Healing After Birth

Shuen Kramer
May 29
2 min read

Embracing Postpartum Care with Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine by Dr Shuen Kramer

As a fellow mother, I would like to talk about the postpartum period. Often referred to as the "fourth trimester," it is a transformative time for new mothers. As the body heals and adjusts after childbirth, it's essential to provide it with the care and support it needs. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer gentle, holistic approaches to help in this recovery journey.

Dr Shuen Kramer of Womb to World Brisbane holds a jar with a flame, preparing for cupping therapy on a person's back. Room is softly lit and calming.

My Postpartum Experience

After childbirth, I remember experiencing various physical discomforts, including fatigue, back pain, and hormonal imbalances. Acupuncture has been shown to assist in alleviating these symptoms by promoting blood circulation and balancing the body's Qi.

A study by Bao et al. (2020) highlighted the effectiveness of acupuncture in enhancing postpartum recovery, noting improvements in physical well-being and energy levels.

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing After Birth

The emotional rollercoaster following childbirth is natural, but for some, it can lead to postpartum depression or anxiety. Acupuncture's calming effects can help stabilise mood and reduce stress.

Research indicates that acupuncture can be a valuable complementary therapy in managing postpartum depression, offering mothers a sense of balance and tranquillity during this period (Chan et al., 2014).

Dr Shuen Kramer of Womb to World Brisbane gives a massage to a relaxed person lying on a patterned blanket in a bright room. Both appear calm and at ease.

Acupuncture and Breastfeeding Support

I remember, as a new mother, facing challenges with breastfeeding and, through talking with others, found that it was common among new mothers. Acupuncture can play a role in supporting lactation by stimulating milk production and regulating hormonal fluctuations.

Some studies have revealed that acupuncture significantly improved lactation insufficiency in postpartum women (Jin et al., 2021).

Replenishing the Body with Traditional Chinese Medicine

Along with acupuncture, we also use Traditional Chinese herbal remedies and dietary recommendations tailored to individual needs. These practices aim to replenish vital energy (Qi) and nourish the body from within, supporting recovery on a deeper level.

Seeking Support for Your Postpartum Journey

If you need assistance in finding registered practitioners or have further questions about integrating acupuncture and TCM into your postpartum care plan, feel free to reach out to one of our AHPRA-registered practitioners. We are here to support you during this important time.

Book an Appointment

Dr Shuen Kramer of Womb to World Brisbane applies acupuncture needles to a person lying on a massage table, with a green eye mask, in a serene room with soft lighting.

References

• Bao, C. et al. (2020). Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Promoting Postpartum Recovery: A Randomized Controlled Study. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 18(5), 389–395.

• Jin, Z. et al. (2021). Acupuncture for Postpartum Lactation Insufficiency: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 21(1), 87.

• Chan, W. S. et al. (2014). The Role of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Depression: A Review of Clinical Studies. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 20(2), 65–73.