"During the first year of my daughter's life I had three incidents with very painful mastitis. I had to take antibiotics to clear it up each time only to have it reoccur within a couple of months. It made nursing uncomfortable and difficult. When my son was born a few months later, I began to have symptoms of mastitis while attempting to tandem nurse. I had Rachel do acupuncture with me and the symptoms disappeared. I did not have to take antibiotics again and was able to nurse both my children longer than I expected. This really increased my confidence and joy as a mother! I am really thankful for Rachel and acupuncture! -SY"

Postpartum and Breastfeeding Support

Below are conditions can arise in pregnancy which are effectively treated with acupuncture.

Postpartum support

Baby with Flowers ©iStockphoto.com/grinerswife

Your bundle of joy has finally arrived and you feel delighted and. . . . depressed. This is not uncommon, and fortunately, treatable. The rapid hormonal changes that accompany childbirth can make you feel terrible. I can help you get over the baby blues with acupuncture and herbal supplements that are safe for your baby during breastfeeding and for you postpartum. If your depression is not treatable with Chinese medicine, I will refer you to your MD.

Mastitis

Mastitis, or inflammation of the breast, is a painful condition which comes on rapidly. The breast becomes red, hot and painful, and if severe, the nursing mother feels like she has the flu with fever and body aches. Often, she has to resort to antibiotics to treat the condition. If a woman comes in for treatment at the first sign of mastitis, acupuncture is very effective in relieving the condition, and antibiotics can be avoided. Some women have recurrent mastitis, and acupuncture can relieve the underlying condition which causes it.

Low milk supply

Acupuncture can increase milk supply within a day. It stimulates your body's natural milk-producing ability. In addition to acupuncture, I recommend More Milk Plus to really get your supply up. I carry this product, you can get it directly from Motherlove, or at the health food store.