Post-Natal Care
The arrival of your new baby is an exciting time, but also a very exhausting time when new parents can be particular vulnerable. Our priority is to see that mum and baby in particular are both well looked after. Many of our practitioners are mums and have been there ourselves, and we understand the challenges that parents of newborns are faced with. We can assist you with common issues that arise during the post-natal period with practical advice and support to help get you through those tough first 3 months.
There are common problems that can arise with mum, and those relating to breastfeeding can particularly troublesome. Low milk supply can be stressful, particularly if your baby is unsettled, or not gaining weight as expected. Oversupply of milk can also cause problems, leading to upset digestion in the baby, and problems with getting a good latch.
Mastitis is also a common problem, and whilst not isolated to the newborn phase, women can be more prone to problems in the newborn phase because their milk supply is still settling in the first 6-12 weeks post partum. Mastitis can quickly become quite severe and so prompt action is essential to avoid full blown infections, and the formation of a breast abscess. Where possible, feed your baby as often as possible, with the aim to drain the problem breast as completely as possible as often as possible in order to resolve the blocked duct. If you can't feed your baby, using a breast pump is also fine. This can all be enhanced with the use of massage and warm compresses to help shift the blockage. There is no need to discard the milk, it's perfectly safe for your baby to drink your milk whilst you have a blocked duct or mastitis. Seek medical attention promptly if you have a high fever.
It's also common for women to feel very flat after the birth of their baby, expectations and reality often don't meet up, and the unrelenting feeding schedule of a newborn baby can really wear down the resilience of even the toughest woman. We understand. We have experienced it too, and we can help you by making sure you have the support you need, and have your nutritional needs met. Post-natal depression can often be dismissed as difficulty settling into this new phase of life, and it is important to talk things through, to get some perspective on your huge life changes with your new addition to the family, and seek extra support if you need it. There are many resources available to new parents, and your practitioner can assist you to reach the services you need.
Perhaps one of the cruelest problems a new mother can experience, is insomnia. The gruelling timetable of feeding through the night can be like pure agony if your hormones are playing see-saw with you, resulting with insomnia being thrown into the mix. Surviving on 3 hours of sleep, in 1 hour blocks, is no way to stay sane. We can talk through various options, and your practitioner can discuss with you if herbal medicine might be suitable for you.
Some women have other symptoms that arise as their hormones and immune system restabilise after pregnancy. Eczema, sweating, hair loss and hayfever are not uncommon to see in new mothers.
The demands of a newborn schedule don't always make it possible for a woman to easily make it to the clinic for an appointment. Women who are existing patients of the clinic, may find it more convenient to discuss their concerns with their practitioner via an online or phone consult, or via an email consultation.
Whilst you are trying to navigate the massive change your body has gone through in transitioning from pregnancy back to "normal", there could be problems with baby that can leave you feeling stressed and worried. Constipation and diarrhea are not uncommon, as well as skin rashes. A diagnosis of failure to thrive, or poor weight gain, are both very stressful, with constant monitoring and weighing to ensure your baby is growing and healthy leading to anxiety and high stress for the parents. Slightly older children can have problems with ear infections and common cold, and you may wish to discuss with your practitioner if natural treatments will be appropriate for your child.
Treatment for your baby involves nutrition advice and herbal medicine for mum to take (if your baby is exclusively breastfed), formulas that are suitable for infants can also be mixed directly into baby’s bottle. Laser acupuncture can be used for certain conditions, your practitioner can also show you massage techniques to do at home that can have a profound effect on baby’s health.