Miscarriage

Preventing Miscarriage

Posted By Mike Berkley, L.Ac.

Introduction

Miscarriage, a heartbreaking experience for expecting parents, often occurs during the critical first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Intra-uterine growth retardation (IUGR) and intra-uterine fetal demise (IUFD), conditions characterized by insufficient blood flow to the yolk sac and placenta, are significant contributors to early pregnancy loss.

Acupuncture is gaining recognition for its ability to improve blood flow and enhance overall pregnancy outcomes. This article explores how acupuncture can play a vital role in addressing IUGR and IUFD, offering hope to those seeking a successful and healthy pregnancy.

Understanding IUGR, IUFD, and the Role of Blood Flow

IUGR is a condition in which fetal growth falls below the 10th percentile for a given gestational age, leading to the development of smaller-than-expected newborns. IUFD, on the other hand, refers to the unfortunate occurrence of fetal death within the womb before delivery. Both conditions share a common link: compromised blood flow to the developing fetus, particularly to the yolk sac and placenta.

This reduced blood flow can result in oxygen and nutrient deficiencies, contributing to developmental issues and increasing the risk of miscarriage. Remember, 90% of miscarriages occur within the first 12 weeks of conception.

Acupuncture: A Holistic Approach to Preventing Miscarriage

Acupuncture is an effective approach to improving blood flow and addressing the underlying issues associated with IUGR and IUFD.

Enhanced Blood Flow: Acupuncture promotes improved blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels and reducing inflammation. This increased circulation is vital for delivering essential oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to the yolk sac and placenta, supporting fetal growth and development, and preventing miscarriage.

The Protocol

To address the concerns of IUGR, IUFD, and miscarriage prevention, a specific acupuncture protocol is followed:

Twice Weekly Treatment for 13 Weeks

After transfer (IVF), or IUI, acupuncture sessions are continued twice weekly for 13 weeks. This is the most likely time for a miscarriage to occur. Acupuncture treatment helps prevent miscarriage by addressing the two main causes of miscarriage: IUFD and IUGR.

A Smile and a Hug: The Positive Outcome

The journey from conception to a healthy pregnancy is often fraught with anxiety and uncertainty. Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to addressing the challenges of IUGR, IUFD, and miscarriage prevention.

By optimizing blood flow to the yolk, sac, placenta, and developing fetus, acupuncture is a valuable addition to the arsenal of reproductive health strategies.

With twice-weekly acupuncture sessions, the goal is to send expectant parents’ home with a smile and a hug, ensuring a positive outcome for both mother and child.

In conclusion, acupuncture presents a promising path for preventing miscarriage, particularly in cases related to IUGR and IUFD.