Becoming a new mom is a beautiful, yet challenging experience. For almost everyone, among all the joy, there are overwhelming moments of physical and emotional stress. Today, we’ll explore three ways acupuncture can help with postpartum care. Acupuncture can improve your emotional well-being, physical health, and hormonal balance, and we are going to dive deeper into all of that today!

At our Edmonton clinic, we specialize in helping new mothers feel their best. Book a consultation today, read our glowing reviews, or get in touch with us to learn more! 

1. Emotional Well-being

Reduction in Postpartum Depression Symptoms

Firstly, we’ve already mentioned that the transition into motherhood can be emotionally taxing. For many new moms, postpartum depression is a real concern (affecting about 15% of women, but research has shown it’s underreported). By stimulating the brain’s production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, acupuncture has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression. Moreover, acupuncture is a safe, non-invasive treatment that can be used alongside other therapies such as medications for postpartum depression. Many women have reported feeling a huge improvement in their mood after just a few sessions.

Alleviation of Anxiety and Stress

Juggling responsibilities while caring for a newborn can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed. Acupuncture works wonders in reducing anxiety by promoting relaxation and decreasing the body’s stress hormones, like cortisol.

Additionally, clinical studies have shown that acupuncture can ease anxiety by helping regulate your nervous system. It boosts circulation and promotes relaxation, and these appointments can be a great time for new moms to unwind and calm their minds.

2. Physical Health

Pain Relief

Postpartum recovery often involves dealing with various types of pain (back pain, episiotomy pain, C-section recovery — the list goes on and on). Acupuncture targets specific points to relieve tension and boost your body’s natural healing response. Similarly, women recovering from episiotomies or C-sections can benefit from acupuncture’s anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of acupuncture speed up the healing process.

Living in pain is not your only option. Our specialists in Edmonton are here to provide personalized acupuncture treatments to help you feel better, faster.

Assistance with Breastfeeding Challenges

Especially in the first few days after giving birth, breastfeeding can be challenging for new moms. If you are struggling with breastfeeding challenges we strongly encourage you to first begin working with a lactation consultant such as Little Nursing Company. Remember fed is best. Acupuncture can help new mothers start breastfeeding by regulating hormones and increasing milk production.  It can also help reduce pain and discomfort from breastfeeding, including upper back and neck tightness and tension, making it more enjoyable for both mother and baby. 

Help in Managing Headaches and Sleep Disturbances

Lastly, it’s not uncommon for new mothers to experience headaches and sleep disturbances because of hormonal changes and the demands of caring for a newborn (in case nobody told you – they don’t sleep!). While acupuncture won’t stop your baby from waking up every two hours, it can help to balance the nervous system, improve sleep quality, and reduce the frequency of headaches.

3. Hormonal Balance

Regulation of Hormonal Imbalances Post-Birth

Finally, let’s talk about your hormones. Hormonal imbalances are common after childbirth, causing mood swings, weight gain, and other health issues. Acupuncture helps regulate these hormones by targeting specific points that influence the endocrine system (more on that next!). This helps make your postpartum period more manageable and can help reduce symptoms like fatigue and irritability. 

Support for Thyroid Function and Overall Endocrine System

Ways Acupuncture Can Help With Postpartum Care