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Is it safe and will it affect my baby?

Will it hurt and how will I feel after treatment?

What if I can’t lie comfortably on a treatment couch?

Do I need to tell my midwife or GP I’m having acupuncture during my pregnancy?

How many treatments will I need?

What should I wear?

What does the research say?

Is it safe and will it affect my baby?

All MamaNu practitioners are members of the British Acupuncture Council and observe their strict code of practice. All needles used are single use in sterile packages. Acupuncture does not harm the baby in any way. If you feel your baby move during a treatment it will probably be a response to your body naturally relaxing and no cause for alarm.

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Will it hurt and how will I feel after treatment?
The needles used are incredibly fine, very unlike the needles used for injections, and are not painful. You may experience a dull ache, followed by a pleasant tingling sensation.

Patients often report a feeling of relaxation or invigoration during and after a treatment. After a treatment we advise all our patients to relax for a few minutes rather than rush off. We offer a comfortable waiting area where magazines and refreshments are available.

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What if I can’t lie comfortably on a treatment couch?

If lying down is not comfortable we can treat you sitting on a chair. Whatever position we will endeavour to make you comfortable with plenty of pillows and support.

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Do I need to tell my midwife or GP I’m having acupuncture during my pregnancy?  

We encourage open communication between medical professions so you can receive the best possible care from all available sources. We will give you a letter which you can give to your midwife or GP during your routine antenatal check up, informing them of your treatment with MamaNu.

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How many treatments will I need?

Everyone responds differently to treatment, but it is possible you will experience improvements after the first treatment. You may even see dramatic changes after just two or three sessions. Acupuncture may be needed throughout your pregnancy or you may simply require it in the first few weeks to overcome nausea and tiredness. Pre birth acupuncture can be started at 34 weeks to help your uterus prepare for birth and help reduce the length of labour. 

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What should I wear?

You should wear comfortable and loose clothing that will allow access to your arms and legs for treatment. Most treatments will be conducted with you dressed apart from shoes and socks. If you are suffering with symphasis pubis disorder or back and hip pain we may have to access these areas. In cases where we do have to remove clothing, please be assured that your modesty will be protected at all times.  

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What does the research say?

More research is being done all the time into the effectiveness of acupuncture and specifically in antenatal treatment. Here are a few of the most reputable studies and reports.

Morning Sickness BBC news report NHS Direct

British Medical Journal Report on effectiveness in labour

Acupuncture and depression during pregnancy

Relief of lower back pain and pelvic pain during pregnancy using acupuncture

British Medical Journal Report on use with pelvic pain

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Mama Nu

Antenatal Acupuncture

 Hertfordshire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire

Rickmansworth and St Albans

07970 118626