Pregnancy Support by Trimester

First Trimester
Most patients choose weekly visits to:
• Prevent miscarriage
• Learn dietary strategies for meeting pregnancy needs and reducing nausea and vomiting
• Decrease the need for cold, flu or pain medication
• Symptom management during physician-supervised withdrawal from antidepressants or other medications
• Reduce headaches, low-back,
or chronic pain

Second Trimester
During this more stable time most of patients are seen monthly to address minor issues as they arise. More frequent visits are  occasionally recommended in the following situations:

• High-risk pregnancies including carrying of multiples
• History of complications in prior pregnancies

• At risk for hypertension or gestational diabetes
• Ongoing nausea and vomiting
• At risk for preterm labor

Third Trimester
At 37 weeks most  patients visit weekly to prepare for labor.  This preparation enhances cervical ripening and reduces the time between due date and delivery.  Research shows that weekly acupuncture from week 37 until delivery  reduces the incidence of induction, and c-section, and decreases the length of time in labor.  Acupuncturists can work alongside the obstetrician or midwife to address the following common problems:
• Breech presentation-most successfully addressed at 34-35 weeks
• Inducing labor in post dates pregnancies on recommendation of the OB or midwife
• Pain management in late stage pregnancy