The Power of Acupuncture in Women’s Health

Caring Hands Midwife Barbara Strawbridge shares how acupuncture and moxibustion can support women through fertility, pregnancy, menopause and beyond.

At Caring Hands Midwife, my aim has always been to provide gentle, effective, and evidence-based care for women at every stage of life. Acupuncture is one of the most versatile therapies I use – it can support fertility, ease the challenges of pregnancy, help manage menopause symptoms, and promote overall wellbeing.

With over 38 years in nursing, health visiting and midwifery, I have seen first-hand how acupuncture can make a difference. It works by stimulating specific points on the body to encourage balance, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Acupuncture in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, acupuncture can be used to treat a range of musculoskeletal problems such as back pain, pelvic discomfort and sciatica. It can also help alleviate nausea and vomiting, calm anxiety, and encourage spontaneous birth as the due date approaches. Every treatment is carefully tailored to be safe and supportive for both mother and baby.

Moxibustion for Breech Babies

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese technique often used alongside acupuncture. It involves burning a small herbal stick (usually made from mugwort) near a specific acupuncture point to generate warmth and stimulate energy flow. This can help encourage a baby in the breech position to turn naturally.

I don’t physically carry out the moxibustion treatment myself – instead, I teach partners how to do it safely at home, allowing them to continue the treatment and feel actively involved in the process. It’s a wonderful way for couples to share the experience and work together as they prepare for birth.

Fertility and Preconception Support

Acupuncture can also be very beneficial for women who are trying to conceive. By supporting hormonal balance, improving periods, and reducing stress, it helps create the best possible conditions for pregnancy. Many women find that the sessions also provide valuable relaxation and emotional balance during what can be an anxious time.

Ear Acupuncture and Menopause

I’m also trained in ear acupuncture, which is an effective treatment for both pregnancy and menopause symptoms. By targeting specific points on the ear, it can help reduce hot flushes, balance mood, improve sleep and ease tension.

Combination Treatments

In my practice, I often combine acupuncture with other therapies such as Reflex Zone Therapy, clinical reflexology, aromatherapy and clinical hypnosis. This holistic approach enhances the effectiveness of each treatment and helps to achieve more positive outcomes.

For me, the goal is always the same: to support women as whole people – body, mind and spirit. Acupuncture offers a gentle yet powerful way to restore balance, relieve discomfort and nurture wellbeing through every stage of a woman’s journey.

Caring Hands, 281 Drumcroon Road, Coleraine, BT51 3QT
Tel: 07790914420 | www.caringhandsmidwife.co.uk