tongue and feel your pulse to come up with an accurate Chinese medical diagnosis. You will lie comfortably while your acupuncturist inserts tiny needles at various points on your body, such as your arms, legs, hands and feet. You will relax with the needles inserted for 20 to 60 minutes and might even fall asleep during your treatment. You might need several acupuncture treatments to find lasting relief from your pregnancy swelling.
Safety
Consult with your doctor or midwife prior to using acupuncture for pregnancy swelling. Ask your healthcare practitioner or your local health department for a reputable referral for a licensed acupuncturist in your area. You might consider choosing an acupuncturist who specializes in treating women during pregnancy, since there are certain acupuncture points that should not be used on pregnant women. Furthermore, although acupuncture generally is considered safe with little to no side effects, you might experience bruising, discomfort at the site of the needle or bleeding with treatment. Ask your acupuncturist to inform you about all potential risks associated with receiving acupuncture treatment.
