Acupuncture, Valerie Hobbs of BabyCenter explains, is safe during pregnancy. In fact, Valerie even notes that it can be helpful in reducing stress, morning sickness, pain, depression and other issues women face during pregnancy. If you're pregnant and going for acupuncture, though, make sure to let your acupuncturist know you're pregnant -- even if it's early in your pregnancy.
Tell Your Acupuncturist You're Pregnant
Anytime you go to an acupuncturist while pregnant, you should mention that you're carrying an unborn infant. This is especially important to note early in your pregnancy, though. If you go early in your first trimester, it may not be evident that you're pregnant. You should let them know, so they can adjust your treatment accordingly.
Your Treatment May Be Modified
Most acupuncturists modify treatments for pregnant women. Certain points become contraindicated during pregnancy and shouldn't be used during treatment. Even though you may only be carrying a small zygote, certain acupuncture points in your hands, shoulders, legs, ankles and back could affect your unborn infant. Some of these points might seem to be far from your belly, but acupuncture is complex. Assuming your acupuncturist is licensed, they'll know which points are safe to use and which ones should be avoided during pregnancy.
If you don't know whether your acupuncturist is licensed, ask them. According to the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), 43 states and the District of Columbia require acupuncturists to be licensed. Even if you live in a state that doesn't require licensure, though, you should seek out someone who has passed the NCCAOM's exam. Checking for licensure is an easy way to ensure that your acupuncturist will know how to adjust your treatment during your pregnancy.
You Might Want a Different Treatment
You may want your acupuncturist to make more changes to your treatment than they need to for the safety of your unborn infant. For instance, if you regularly see them for stress reduction but are struggling with morning sickness, they can adjust your treatment to address your pregnancy-specific symptoms.
If you regularly see an acupuncturist, you don't need to stop when you become pregnant. You do need to let your acupuncturist know you're pregnant, however, even if it's early and you aren't telling other people yet. They may need to make adjustments to your treatment. As long as you see a licensed acupuncturist like Forest Park Chiropractic & Acupuncture, they'll know what to do.
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