Prenatal, Trimester & Acupuncture Supports

A Brief Introductory Guide

Understanding Prenatal & Trimester Support Challenges and the Benefits of Acupuncture

Pregnancy is a transformative journey, and while it is often a joyful and exciting experience, it can also present a variety of physical and emotional challenges for the expecting mother. Each trimester brings unique changes and discomforts as the body adapts to accommodate the growing baby. Women often experience symptoms such as morning sickness, fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, aches, and emotional imbalances. These symptoms can vary greatly in severity and can impact overall well-being. Prenatal care that addresses both physical and emotional health is essential for promoting a healthy pregnancy and a positive experience. Acupuncture, a holistic therapy rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a safe and effective way to support women through all stages of pregnancy by alleviating common symptoms, promoting relaxation, and enhancing overall vitality.

The Wellspring Integrative Approach

Women’s Health during all stages of conception, pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery is our specialty here at Wellspring Health.

It takes a village to raise a child, but before that, it takes a team to make a baby. You can’t do it alone and we at Wellspring Health are privileged to be a member of your team. Wellspring Health uses Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine) and Conventional medicine in an integrative approach. This combination can enhance treatment outcomes, manage the side effects of conventional treatments (like chemotherapy), and provide additional support for chronic or complex conditions. We love science and we love working with conventional medical Doctors. This approach combines the strengths of both systems, offering a broader range of treatment options and emphasizing the prevention of disease as well as the treatment of existing conditions.

Reproductive Endocrinologists & Gynecologist Support During Fertility & Pregnancy: We enjoy collaborating with physicians and have extensive experience working with a large network of specialists in Manhattan. We can provide recommendations and referrals for every stage of the fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey.

Doula Support: We frequently work with doulas throughout all stages of pregnancy and delivery, providing integrated care and support to enhance the birthing experience.

Below is a comprehensive introductory guide to how Wellspring & TCM can support you throughout every stage of your journey. Feel free to jump to any specific section that best suits your needs.

Click to jump to section:

Challenges Associated with Prenatal Care During Each Trimester

  1. First Trimester: Nausea, Fatigue, and Hormonal Changes
    The first trimester is often marked by significant hormonal shifts as the body begins to support the pregnancy. Many women experience morning sickness, which can include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. This is caused by elevated levels of hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen. Additionally, fatigue and low energy are common due to increased metabolic demands and changes in blood volume. Emotional fluctuations, such as anxiety or mood swings, are also frequent as the mother adjusts to the reality of pregnancy.

  2. Second Trimester: Physical Discomfort and Digestive Issues
    During the second trimester, many women feel a sense of relief as morning sickness typically subsides and energy levels stabilize. However, physical discomforts such as back pain, pelvic pain, and round ligament pain may emerge as the baby grows and the body’s center of gravity shifts. Digestive issues, including heartburn, constipation, and bloating, can also become more prominent due to the pressure of the expanding uterus on the digestive organs.

  3. Third Trimester: Swelling, Sleep Disturbances, and Emotional Preparation
    The third trimester is often characterized by increasing physical strain as the baby reaches its final stages of development. Many women experience swelling in the legs and feet, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping due to discomfort or frequent urination. Emotional preparation for labor, delivery, and the impending role of motherhood can also cause heightened levels of stress and anxiety, making it challenging to remain calm and rested.

  4. Managing Emotional Well-Being Throughout Pregnancy
    Emotional well-being is a crucial component of a healthy pregnancy. Many women experience increased anxiety or emotional vulnerability due to hormonal changes, physical discomforts, and the anticipation of becoming a parent. Managing these emotions is vital for both the mother’s and baby’s health, as high levels of stress can negatively impact fetal development and lead to complications.

