What is Pregnancy & Post Partum
Condition
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is usually 40 weeks in length, measured from the first day of the last menstrual period. This then consists of 3 trimesters; weeks 1-13, 14-27 and 28-40/birth. The goal as a practitioner is to help support the health of the Mother and her developing child.
- Breast enlargement and tenderness.
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Back/body aches
- Reflux
- Thrush
- Gestational diabetes
- Oedema
- Muscle cramps
- Constipation
- Dietary recommendations: Food inclusions/exclusions, increasing protein, avoiding stimulants e.g. caffeine, tea, cola; antioxidants, fibre intake, water
- Nutritional support: Vitamin A, iodine, Vtamin B12 and folate, vitamin B6, iron, vitamin C, chromium, magnesium, zinc
- Herbal support: Ginger, peppermint, cinnamon, gymnema.
Condition
Preparation for Labour
In the weeks leading up to the due date, there are a combination of techniques used to prepare the woman’s body for birth. These techniques can help to improve uterine tone, assist in the commencement of labour, coordinate uterine action, reduce or prevent ‘after pains’ and assist with the production of breast milk.
Herbal support: Uterine tonics, raspberry leaf, black cohosh, cramp bark, wild yam.
Condition
Post-Partum Depression
Post-partum ‘blues’ affects up to 80% of women, peaking on day 5 and often resolving by day 10 post-partum. Post-partum depression (PPD) however, affects up to 20% of women. Possible risk factors for PDD include previous depression, mood disturbance. Family history of mood disorders, thyroid dysfunction and anaemia. Whilst the exact aetiology of PDD is unknown, it is thought to be associated with a decrease in brain serotonin levels, with a decrease in oestrogen and progesterone, and a sudden drop in insulin during the post-partum period.
- Anxiety attacks
- Tearfulness
- Loss of interest in life
- Insecurity
- Inappropriate obsessional thoughts
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Guilt
- Fear of harming the baby
- Reluctance to breastfeed.
- Dietary and lifestyle recommendations: Small, frequent meals, adequate protein, hydrations, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, appropriate treatment and support (psychologists, massage, mother’s groups).
- Nutritional support: Essential fatty acids, B complex, inositol
- Herbal support: Anti-depressant herbs, St. John’s Wort, oats, skullcap, lemon balm, lavender, passion flower, chamomile, ashwagandha, eleuthero.
Condition
Breastfeeding
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months due to the many infant and maternal benefits. However, it is not always a possibility. Breast milk contains high concentrations of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, nucleic acids, micronutrients and digestive enzymes. Breast milk supports the baby’s immune growth and function, allergy prevention and reduces risk of disease. Breastfeeding also accelerates the Mother’s healing process after birth, increases the bond with her child, whilst also increasing energy expenditure, therefore supporting weight loss post birth. Approximately 750mL of breast milk is required to exclusively breastfeed a 1-6month old infant and when this cannot be met, it can become quite stressful for the Mother.
- Dietary and lifestyle recommendations: Adequate sleep, adequate hydration, breastfeeding frequently, avoid smoking, limit alcohol.
- Nutritional support: Key nutrients to consider include folate, omega 3 fatty acids, iodine, selenium, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin B complex, vitamin K.
- Herbal support: Galactagogues are remedies used to support production of breast milk and include Fenugreek, Chaste tree, fennel seeds and goat’s rue.