After Birth - Supporting the Post-Partum period with Acupuncture, Herbs and Nutrition

Course overview

This 6-hour course will provide an in depth look at the physiology and energetics of the immediate postpartum period (birth-6 weeks). Time will be spent discussing the impact of birth and birth complications on the mother, and will provide treatment strategies for supporting her through this often difficult, sometimes traumatic time. Topics of discussion will include the impact of birth on the immediate postpartum period, including normal physiological birth, birth interventions/ trauma, including Cesarean section and traumatic vaginal delivery. The concept of ‘obstetric violence’ and its impact will be addressed. Interrupted bonding due to neonatal or maternal complications, lactation and breast health issues, postpartum depression, anxiety and psychosis, management of depletion from sleep deprivation and insufficient support will be covered. Treatment strategies will include herbs (including addressing the controversy of placentophagy and method of preparation), acupuncture (emphasis on the Eight Extraordinary Meridians), nutrition, moxa (mother warming) and lifestyle modifications.