FAQ’s

What does a postpartum appointment look like?

You will fill out an intake form ahead of time, so that I can become familiar with you, your health, your family and your birth. It is thorough, but you can fill out in as much or as little detail as you like.

A Chinese medicine treatment includes acupuncture, moxabustion (moxa), cupping, gua sha, lifestyle and dietary advice with the choice to add on a herbal medicine consultation. A combination of all or some of these will be woven together in your 60 or 90 minute appointment.

What if I have no one to look after my baby?

Your kiddo can be present and cuddling into you throughout or I can hold them while you rest with your acupuncture needles in.

Generally speaking, your bebé will be safe and comfortable tucked into you while you rest, but if they are unsettled or you would like some solo time, I am more than happy to whisk them off while you simmer with the acupuncture needles in. Needles are retained for around 20 minutes. Cups are on for approximately 8 minutes. The rest of the treatment elements, either your arms or my arms will be free.

What is moxa and gua sha?

Most people are familiar with acupuncture, herbal medicine and cupping, but moxa and body gua sha are less well known.

Moxa is a herb (mugwort) that has been processed into various forms. It can be used as the fresh form or what we refer to as moxa punk. It is also compressed into moxa sticks. I most often will use the smokeless form as the smoky sticks smell like a cross between a campfire and a cigar (I think it’s quite delish). It is used for MANY different things, but in the context of postpartum care it is used to strongly tonify Yang and warm the uterus. This is particularly important if you birthed via c-section.

Gua sha is having a moment as a self care / facial technique, but it can do so much more! I use gua sha predominantly on the neck, shoulders and back to ease muscle tension and remove stagnation. Like cupping, it often leaves behind red marks and can be uncomfortable, but the feeling afterwards is so good!

What can Chinese medicine help with?

Chinese medicine may help with symptoms associated with:

• General health & wellness

• Lactation

• Energy

• Sleep

• Mental health

• Muscular pain

• Pelvic floor support

• C-section scar support

• Low appetite

• Brain fog

• Digestion / bowel movements

  • To name the most common postpartum ailments, but throw what you’ve got at me!

Can I have just one appointment?

Of course! This treatment type has been created to nourish and support a woman in postpartum. The focus is on calming the nervous system, nourishing qi and blood and attending to aches and pains in the body (hello neck and shoulders!)

Chinese medicine is predominantly NOT a one and done type of therapy, so to truly manage more in depth acute or chronic conditions, you may choose to book in for further treatment in your home, via telehealth (herbal medicine) or in my home clinic in Heidelberg.

I already have a Chinese medicine practitioner.

I love to hear it. Your body will be well acquainted with acupuncture! If your praccie doesn’t do home visits, I am happy to see you in this season. If there is anything pressing that you would like them to pass along to me regarding your treatment, I will gladly speak to them prior to and after your appointment via email.