Acupuncture in Obstetrics - Debra Betts
(postgraduate)
A course integrating western pathophysiology, with Chinese medicine- combining the historical use for acupuncture in pregnancy with the latest western medical research - enabling practitioners to provide a safer, more comprehensive clinical practice in this specialized area. We will explore both the western and TCM understanding of the pathophysiologies of pregnancy and childbirth, with particular emphasis on understanding the red flags and acupuncture treatment. Covered is the use of Chinese medical diagnostics specific to obstetrics; using the obstetric and medical history, obstetric symptoms and signs and TCM pulse, tongue to develop and confirm diagnosis and treatment. | Point selection, needling techniques, types of needles and moxa, treatment duration and frequency will be discussed through the use of case histories, and practical work in a clinical classroom setting. Designed to equip acupuncturists to safely and effectively adjunct western maternity care, it also effectively equips the acupuncturist to fully understand the limitations of acupuncture treatment in obstetrics, as well as to highlight the opportunities to utilise acupuncture as a safe and effective adjunct or alternative to western treatment protocol. There is a continuous discussion of 'scope of practice' throughout the teaching. All relevant research in the subject of obstetric acupuncture and acupressure will be referenced and referred to throughout the course. |
Status: Email expressions of interest in the course. Use 'Contact Us' menu or Mailto:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Attendance Requirement: Two weekend workshops
Assessment method: Four case studies
Class time: (TBA)
Course specific entry requirements: Graduate of NZSATCM, or member of NZRA
Weekend One
- Historical use of acupuncture – relevance to today’s clinical practice.
- Western medical research –understanding and using research to enhance clinical practice.
- Western medical considerations - Specific red flags for this specialized area.
- Working effectively within an acupuncture scope of practice- legal requirements, practitioner responsibilities.
- Obstetric Acupuncture Treatment (see sidebar)
Weekend Two
An in depth look at treating specific conditions with a focus on western medicine physiology, research and integrative practice.
- Fetal development - Western and Traditional Chinese considerations – including theories concerning the Five Phase influence on pregnancy the development of the Shen, Hun and Po.
- Supportive care in early pregnancy – women with a history of miscarriage, undergoing IVF treatment or actively bleeding.
- Miscarriage
- Diabetes
- Polyhydramniosis
- Women presenting with chronic pain from underlying conditions in pregnancy
- Specific concerns with twin or multiple pregnancies
- Induction - crucial considerations
- Preparing woman for elective caesarean section
- Influencing breastfeeding and postnatal depression
- Practical - Focus for this weekend is on practitioner discussion on developing treatment strategies for dealing with these conditions and practical needling techniques.
