Moxibustion breech how does it work

According to guidelines published in the BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in , "the use of moxibustion for breech presentation at weeks of gestation, under the guidance of a trained practitioner" may promote spontaneous version. Granese has prescribed moxibustion for breech presentation before 36 weeks. When moxibustion is performed in a clinical setting, the risks associated with it are so minimal "they're hardly worth mentioning," says Burris. Those risks include nausea from the scent of burning mugwort, and burns and blisters if the ignited herb comes in contact with the skin.

Whether or not it's safe to practice moxibustion at home depends on who you ask. Burris, for example, says although she's aware other practitioners give their patients moxibustion sticks to use at home, her practice advises against it.

But Ingegno says moxibustion can be performed at home using sticks, under the training and supervision of a licensed acupuncturist. However, burning moxa directly on the point is not an at-home technique and should only be performed in a clinical setting, Ingegno warns.

While learning you have a breech baby is no doubt a stressful situation, moxibustion can be quite relaxing. Moxibustion for a breech baby is usually performed between weeks 34 and 36 of pregnancy, and may be prescribed as an alternative or precursor to an external cephalic version ECV. You could also ask your midwife about having a vaginal breech birth. Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese technique to turn a breech baby to head first, usually around 34—36 weeks of pregnancy.

Moxa — sticks of dried herb — are used to heat specific energy points on your little toes. A few maternity units now offer it, or search www. Moxibustion is not appropriate for every mum with a breech baby. Whilst it is a gentle and generally safe technique, it should not be used if:. If you are Rhesus negative, ask your midwife if your Anti-D is up-to-date. No: CD Acupuncture Medicine Rebecca's vision is to promote evidence-based birth practices among consumers and clinicians worldwide.

She publishes summaries of birth evidence using a Question and Answer style. The mission of Evidence Based Birth is to get birth evidence out of medical journals and into the hands of the public. You can follow Rebecca on Facebook , Twitter or follow the Evidence Based Birth newsletter to get free printable handouts and other news.

Subscribe by Email. Sharon is also a trainer of new birth doulas and childbirth educators. She blogs professionally on perinatal topics.

Sharon enjoys facilitating discussion around best practice, current research and its practical application to maternal infant health and community standards. To learn more about Sharon, you are invited to visit her website, SharonMuza. Contact Us Login. Welcome To Lamaze. The Lamaze Difference. Early Pregnancy. Signs of Pregnancy. Navigating Prenatal Appointments.

Fitness During Pregnancy. Understanding Bed Rest. Forming Your Birth Plan. Pregnancy and Birth Decision Guides. Labor Day: What To Expect. Lamaze Healthy Birth Practices Translations.

Early Induction. Baby's Developmental Milestones. Tips For Establishing Breastfeeding. Playful Parents. Bonding with Baby Now. Find a Local Class. However it appears that using moxibustion twice per day for two weeks during weeks of pregnancy will work for 1 out of every 8 women Women who are interested in using Chinese medicine moxibustion and acupuncture to help turn a breech baby may want to consult a licensed acupuncturist who specializes in the treatment of pregnant women.

References Cardini F. Search Search for:. Join Our Professional Membership. Pin It on Pinterest.