From Our Clients

“Kirsten is a true professional. I worked with her through both of my pregnancies. With my first pregnancy in 2020/21I started working with her when my son was breech. While I wound up with an ECV it was successful and I do think the work with Kirsten helped prime that. She also paid a house visit during my first stalled labor and successfully kick-started my active labor (after 40 long hours stalled). I came back to Kirsten in 2022 when we were starting to think about getting pregnant again. My cycles were very short and my AMH levels were extremely low.  Kirsten was an absolute professional and tempered my expectations but those expectations were exceeded when my cycle returned to normal in a matter of months and my AMH levels increased which honestly doesn't even seem possible as those indicate egg reserves- but it happened. I continued to work with her through my pregnancy in my first and third trimesters and had a smooth delivery for my second. Aside from being extremely technically skilled, Kirsten has the perfect energy for what she does. She creates a calm and open environment and it was truly a safe space for me emotionally through it all. I was able to really settle into the space which I truly think helped my body accept the benefits of the treatment. So, needless to say, I couldn't recommend her more.”

- Nina E. 

“I worked with Kirsten while I was pregnant and postpartum. Acupuncture was my sanctuary and Kirsten made me feel so comfortable. I had tons of aches and pains in my back/legs and after my sessions I felt such relief! Kirsten was with me right before I went into labor and was communicating with me throughout. She truly cares!”

-Danielle G.

“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Kirsten and her practice. I have gone to her on and off for the past 6 years and she is incredibly knowledgeable and has such a warm, calming bedside manner. She was such a crucial comfort to me during my pregnancy. She is wonderful at really narrowing in on the best possible treatment plan with the best outcomes and uses both acupuncture and herbal treatments. After every one of our sessions, I left with such a calming, focused energy. I wholeheartedly recommend her.”

 - Kate B

Benefits of Acupuncture for Prenatal & Trimester Support

Acupuncture is a safe, natural, and non-invasive therapy that can support women through every stage of pregnancy by addressing both physical and emotional concerns. It involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow, promote healing, and alleviate discomfort. Here are some of the key benefits of acupuncture for prenatal and trimester support:

  1. Alleviates Morning Sickness and Nausea:
    Acupuncture is highly effective in reducing the severity and frequency of morning sickness during the first trimester. By targeting points associated with the stomach and spleen, acupuncture helps regulate digestion, calm the stomach, and alleviate nausea and vomiting. This can help women maintain better nutritional intake, supporting both their health and the development of the baby.

  2. Boosts Energy and Reduces Fatigue:
    Acupuncture supports the body’s energy production by balancing Qi (vital energy) and improving circulation. It can help combat first trimester fatigue and promote better energy levels throughout pregnancy, allowing women to feel more vibrant and less drained as they navigate the demands of their changing bodies.

  3. Reduces Pain and Discomfort:
    As the pregnancy progresses, many women experience musculoskeletal pain, such as back pain, pelvic pain, or sciatica. Acupuncture helps release muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation, providing relief from these common discomforts. It can also alleviate round ligament pain and reduce the strain on the lower back and hips, making daily activities more comfortable.

  4. Improves Digestion and Reduces Heartburn:
    Digestive issues, such as constipation, bloating, and heartburn, are common during pregnancy. Acupuncture helps regulate digestive function by stimulating points that support the spleen and stomach, reducing discomfort and improving nutrient absorption. This can lead to a more comfortable pregnancy and better nourishment for both mother and baby.

  5. Promotes Better Sleep and Reduces Stress:
    Acupuncture is known for its calming effects on the nervous system. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia by balancing hormones and promoting relaxation. Regular acupuncture sessions can improve sleep quality and help women manage emotional fluctuations, ensuring that they are well-rested and emotionally balanced throughout pregnancy.

  6. Supports Overall Well-Being and Prepares the Body for Labor:
    Acupuncture enhances overall health by promoting optimal organ function, regulating hormones, and supporting immune function. It helps maintain a healthy balance throughout pregnancy, preparing the body for labor and delivery. Acupuncture can also be used in the final weeks of pregnancy to help the body prepare for labor by encouraging cervical ripening and optimal fetal positioning.

