Whether you’re pregnant with your first or fifth child, the later stages of pregnancy can be a very challenging time. Having worked closely as an acupuncturist with an extraordinary group of midwives, and having 2 of my own children, I can tell you first hand that the last part of pregnancy can be quite overwhelming. However, there are ways that you can take back a bit of control and ease those very common concerns that may arise.

Acupuncture, chiropractic care, craniosacral therapy, and reflexology are effective and have multiple benefits in preparing the body for labour and delivery, and also aid in promoting post-partum recovery.

1. Acupuncture

Highly recommended by midwives and prenatal doctors, acupuncture is well known to aid mom’s-to-be in preparing for labour and delivery. By the 36 week mark and onwards, weekly or bi-weekly visits to your acupuncturist can be very beneficial. Acupuncture aids to increase energy levels, calm any stress and anxiety, and addresses any physical discomforts. Your experienced acupuncturist will begin preparing the body to give birth by using points that relax the pelvic floor to help bring baby down and points that are known to support and nurture the uterus. As the big due date approaches, acupuncture is reputed for its ability to get the birthing process underway, naturally. Your acupuncturist will use points that are used to induce contractions, increase birthing hormones, ripen the cervix, and ensure the body is relaxed and stress free. Acupuncture can also aid to address issues such as breech or posterior presentations.

2. Cranio Sacral Therapy (CST)

CST is one of the most unique modalities that can offer some amazing benefits in preparing the body for labor and delivery. By releasing restrictions in the pelvis, this eases discomforts and tension of the back and hips, optimizing the birthing process. Promoting and restoring balance to the pelvic floor and by addressing any other restrictions in the whole body enables CST to effectively assist women along their journey to motherhood. CST can be safely used throughout pregnancy and is also shown to touch upon the cranio system of the baby in utero, offering comfort and security to the baby and promotes bonding with mom.

3. Chiropractic Care

There are many techniques your chiropractor uses throughout pregnancy to address the structural changes of growing a baby. A chiropractor certified in the Webster technique can also prepare the pelvic floor to facilitate the birthing process and effectively ensure good position of the baby.

4. Reflexology

Many of us are familiar with images of the reflexology charts but have yet to experience a visit with a qualified reflexologist. By stimulating certain points on the feet, ankles and lower legs using varying degrees of manual pressure, this can evoke responses in other areas of the body. During the gestation period, there are specific areas known to help relax the pelvic floor, stimulate the release of hormones, and as the end of pregnancy nears, there are points that are known to stimulate uterine contractions.