It is common that after a c-section, new mothers experience limited mobility and postoperative pain. Typically, opioids are prescribed in order to mitigate these symptoms, but bring with them unpleasant side effects, risk of addiction, and emotional strain.
A new placebo-controlled clinical trial had 180 expecting mothers scheduled for cesarean delivery divided into 3 groups- acupuncture, placebo (fake) acupuncture, and standard postoperative analgesia (opioids).
Patients in the acupuncture group received four points in their ear and six points in their body. The needles were placed before the spinal anesthesia and remained there for three days after delivery.
In the standard care group, 1g of oral paracetamol was given four times per day, supplemented by 50mg of diclofenac potassium three times a day. If neither achieved relief, they were given 7.5mg of piritramide (opioid) up to six times per day.
The results were measured in regard to multiple aspects of postoperative recovery. The women were asked about their pain intensity upon movement on day one, mobilization, catheter removal, total use of pain medication and side effects, and quality of life improvements (mood, sleep, enjoyment of life, etc.).
Results:
🤰🏻 98% of acupuncture patients were fully mobilized on day one (where only 58% were in the standard care/opioid group).
🤰🏻 Catheterization was removed in 93% of the acupuncture patients (70% in the standard care/opioid group).
This exciting research shows that acupuncture is a proven way to help heal and return the body back to normal following a c-section. Please contact my office for more information.
Image: @nataliekarpushenko
With Love,
Charlotte Morgan, M.S. L.Ac.