Fertility, Pregnancy & Postpartum We Treat With TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic and individualized approach to supporting women’s health through all stages of fertility, pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum recovery. By addressing imbalances in the body and promoting harmony between the physical and emotional aspects of health, TCM can enhance reproductive health, support a healthy pregnancy, and aid in postpartum healing. With its long history and integrative methods, TCM continues to be a valuable option for women seeking a natural and comprehensive approach to wellness and maternal care.

  • Female Infertility: Improving ovarian function and egg quality, balancing hormones, supporting Uterine Health, blood flow, nervous system, emotional support, and stress management.

  • Stress Management, Nervous System Supports & Pregnancy: Regulate stress response, stimulate endorphins, balance cortisol, sleep, muscle tension, pain relief, emotional support, a place to relax, let go and get some care.

  • IVF/IUI: Support pre- and post-embryo transfer, reducing IVF-related stress and anxiety, and managing hormonal fluctuations during IUI/IVF.

  • Egg Freezing: Optimizing ovarian reserve, preparing the body for egg retrieval, managing side effects of hormonal stimulation, and post-egg retrieval recovery.

  • Pain & Pregnancy: Relieving back pain, pelvic pain, sciatic and joint pain.

  • Labor Prep, Delivery & Induction: Promote cervical ripening and softening, supporting natural and assisted labor induction, pain relief, and breech babies.

  • Prenatal & Trimester Support: Nausea and fatigue, fetal development support, breech presentation and positioning, insomnia and stress.

  • Post Partaum: Emotional supports balancing hormones, stress response, lactation support, activating parasympathetic nervous system to encourage relaxation.

  • Lactation: Enhancing milk supply and flow, addressing blocked milk ducts and mastitis, balancing hormones, reducing stress, and improving milk quality.

  • Recurrent Miscarriage: Strengthening uterine health, immunological factors, managing stress and anxiety.

  • Male Infertility: Improving sperm quality and motility, varicocele, hormone, and libido imbalance.

Parting Thoughts:

Acupuncture offers a natural, safe, and effective way to support women throughout all stages of pregnancy. Whether alleviating morning sickness, reducing pain and discomfort, or promoting emotional balance, acupuncture provides holistic prenatal care that addresses the unique challenges of each trimester. By integrating acupuncture into a prenatal care plan, women can enhance their physical and emotional well-being, ensuring a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy experience.

Resources & Links to Learn More

Acupuncture has been studied for its potential benefits during pregnancy, particularly in managing various pregnancy-related symptoms. Here are five clinical studies highlighting its positive effects:

  1. Acupuncture for Pelvic and Low-Back Pain in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review: This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating pelvic and low-back pain during pregnancy. The findings suggested that acupuncture significantly reduced pain intensity and improved functional status in pregnant women.  AJOG

  2. The Safety of Acupuncture during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review: This review assessed the safety of acupuncture when used during pregnancy. The analysis concluded that acupuncture is generally safe for pregnant women, with minimal adverse effects reported, supporting its use for managing pregnancy-related symptoms.  SAGE Journals

  3. Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture in Treatment of Pregnancy-Related Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: This study systematically evaluated the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for treating various pregnancy-related symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and pain. The results indicated that acupuncture is more effective than other treatments or pharmacotherapy alone in managing pregnancy-related discomforts.  Europe PMC

  4. Understanding the Effect of Acupuncture on Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review: This systematic review explored the impact of acupuncture on nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. The findings suggested that acupuncture effectively alleviates these symptoms, providing a non-pharmacological option for pregnant women.  BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies

  5. The Role of Acupuncture in the Present Approach to Labor Induction: A Systematic Review: This review examined the use of acupuncture for labor induction. The analysis indicated that acupuncture might increase the spontaneous labor rate and reduce the need for medical induction methods, offering a complementary approach to labor management.  AJOG

These studies suggest that acupuncture may offer benefits in managing various pregnancy-related symptoms, including pain, nausea, and labor induction, with a favorable safety profile.