Pericardium 6 and Acupuncture for Fertility/Pregnancy

Pericardium 6 (PC-6) is an incredibly useful point on the inside of the wrist and is known as the anti-nausea point. Whether the nausea is caused by morning sickness, indigestion or motion sickness, PC-6 is your point! This point is also a command point of the chest, which means it is great at treating palpitations, chest tightness and acid reflux. It is also used in combination with other points in most anxiety treatments. This acu point is found on the inside of the wrist, two thumb breadths below the wrist line and between the two tendons. Many people may have seen “anti-nausea” wristbands which actually just use acupressure on PC-6 to resolve symptoms!

How can acupuncture help with fertility?

Acupuncture is an excellent tool for couples who are trying to conceive (TTC). Whether you are actively TTC or are just starting the journey and want to learn more about your cycle, your acupuncturist can help. Acupuncture improves fertility by regulating the menstrual cycle/hormones, increasing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, promoting ovulation, and supporting a healthy luteal phase for successful implantation. It also works to increase libido, reduce stress and anxiety surrounding the TTC process, and can increase sperm count and motility.

Acupuncture can support patients who are trying to conceive naturally, as well as those going through the IUI or IVF process. A recent study found that when used in conjunction with Western fertility treatments, acupuncture increases conception rates by 26% (Tel Aviv University, 2016).

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

The short answer is YES! Acupuncture is completely safe for the entire duration of pregnancy. However it is important you inform your practitioner if you are pregnant as they will need to tailor the treatment to suit your needs. Acupuncture is extremely beneficial in treating any symptoms you may experience during pregnancy. Most women find it especially helpful during the first trimester when symptoms of fatigue, nausea and vomiting tend to be most severe. This is where the point Pericardium 6 is most useful.

As pregnancy progresses, your acupuncturist will be able to address any symptoms that may arise such as insomnia, body pain, and acid reflux. If the baby is breech presentation, your acupuncturist can utilize a technique called moxabustion to turn the baby. At around 36 weeks, you can begin having labour prep treatments which aim to ripen the uterus and prepare the body for delivery. At 38 weeks gestation you can start doing labour induction treatments which promote a downward movement in the body and can help induce labour. Even after delivery acupuncture can help the body to recover more quickly, and can increase milk supply or resolve mastitis.

Whatever stage of conception or pregnancy you are at, your acupuncturist will be able to create a customized plan to support your needs.

For more information on how acupuncture can help you or to schedule an initial consult contact us at info@ocwc.ca or 780-455-2112