Pregnancy and Naturopathic Medicine

Philosophy of Naturopathic Perinatal Care

The practice of naturopathic perinatal care is based on the understanding that pregnancy, labour, and birth are profound experiences, which carry significant meaning for a woman, her family, and her community. Naturopathic medicine is grounded in the principle of health and well being, recognizing that conception, pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding are natural life processes.  

Naturopathic medicine is traditionally holistic, combining an understanding of the social, emotional, mental, cultural, psychological and physical aspects of a women’s reproductive experience. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) promote wellness in women, babies, and families in collaboration with other health care professionals.

The role of naturopathic medical care during the perinatal period is to promote wellness, prevent complications, and treat health concerns that may arise throughout the 40 weeks of pregnancy. If health concerns do arise NDs focus on treating the underlying cause of illness through supporting the bodies self-healing capabilities.  Natural treatment plans encompass a blend of modern scientific research and traditional forms of healing that are individualized to reach each patient’s health goals.  

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A naturopathic doctor’s scope of practice during the perinatal period includes thorough assessments (ie. blood work, physical exams, and referrals), nutritional medicine, both eastern and western botanical medicine, acupuncture, Myer’s Cocktails (IV vitamins and minerals), lifestyle counseling, homeopathy, osseous manipulation, and the prescription of pharmaceutical medicines when required.  Because NDs are not licensed to delivery babies, they work closely with midwives, obstetricians and family doctors to ensure continuity of care is met.  Upon patient request NDs can act as a supporting role during your birth to help with natural pain management and induction.  Furthermore, the wonderful bonus of naturopathic medical care is that NDs can continue to care for you, your new babe and your entire family for as long as you’d like.  Naturopathy is a family focused health care profession, and NDs are licensed to treat individuals at all stages of life.

Common Health Concerns addressed by NDs during the Perinatal Period:

• Diet and nutrition
• Nausea and vomiting
• Miscarriage prevention
• Urinary tract infections
• Digestive concerns (heart burn, constipation)
• Leg cramps
• Skin concerns
• Edema
• Prevention of allergies, eczema, and asthma in baby.
• Hemorrhoids, and varicose veins.
• Colds and flus
• Vaginal yeast infections
• Fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and depression.
• Anemia
• Sciatica
• Back pain
• Leg cramps
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Gestational diabetes and blood sugar imbalances.
• Pregnancy Induced Hypertension
• Prevention of preeclampsia
• Prevention of preterm labour and premature rupture of membranes.
• Preparing uterus for labour
• Turning of breech or posterior position (acupuncture)
• Cervical ripening (preparing cervix for labour)
• Natural induction (acupuncture or botanical)
• Labour pain management

Dr. Meghan Stobbs, Naturopathic Doctor 
at Healing Cedar Wellness in Port Moody

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