Naturopathic Medicine during Pregnancy

Naturopathic Medicine is an integrative health care philosophy that recognizes the importance of health during conception, pregnancy, labour and birth.  Naturopathic Doctors work with your health care team (family doctor, midwife and/or obstetrician) to provide care to both the pregnant mother and unborn baby.

Naturopathic Medicine is a BABY FRIENDLY alternative

Naturopathic Medicine isn’t just for moms.  It’s for babies too.  During pregnancy and infancy Naturopathic Medicine can help your baby reach it’s full potential – for growth, intelligence and health.  It can also help prevent common childhood conditions, such as eczema, asthma and allergies.

Naturopathy SUPPORTS PREGNANCY

There is no better time to see a Naturopath than during pregnancy.  Your body is changing.  Your nutritional needs are changing.  You may be experiencing health concerns you have never had before.  Naturopathic Medicine supports your body, and your baby, with gentle, safe and effective medicine.

Conditions that Naturopathic Medicine can treat during pregnancy include:

• • • Morning sickness
    • Heart burn
    • Fatigue
    • Insomnia
    • Anxiety and depression
    • Constipation
    • Hemorrhoids
    • Fluid retention and swelling
    • Lowered immune system
    • Nutrient deficiencies
    • Leg and foot cramps
    • Stretch marks
    • Gestational diabetes

Natural Therapies used by Naturopathic Doctors during Pregnancy

NUTRITION

Build nutritional foundations for a healthy pregnancy.  Guidance on selecting pre-natal vitamins and additional supplements.  Support for vegan, vegetarian and special diets.  Food and teas as medicine for heart burn, morning sickness, water retention, insomnia and more.

ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture can relieve back pain, anxiety and stress during pregnancy.  Acupressure is effective for treating nausea and morning sickness.  Acupuncture has also been used to effectively help rotate a breech baby, and for labour induction in post-date pregnancies.

HOMEOPATHY

A safe and effective treatment during all stages of pregnancy, labour and
post-natal care.  It is used to treat any number of conditions and provides pain management during labour and delivery and is equally effective in uncomplicated labour, difficult labour and caesarean sections.

MASSAGE

Massage therapy is a pregnant mother’s best friend.  It can provide physical and emotional relaxation, ease cramps, treat lower back and hip pain.  It can also lower blood pressure and increase blood flow to internal organs and the placenta.  It is very effective in reducing swelling and fluid retention during pregnancy.  At both the Integrative Health Institute and Oma Chiropractic and Wellness, we work as an integrative team with registered massage therapists to support pregnant women throughout their pregnancy and post-partum period with massage therapy.

CHIROPRACTIC MANIPULATION*

Maintaining a healthy spine and nervous system during pregnancy can prevent further postural problems that might occur during and after childbirth.  Chiropractic care reduces back pain and pelvic pain during pregnancy, labour and delivery.
*Although Naturopathic Doctors are trained in manipulation, Dr. Watson does not perform manipulation in her practice.  Dr. Watson refers patients to a chiropractor at Oma Chiropractic and Wellness who is well-versed in pregnancy care.

Naturopathic Medicine is SAFE in Pregnancy

Some therapies used in Naturopathy have the potential to be harmful if not used under the care of a trained Naturopathic Doctor.  Dr. Watson is here to make sure you make SAFE and HEALTHY choices for yourself, and your baby.

Diverse families are welcome.