Morning sickness ranges from 'unpleasant' to life threatening due to severe dehydration. It is very common during the first trimester of pregnancy and often settles down. For some women morning sickness can be a real problem and make pregnancy a right ordeal.

What causes morning sickness?

The presence of a baby in the uterus obstructs the movement of energy in the acupuncture channels. Instead of stomach energy descending, as it ought to, it ascends leading to nausea and vomiting. This is termed Rebellious Stomach Qi (energy), as the Qi isn't moving in the direction that is should be. For most women, the body adjusts itself and the symptoms go away. For others, morning sickness persists and treatment is necessary to regulate the acupuncture channels and stop sickness.

Results can be dramatic after one to three sessions, for others it takes longer, depending if there are any other underlying causes that are contributing to the morning sickness. For example, I recently treated a lady for morning sickness who had a history of irritable bowel syndrome. In this case the energetic in her abdomen were out of balance before she became pregnant, and so she needed more treatment.

Acupuncture is a good treatment choice for morning sickness as the results are often very successful and quick, and it does not involve taking any medication.