Rebecca Sprintz is the owner of Winnipeg’s Family Acupuncture Wellness Clinic, is a registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncturist and Prenatal Specialist. She has been in practice for over 8 years and helps women with all aspects of pregnancy from fertility treatments (she treats male-factor infertility too!) to post-partum care.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine practiced today. By placing single-use sterilized pins into specific points on the body, it can help regulate hormones, calm the nervous system, promote blood flow to vital organs, and decrease inflammation. It is virtually painless and very relaxing. “Most new patients come into my clinic petrified of needles”, says Sprintz. “I let them know that I treat babies every day in clinic and most don’t even fuss. In fact, manyof my adult patients fall asleep during their treatments”.
Acupuncture and Fertility
If a woman is having trouble conceiving, it is a Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncturist’s job to figure out why. Sprintz explains that emotional stress is most common barrier she sees preventing women from getting pregnant. “When this is the case, I can help flush cortisol (stress) from her body. When her body is under distress, it is not as willing to conceive because it is unsure if it’s strong enough to support both the woman and a baby.” Sprintz continues, “It does not mean that her body is weak or infertile. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It means that her body is brilliant and is patiently waiting for her to become healthier so she can confidently carry a baby full term. Once I help let go of her stress, then her body becomes ready and able for life’s next adventure.” Acupuncture can also assist in treating other causes of infertility including endometriosis, PCOS, painful or irregular menstruation, and recurrent miscarriages. It is a well-known adjunct to those undergoing IVF.
Acupuncture and Pregnancy
The benefits from acupuncture continue from the beginning stages of pregnancy right up until the very end. You may be wondering if acupuncture is safe during pregnancy. “Of course it is!” says Sprintz, “as long as it is done by a licensed and qualified TCM acupuncturist. I treat at least 80 pregnant women a week, and the relief that they receive from treatments are quite remarkable”. Did you know that acupuncture can relieve or eliminate morning sickness? That hormonal headaches can be treatable? That you don’t need to put up with hemorrhoids or varicose vein pain? Seeing an acupuncturist can be your one-stop shop for many pregnancy ailments.
Acupuncture and Labour
This seems to be what acupuncture is known for in Winnipeg – effectively turning breeched babies and preparing women for labour. “I generally start preparing women for labour at 38 weeks. During these treatments, we address any underlying fears, help ripen (soften) the cervix, help baby’s head engage into ideal positioning, and teach the body how to promote efficient contractions”, says Sprintz. Patients who get acupuncture throughout their pregnancies, especially in 3rd trimester report faster and less complicated deliveries.
Acupuncture and Beyond Pregnancy
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to help women recover from childbirth. “What I treat most for post-partum women is insufficient lactation”, Sprintz reports. Acupuncture is known to help clear blocked milk glands, can encourage the ‘let-down’ reflex, and can increase the body’s ability to produce more milk.“This can be such a stressful time for new moms. Some have only imagined themselves breastfeeding, and when the possibility of them needing to supplement becomes a reality, it can be devastating.” Sprintz continues, “Acupuncture treatments can make a remarkable difference”. It is also helpful at treating Post Partum Depression, Post Partum Anxiety and C-Section scar reduction and recovery.
Family Acupuncture Wellness Clinic in Winnipeg, Manitoba offers Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture by Rebecca Sprintz and Claire Turnbull. Acupuncture is used not only for fertility and pregnancy support, but for many other ailments such as allergies, pain, digestion and menopause. View their website, Facebook page, or contact them at 204-691-8808.
*photo courtesy of Shutterstock
*This post was sponsored by Family Acupuncture Wellness Clinic, however, all opinions are completely my own.