In response to an article I read this morning about the cultural post-partum traditions in rural Laos leading to post-partum and neonatal nutritional deficiencies, I’d like to say a few things on the subject. For a closer look at the article, check: http://tinyurl.com/nsorwp
It is not that spiritual beliefs should be abandoned in order to receive proper nutrition, because if the soul is not nourished, or fear arises out of non-compliance of the spiritual practice, the body has a hard time complying and damage can ensue. However, post-partum nutrition is extremely important for the revitalization of the mother and the growth of her child. Chinese medicine itself has roots in deep cultural traditions, but also recognizes the importance of modern nutritional needs in maternal and infant health during the post-partum period. Just as nutritional advice may not be the answer to all discomforts, acupuncture and herbal medicine can be of huge benefit as a natural alternative during this special time. At the Berkley Center for Women’s Health, we embody these principles fully.
In Chinese Medicine, childbirth is viewed as a huge expenditure of a woman’s vital energy and substance (referred to in our medicine as Qi & Blood). Proper rest, warmth and nutrition are all important in restoring a woman’s health after the event of childbirth. Depending on the relative loss to the relative deficiency, some women recuperate their energy much quicker than others and feel very few post-partum uncomfortable effects. For others, post-partum depression, fatigue, feeling weak, insufficient breast-milk production, muscle pain/tendinitis or digestive concerns may arise. These are not only uncomfortable to deal with, but are also signs that the body may need a little boost. Like anything ailing the body, the sooner it can be addressed through proper treatment, the sooner it will enable a woman to feel better in her own body, and have the energy to be present for the new being in her life.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine can be of great benefit, offering a natural way to boost a woman’s Qi and Blood that is safe for mom and baby during this delicate time. Depending on individual constitutional make-up, different women will require different protocols. In addition to helping restore the energy in a woman’s body, Chinese medicine can help address common infant concerns through treating the mother - an added plus! Sometimes, direct treatment for the infant is preferred in alleviating colic, sleep disturbance or digestive upset through pediatric acupressure techniques (another service offerred at our center).
As a new mom who may not feel her best, it can be a scary and perhaps lonely time. Oftentimes, discouraging emotions and feelings of inadequacy can arise. Women may feel guilty, blameful of self, or shame. If you have experienced this, or know someone who may be, I hope this message conveys the fact that you are not alone nor have you done something wrong. Such emotions in no way reflect a woman’s ability to be a parent. Your body has simply undergone huge and relatively rapid changes with pregnancy, and these feelings are simply signs that your body may need a little help adjusting to its new environment. There are many ways to help your body do this - prescription medications, talk therapy, exercise, nutritional supplementation and (of course) acupuncture and herbal medicine. The best medicine is prevention, so if you are pregnant now, I encourage you to make a relationship with an acupuncturist now in the event that you may benefit from treatment during the post-partum time, the call for support will be easy and familiar.
