At Asheville Integrative Acupuncture, our primary aim is to assist you in achieving a successful pregnancy and welcoming a healthy baby into your life. However, our support doesn't end there; we also offer Postpartum Acupuncture as an essential part of our care.
In Chinese Medicine, it is believed that how a woman treats her physical body in the initial 30 days following childbirth significantly impact her health and can have a lasting impact on her well-being in the long run.
Throughout pregnancy, a woman generously directs her body's resources toward her growing child. This giving continues through the taxing process of childbirth, depleting her reserves of vital energy (known as qi) and blood. From a Chinese perspective, this leaves a new mother more susceptible to invasions of wind, cold, or dampness, as her body has been weakened and emptied by the birthing experience. On a positive note, this period presents a unique opportunity for rejuvenation and a chance to reset her constitution, provided she takes diligent care of herself and her newborn.
Postpartum care is centered around the concepts of warming and "tonifying" the new mother's body. Think of it as reigniting the pilot light. The ideal time to reintroduce warmth is typically five to seven days after birth, assuming there are no signs of infection. In many cultures, warming practices are standard post-birth care routines. These may involve the use of hot stones, warm water bottles, soothing oils, or comforting fires.
Postpartum acupuncture, in particular, offers several potential benefits for new mothers. Here are some of these potential advantages:
Hormonal Balance: Acupuncture has the capacity to regulate hormonal levels after childbirth, aiding in the recovery process. It can assist the body in reestablishing hormonal equilibrium, potentially alleviating postpartum symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and depression.
Pain Relief: Postpartum discomfort, such as back pain, perineal soreness, or breast engorgement, is common. Acupuncture can provide relief by triggering the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relievers, potentially reducing discomfort and promoting a quicker recovery.
Stress Reduction: The postpartum phase can be both physically and emotionally overwhelming. Acupuncture sessions can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. By targeting specific acupuncture points, it may enhance the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with well-being.
Enhanced Milk Production: Some mothers encounter challenges with breastfeeding and low milk supply. Acupuncture may stimulate milk production by increasing blood flow to the breasts and harmonizing the body's energy pathways. It can also address related issues like clogged ducts or mastitis.
Hormonal Regulation for Breastfeeding: Acupuncture may aid in regulating the hormonal fluctuations linked to breastfeeding, such as the release of prolactin. This support can help establish a consistent milk supply and encourage lactation.
Postpartum Depression Support: Acupuncture has been found beneficial in managing postpartum depression. By targeting specific acupuncture points, it may help restore the body's energy balance and regulate neurotransmitters related to mood. It is often used in conjunction with other postpartum depression treatments as a complementary therapy.
It is essential to recognize that while acupuncture offers potential benefits, individual experiences may differ. Consulting with a licensed acupuncturist specializing in postpartum care is advisable to determine the most suitable approach for your specific needs. Additionally, it is always recommended to inform your healthcare provider about any complementary therapies you are considering.
Postpartum Acupuncture In Asheville
If your about to have a baby or have just had a baby, congratulations! Now is the time to take care of your postpartum health and try acupuncture for your postpartum symptoms.
In addition to helping you through your postpartum care, Dr. Kystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L.Ac. specializes in helping patients with fertility, through pregnancy and birth. With over 12 years of experience, Dr. Kinnunen has helped hundreds and she can help you feel better too. In addition to being a licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Kinnunen is a trained midwife’s assistant, Reiki Master, and prenatal yoga instructor.
Click here or call/text 828-739-0345 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, and begin your path to wellness through the healing art of acupuncture.
