Homeopathy in pregnancy and labour
Pregnancy is an important time for the body and is greatly assisted and supported by homeopathic treatment which is safe for both mother and baby.
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The applications of homeopathy during pregnancy, labour and in the postpartum period are numerous. In pregnancy, homeopathy can help with symptoms such as morning sickness, constipation and more complicated problems such as high blood pressure or symphysis pubis dysfunction. It is also very important in cases where there is a tendency to repeated miscarriages. During labour, it can help with the dilation of the cervix, the strength and pain of contractions, also with exhaustion and any overwhelming emotions. It provides significant aid in the prevention of postpartum haemorrhage and infection.
Homeopathic medicines are safe and without side effects for both mother and baby and for this reason are well suited for women during this time. The ideal time for you to start homeopathic treatment with a professional homeopath is actually prior to conception in order to obtain optimum health during your pregnancy and beyond.
The homeopathic medicines which you will find detailed further below are safe and effective for use during and after labour.
You will not, however, be in a position to prescribe for yourself during labour. Your homeopath, midwife or partner should be designated to undertake this responsibility as they will be in a better position to observe.
A more comprehensive birthing kit is available on request, however, because this is beyond the knowledge of an inexperienced prescriber, it is recommended that you visit your homeopath/attend a seminar in order to have a thorough understanding of how to use it.
Ideally you should visit your homeopath with your midwife or birthing partner a month before the birth so that the person can have time to feel confident about using the kit.
I am happy to undertake individual consultations with pregnant women and their birthing partners on request, please contact me by e-mail: [email protected] or 6942 909559
(if I am unable to answer at the time please leave a message).
Please note if you are under the care of a homeopath already you should not self prescribe but should refer back to your prescribing practitioner.
Bach Flower Rescue Remedy is also recommended to be used as often as required.
There are many homeopathic pharmacies. The most highly recommended is Korres which is based at Eratosthenous and Ivikou 8, 116 35 Pangrati, Tel: 210 722 2774
However pharmacies in other areas also stock their remedies and so you can either inquire at your local pharmacy or at the number above.
Other pharmacies are available, if you use another it is advisable that you go on recommendation from a friend or other who uses them regularly and can vouch for their efficacy.
Eight homeopathic medicines and their indications for use during labour
ARNICA
After birth or especially Caesarean Arnica will help the healing and ease pain and discomfort. It is a major remedy for postoperative healing.
As a guide one dose three times a day for up to three days should provide much relief, it can be repeated much more frequently if necessary, i.e. every two hours. If however you are still in some discomfort consider Bellis Perennis or Staphysagria below.
Remember Arnica will very much benefit your baby if the birth has been traumatic or forceps were used.
BELLIS PERENNIS
This remedy will further help cases where there is any residual bruising or discomfort remaining after Arnica. It is indicated for abdominal wounds and deep trauma and will complement the initial action of Arnica.
HYPERICUM
This remedy is indicated for injury to the coccyx during labour or delivery and for lacerations which affect parts rich in nerves, including surgery to the genital area. Helpful after episiotomy or a natural tear (compare to Staphysagria) and also for any residual effects following an epidural.
Episiotomy or laceration (in tincture form)
A tincture of hypericum mixed with calendula (Hypercal) can be purchased from a homeopathic pharmacy and used externally. Mix 10 drops in a tablespoon of sterile or cooled boiled water and apply to perineum on a compress. Keep in contact for up to an hour and repeat several times until relief is obtained.
STAPHYSAGRIA
This remedy is also indicated following caesarean, or episiotomy with pain in the incision, great sensitivity and redness of the wound. This is particularly helpful for example if the woman has had an unexpected caesarean which was not of her choosing and feels somewhat violated by the procedure. Consider also Arnica, Bellis Perennis (caesarean) or Hypericum (episiotomy) on their own individual merits.
Eutokia - Association for the Promotion of Natural Childbirth
Filias 50, Maroussi, Athens 151 23 Website: www.eutokia.gr
Tel: 210 6844 201 E-mail:[email protected]
Natural Childbirth Centre
The birth centre resides in the Private Maternity Clinic “Niki”
122 Idomeneos str, Illion 131 23
Tel: 210 261 6155
Midwife in charge of the maternity clinic is Elda Lati Tel: 69466 22891
Evangelia Philippaki
GP, attends home births.
Tel: 210 804 2751
Birth Voice
Informal and relaxed meetings held by mothers, midwives, doctors, doulas and La Leche League group leaders whose aim is to empower mothers to be to attain the birth experience they want.
You are welcome to attend at any stage in your pregnancy.
Contact: Laura 210 623 2527 or [email protected]
Demetra 210 808 2656 or [email protected]
Maria Andreoulaki
Doula and reflexologist
Tel: 210 68 59 336
e-mail: [email protected]
La Leche League Greece
Breastfeeding support groups and expert advice from mothers experienced and trained in the art of breastfeeding. It is recommended that you attend prior to your birth.
LLL Hotline: 210 600 3249
Website: www.llli.org
Miranda Castro’s Homeopathic Guides - Mother and Baby
Pregnancy, birth and your baby’s first years
Pan Books
Comments: Wonderful and easy to use self help guide with many personal tips and advice.
A must for all mothers to be!
Homeopathy Medicines for Pregnancy and Childbirth
Moskowitz
North Atlantic Books
Comments: This is a book that details more complex cases in which a homeopath would be consulted to prescribe. It is not intended as a self help guide but will give you plenty of rich and interesting examples of the uses of homeopathy during pregnancy and childbirth.
Birth Reborn What Childbirth Should Be
Michel Odent
Souvenir Press
Comments: This book has recently been revised. Michel Odent is a pioneer of natural childbirth and shares with you his insights and those of his staff of the Pithiviers Maternity Unit in France. It contains personal stories and graphic images which serve to highlight the very positive experiences of women who are supported and empowered to have a natural birth. Another must for all mothers to be!
Marie Woodward