SUJET 3 : Décembre 2009

 

Naturopathy and Pregnancy

          Naturopathy during pregnancy can be an integral part of your health care. With the many natural health products on the market, it is important to be informed as to which ones are safe for you and your baby, and which ones may pose a risk. Certain pharmaceutical medications and natural health products are contraindicated in pregnancy; however with proper care and education, there are safe alternatives. An accredited naturopath is trained to monitor all stages of pregnancy, can provide helpful remedies and lifestyle choices for pregnancy, birth, post-partum, lactation, and for the natural care of the little one.

Many new symptoms may arise during pregnancy, most of which are normal, however if there are some that are troubling, causing distress, or if complications are developing there are tools to provide you with adjunctive care.

Red raspberry (Rubus ideae) leaf tea is an excellent source of iron and other minerals. Enjoy 1-2 cups per day during your second and third trimester (after 20 weeks gestation) however caution if you are taking iron medication. There are many more herbal teas and combinations to promote wellness during pregnancy that you could consult with your naturopath.

Taking a good quality pre-natal vitamin is absolutely necessary before, during, and after pregnancy with adequate folic acid levels. Research indicates that ensuring adequate intake of DHA-omega-3 fatty acid during the last trimester of pregnancy and lactation may be helpful for neuronal development and reducing inflammation*.

Homeopathic remedies are excellent for a number of conditions and ailments during pregnancy, and are completely non-toxic for your baby. Classical homeopathy is a science and art to your individualized symptoms, and will require the guidance by your naturopath to properly prescribe the accurate remedy, or an equivalent to a first aid kit of homeopathic remedies. Classical homeopathy is very useful for both managing illnesses and prevention by increasing our body’s capacity for healing and decreasing our susceptibility to illness.     

We can never undervalue the medicinal qualities of certain foods, and their effects on body, mind, and soul. Indulge in nutritious and healthy choices during your pregnancy such as yams, squash, lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and organic meat products, free of hormones and other unnecessary chemicals. Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein and good fats. Other healthy foods include avocados, beets, fresh olive oil, pomegranates, and oatmeal. As best as possible, choose organic whole foods.

Integrating naturopathy to your birth plan can increase your confidence in ensuring a natural pregnancy and child birth as best as possible when it is safe. Naturopathy can be part of a peri-natal program to prepare your body for pregnancy through detoxification and increasing vitality. Naturopathy can be integrated with your health care team during pregnancy, delivery, post-partum, lactation, and for the growth and development of a healthier child. A naturopath will also help you make informed decisions about your health care through education. There are many alternatives with very good outcomes.    

 

An accredited naturopath is highly trained in areas of medical sciences, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, psychology, nutrition, Chinese medicine, herbal medicine, and homeopathy. For more information, visit www.qanm.org or www.cand.ca (the associations), and www.ccnm.edu (the accredited college in Canada).  

To book an appointment with a naturopath, please call Melanie Kusznireckyj, BSc, ND at Clinique Altermed www.cliniquealtermed.com 514-287-3289 in the heart of Plateau Mont-Royal, a multi-disciplinary clinic offering complementary and alternative care.