LABOR PREP ACUPUNCTURE IN IDAHO SPRINGS

Labor prep Acupuncture is a series of treatments in the last month of pregnancy to prepare your body for labor.  Starting at 36-37 weeks, you’ll come in at least once a week to receive treatments that help your body and mind engage the cascade of events leading to a successful labor.

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Acupuncture is SAFE and EFFECTIVE at improving the efficiency of the laboring process.  Research has shown that Acupuncture can both reduce the length of labor and the pain felt during labor, as well as reduce the anxiety and fear around the process.  In many European countries, Acupuncture for labor prep is a standard practice that all laboring folks have access to.  It is used by midwives and is a standard of care in hospitals. 

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Acupuncture can be used in many ways in the last stages of pregnancy, all with the goal of balancing the body, mind and spirit:

• Acupoints with an emphasis on preparing the cervix and pelvis for labor

• Acupoints which stimulate the hormones of labor

• Acupoints which connect the heart and the uterus

• Acupoints which balance emotions

• Acupoints that help deal with late-stage pregnancy discomfort

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How are these pre-birth treatments different from using Acupuncture to induce labor?  It is true that many of the same points are used in both labor prep and “induction” acupuncture, the effectiveness is different.  Acupuncture works best as a series of treatments because the results of acupuncture are cumulative.  While one intense Acupuncture treatment *may* help stimulate labor in someone who has gone to 41 or 42 weeks, it is not as reliable as the routine pre-birth treatments.  Acupuncture is often only offered to someone who is about to go over their “due date” as a last resort… while it’s effectiveness is actually higher in someone who has been receiving it weekly since 36 or 37 weeks. 

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Why do your labor prep with me?  I offer a non-clinical approach to every treatment.  My clinic is inclusive to all laboring people.  You’re in a quiet, spa-like setting, away from the distractions of family, friends or work.  You’re able to rest. I believe in your body’s ability to birth your baby, and I surround you with empowering advice that allows you to believe in your own strength.  I’m a doula who has worked closely with homebirth midwives to learn the best practices of supporting natural labor.  I’m also highly trained in pregnancy and postpartum Acupuncture and care and I’m committed to your birth experience.