Doing alternative medicine during pregnancy is not recommended, because of the risk of disturbing the health of the fetus. However, not all alternative medicine is bad for pregnant women (pregnant women). There are several treatments that are actually safe to do during pregnancy, you know!
Some alternative treatments are believed to be safe during pregnancy, but pregnant women are still advised to consult a doctor before starting to try them.
Some Alternative Medicines During Pregnancy
Here are some alternative treatments that are safe and can be done by pregnant women:
1. Aromatherapy
In the first trimester of pregnancy, pregnant women generally feel nausea and vomiting more easily. This condition is known as morning sickness. Now, To reduce these conditions, pregnant women can inhale the fragrance of aromatherapy oils.
Apart from relieving morning sicknessInhaling aromatherapy oils during pregnancy can also help pregnant women sleep better, feel more relaxed, and energized.
Besides being inhaled directly, aromatherapy oils can also be added to warm water for bathing. But keep in mind, not all aromatherapy oil ingredients are good for pregnant women. Ask your doctor first about what types of aromatherapy oils are safe to use during pregnancy.
2. Massage
According to a study, there are a number of benefits that can be obtained when doing massage during pregnancy, including:
- Makes the mood better.
- Reduces stress, depression and anxiety.
- Reducing discomfort during pregnancy, such as muscle pain in the legs or arms, backache, or headaches.
- Promote blood circulation.
- Makes sleep more restful.
- Help facilitate the birth process.
Even so, massage during pregnancy must be done carefully. Pregnant women are advised not to massage the abdominal area in the first trimester of pregnancy. Pregnant women can massage the shoulders, arms, or legs with gentle pressure, to make the body more relaxed.
3. Rflexology
Although there is no medical evidence, reflexology is believed to be able to overcome mild headaches during pregnancy. Pregnant women can do their own massage on the big toe, to reduce these complaints.
4. Acupuncture
This method may be used as an alternative treatment to treat several conditions during pregnancy, such as:
- Depression
- Nauseous
- Back pain
- Pelvic pain
- Headache
To avoid risks to the fetus, it is recommended to do acupuncture when the gestational age is above 12 weeks.
The important thing that pregnant women need to remember is that alternative medicine cannot replace the medical treatment recommended by the doctor. If pregnant women have certain health conditions, continue to undergo treatment and check with the doctor regularly.
If pregnant women want to do alternative medicine, choose a practitioner who is competent and has an official practice permit. However, be sure to consult a doctor first.
