Pregnancy is a very special time and when you’re pregnant you deserve special attention whether it’s for pain management or simply a pampering session.

Keep reading to find out how CARM Therapies can help with massage and acupuncture treatments specifically tailored to pregnant women, or contact us today to speak to our professional massage and acupuncture practitioners.



ACUPUNCTURE FOR PREGNANCY

Acupuncture is probably the best-known branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In a tradition dating back over 3000 years acupuncture has been used to assist with foetal and maternal health. We aim to continue this tradition and help you to actively manage your pregnancy in a safe, effective way that lets you choose your level of intervention.


Through acupuncture we seek to enhance your wellbeing as you go through the stages of pregnancy. If you are interested in managing your pregnancy and labour in a natural way or looking for ways to supplement the care you receive from your doctor or midwife, acupuncture can be a wonderful route to take. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, stressed or in pain, TCM may help with a range of these symptoms.


Acupuncture is generally considered safe and treatment can complement the care you receive from your midwife or doctor.




Nausea, vomiting, and discomfort


Many pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting (morning sickness), especially in the first trimester. It’s quite common to also experience muscular aches, back pain, sciatic pain and pubic pain. Acupuncture is a great way to take some time for yourself and can offer some relief from these pregnancy related symptoms.


Call our centre today to discuss your treatment options or read on for more information on specific pregnancy issues.


Hypertension (high blood pressure)


High blood pressure can be a side effect of pregnancy. Studies have shown that Acupuncture can be used as a treatment for high blood pressure - especially if started when high blood pressure is first discovered.



Call our centre today to discuss your treatment options.


Labour Preparation


From 32 weeks pregnant there are many things you do to start preparing your pelvis and cervix for labour – if you haven’t had this conversation with your midwife yet then now is the time. Acupuncture and massage are both popular options at this stage of pregnancy to help you feel prepared for the big event.



Pain relief during Labour


Acupuncture and acupressure can be part of your toolkit if you are hoping to experience a drug-free labour. CARM Therapies runs ‘Acupressure for pregnancy’ workshops, where we teach you and your birth partner how to use acupressure for pain relief during labour. These friendly and informative sessions are offered both in small groups and as one-on-one sessions.

Our workshops are a fun and easy hands-on experience that support the relationship between the birth mother and her partner. Find out more below.



To book a workshop or discuss treatment options call our office today.


Kingsley Avery - Director and Principal Acupuncturist at CARM Therapies in Higgins holds a Health Science degree from UTS in Traditional Chinese Medicine. He has an active interest, and extensive post graduate training, in treating Pregnancy and childbirth issues as well as in Chronic pain management. Kingsley is a registered acupuncturist with AHPRA.





PREGNANCY MASSAGE

At CARM Therapies, we cater for massage therapy during all stages of pregnancy, recognising that there are specific needs for treating a pregnant client. Massage Therapy during pregnancy is very safe, beneficial and enjoyable, as long as certain guidelines are followed.


It is very important for you to tell your therapist if you are pregnant, might be pregnant or are trying to get pregnant. When you (confidentially) inform your therapist of your current state, they can take extra steps to ensure you receive the best possible care during all stages of your pregnancy journey.


Extra precautions for therapists to take into account include:

  • Use of non-scented oil
  • No abdominal or lower back treatment during the first trimester
  • Avoidance of concentrated massage around certain acupressure points
  • Seated or side lying options for your comfort
  • Clearance from GP may be required if complicated conditions are present

Common pregnancy related complaints that Massage Therapy may help relieve include:

  • Calf Cramping
  • Lower Back pain
  • Headaches
  • Neck and shoulder tension
  • Fatigue
  • General aches and pains

Call us to book your pregnancy massage today.



ACUPRESSURE FOR LABOUR WORKSHOPS

CARM Therapies runs relaxed group classes for pregnant women and their birth partners. These practical hands-on acupressure session teach relaxation and pain relief techniques for use during pregnancy and childbirth. Our techniques are easy to learn, partner inclusive and empowering!


About the class:


In our small group workshop (4-5 couples) you and your birth partner will learn about acupressure, including:


• background information about acupressure
• how and when to use acupressure for pain relief (before, during and after birth), and
• how pressure points can assist with common pregnancy issues like nausea

You will learn techniques to help promote a natural and efficient labour, as well as spending important time together practicing in this hands on workshop.

These classes are designed to promote partner involvement and connection and can help to make the birthing process a shared experience.



We’ll apply our many years of one-on-one sessions teaching acupressure to women and their birth support partner, which led us to develop this 1.5 hour hands-on workshop.

About acupressure


Acupressure is based on the same principles as acupuncture. It is safe, non-invasive (no needles) and easy to learn.
Acupressure during pregnancy promotes partner involvement and will give your partner the tools to be an active part of the pregnancy and birth process.


Contact us to book your spot in a small group class, or to book your one on one session!