Postpartum Support

 
 

mother warming > Postpartum depression or dysphoria

 

Postpartum ‘Mother Warming’

Condition: Mother Warming is a postpartum treatment to help a woman recover from childbirth. Mother Warming is synonymous with self-care; this is a great way to relax, heal and rejuvenate after the riggers of childbirth. 

TCM Approach: This treatment is rooted in TCM. It is based on the concept that women lose large quantities of both Qi and Blood after giving birth and that it must be replenished in order to prevent disease and illness down the road. 


Proposed Treatment: By using moxibustion to warm particular acupuncture points can stimulate Blood production and circulation. Acupuncture can be used to redirect, build and move Qi, where necessary. Blood takes time to rebuild, therefore Mother Warming can be done frequently; multiple 45 minute follow-up treatments would be ideal.

 

Postpartum Dysphoria or Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Condition: Postpartum Dysphoria or Postpartum Depression is a complex mix of chemical, psychological and social changes that occur after childbirth. This can result in mood swings, loss of pleasure, feelings of hopelessness and worrying about being unable to bond with the baby.

TCM Approach: In TCM, the cause of Postpartum Depression or Dysphoria is rooted in its concept of Blood. Blood is a nourishing substance that keeps us alive and healthy. It is the loss of Blood during childbirth that is the culprit. When we lack adequate amounts of good-quality Blood this can affect our mental state. Our Mind or Consciousness is rooted in Blood, and without it we find ourselves ungrounded. 


Proposed Treatment: When childbirth causes Blood Deficiency, it must be built back.This can be done by combining nutrition with acupuncture. 45 minute or a longer 60 minute acupuncture treatments done weekly along with eating foods that replenish Blood. It takes time to build back blood; this is an ongoing treatment approach as every woman is different. Please note, TCM should not be used to replace traditional talk therapy.