Acupuncture for Conception, Pregnancy, Birth & Postpartum
“Traditional Chinese Medicine is the oldest, continuously practiced system of medicine in the world today. Modern research has proved the efficacy of Acupuncture and Herbal medicine for pain, emotional imbalance and many illnesses.”
The practice of acupuncture and moxibustion is based on the theory of meridians. According to this theory, chi (vital energy) and blood circulate in the body through a system of channels called meridians, connecting internal organs with external organs or tissues. By stimulating certain points of the body surface reached by meridians through needling or moxibustion, the flow of chi and blood can be regulated and diseases are thus treated. These stimulation points are called acupuncture points, or acupoints.
Acupuncture is an integral part of the rapid growth of complementary medicine in the United States. It has had at least 2,000 years of documented use and continual development in the Far East. Although often described as a means of pain relief, it in fact can treat people with a wide range of illnesses. Its focus is on supporting the natural processes of the body mind in its movement towards greater health, and the treatment of specific symptomatic disease. The health of the body is dependent on the life force energy –known as Chi or Prana- moving in a smooth and balanced way through a series of energetic channels (meridians). These energy channels are treated with very fine needles to unblock and stimulate the flow of energy. This activation enhances the function of the organs, vitalizing our muscular, immune, digestive, metabolic and hormonal systems.
Acupuncture is truly a holistic approach to developing and maintaining life long quality of health.
During pregnancy, acupuncture can help:
Relieve morning sickness, nausea and vomiting
Alleviate back pain.
Prevent miscarriage.
Correct a breech presentation.
Induce labor (when the time is right).
Help with postpartum pain and depression.
Regulate lactation.
Decrease the chances of miscarriage and increase the rate of live birth.
Heartburn
Edema, swelling
Colds, flus & coughs
Diarrhea
Urinary Tract Infection
Heart Palpitations
Gestational Diabetes
conditions commonly treated:
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a surprisingly complex system of medicine and can have positive effects in the treatment of virtually any disorder. To name a few, Traditional Chinese Medicine can be effective in treating . . .
musculo-skeletal disorders
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Back pain, upper/lower
• Sciatic pain
• Pain and numbness of the extremities
• Arthritis/joint pain
• Tennis elbow/Golfer's elbow
• Pre/post surgical conditions
• Sports injuries
• Traumatic injuries
• Chronic intractable pain
neurological disorders
• Headache • Migraine • Vertigo • Bells palsy
• Trigeminal neuralgia
gastrointestinal disorders
• Gastritis • Colitis • IBS/IBD/Crohns disease
• Constipation/Diarrhea • Gas/Bloating/Distention
• Weight loss/Weight gain
ob/gyn (from the perspective of Oriental Medicine)
• Fertility/IVF support
• Dysfunctional Menstruation
o Irregular Menstruation/Ovulation
o Absent or painful menstruation
o Endometriosis o PMS
• Fibroids/Cysts
• Pre/Peri/Post-menopausal conditions
mind + spirit
• Stress
• Restless Sleep
• Anxiety/Depression
• Lack of Mental Focus
• Fatigue
• Emotional Trauma
• Life Transitions
• Personal Growth Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Johanna Perez Acupuncture Physician
Ask Johanna:
What does an acupuncture treatment feel like?
Most women are surprised and relieved to learn that acupuncture needles are very thin—unlike hypodermic needles which are thick and hollow. Acupuncturists can attain a high level of skill in gently placing these tiny needles and often the insertion is barely perceptible. The needles are usually inserted only several millimeters in depth—also very unlike hypodermic injections. As such, patients generally do not feel the painful piercing or pricking sensation typically associated with an injection, blood sample, or other medical needle procedure. We use only disposable needles.
How long does an acupuncture visit take?
Your first treatment is approximately 1.5 hours and involves an initial consultation in which a diagnosis is made and we determine which TCM treatments are right for you. After the initial consultation, we generally move right into a first treatment during the same visit. Follow-up visits consist of a much shorter intake/diagnosis period before treatment, and on average last 30 to 45 minutes.
Are Needles sterile and safe?
Yes, it is required that acupuncture physicians follow strict sterilization procedures. More importantly, needles today are used once and then disposed accordingly. We use only disposable needles.
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is the burning of a Chinese herb, ai ye, also know as mugwort. The herb is burned and a concentrated heat is applied to acupoints.. The heat penetrates the superficial layers of the skin and has a very strong tonifying effect. The heat increases circulation of both qi and blood. It’s a great adjunct to many treatments as it is noninvasive. In fact, moxa can be a treatment for elderly patients that cannot be needled due to their weak constitution. There are many forms of moxa, all produce a calming aroma.
How should I prepare for my Acupuncture treatment?
Patients should eat before coming for an acupuncture treatment and should wear comfortable clothes. You should be prepared to refrain from rigorous exercise for at least two hours before and after treatment.
How do you use Traditional Chinese Medicine to diagnose my health problem?
We will ask a variety of questions regarding your specific complaint and general health. We will use Traditional Chinese diagnostic methods including radial pulse reading and tongue diagnosis. The initial consultation includes a standard health history not unlike at a medical doctor’s office. You will need to fill out a few forms that I provide you. If you wish, you may download the forms and fill them out at home before you come in. Whatever first treatment is appropriate will be done immediately following the initial consultation.
What does the Acupuncture or Chinese Medicine treatment involve?
During acupuncture, full attention will be given to help you relax and receive the most value from the treatment. After each needle is inserted, you may feel nothing, or sometimes a vague numbness, heaviness, or slight tingling. However, the treatment is effective whether these feelings are sensed or not. The needles will be left in for 20-30 minutes while you relax with soothing music in a warm room. After the treatment, you may experience a relaxing euphoric feeling. Tell visitors about your company's history, including location, ownership, personal experiences, and other information that will help people remember you. Keep this information brief but informative.