If you are reading this article chances are you are currently pregnant and entering into your third trimester. At our Brisbane Acupuncture clinic we are all about informing our clients as much as possible, especially in the realms of updated research, both traditional and scientific.
There is now updated research supporting the use of Moxibustion for Breech Baby presentation in pregnant women. According to Cochrane Review conducted in 2023 (Coyle, et al., 2023), after a review of 13 studies, found that the use of moxibustion combined with normal care reduces the chances of breech babies at birth, compared to usual care alone.
What is Breech Presentation?
Breech presentation is a common occurrence in the third trimester of pregnancy and is when the baby is bottom-down. The incidence of breech is believed to decrease as the pregnancy approaches full term, but can still occur in 3%-4% of pregnancies (Coyle et al., 2023).
Having a breech presentation at the end of pregnancy is associated with complications such as placenta praevia, multiple gestation and uterine abnormalities and poor uterine tone. In addition, although the birth of a breech baby is possible with experienced health care providers in well-equiped hospitals, this is not always available in all healthcare settings, which increases the incidences of caesarean births occurring (Coyle et al., 2023).
What is involved when performing Moxibustion for Breech presentation?
Moxibustion is a treatment method based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, that involves burning of a herbal stick containing a Chinese herb (Mugwort) close to the skin at a specific acupuncture point (BL67) to produce a warming sensation. The heat should be warm, but not uncomfortable. Moxibustion is recommended to be performed by a qualified Acupuncturist as they have been trained on the appropriate protocol and techniques to use.
What are the mechanisms of Moxibustion?
According to Zhang et al. (2013), moxa sticks have been shown to emit visible light and radiate near-infrared, short-wavelength infrared, medium-wavelength infrared, and long-wavelength infrared radiation, ranging from 0.8 to 5.6 μm.
Exact mechanisms in using moxibustion on 'BL67' is unclear, but it has been hypothesised that this technique stimulates the production of maternal hormones (placental oestrogens and prostaglandin) and encourages the lining of the uterus to contract thereby stimulating foetal activity and turning of the baby (Coyle et al., 2023).
When is the best time to start moxibustion for breech presentation?
The optimum time that moxibustion be commenced is at 34 weeks gestation as recommended by Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine protocols, but may be effective as late as 38/39 weeks gestation (Betts, 2006; Deadman, 2007).
Where can I book in for moxibustion for breech presentation?
It is recommended that you book in with a degree qualified, acupuncturist to perform the protocol. They will also be able to guide you through the process to complete the whole protocol required, which involves moxibustion during the appointments as well as moxibustion performed at home.
Would you like to visit our Brisbane Acupuncture clinic?
Our boutique acupuncture clinic Lang Acupuncture and Holistic Health is located in the convenient Inner Brisbane City suburb of Highgate Hill. The clinic has an interest in women's Health, fertility and pregnancy support. Clients at our clinic come from all over Brisbane and surrounding suburbs including, Woolloongabba, Brisbane City, South Brisbane, Annerley, Newstead, New Farm, West End, Fairfield, Yeronga.
References
Betts, D. (2006). The Essential Guide to Acupuncture in Pregnancy & Childbirth. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
Deadman, P., Al-Khafaji, M. & Baker, K. (2007). A Manual of Acupuncture, 2nd Ed., Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
Coyle, M., Smith, C. & Peat, B. (2023). Cephalic Version by Moxibustion for Breech Presentation (Review). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 1-74. https://10.1002/14651858.CD003928.pub4.OI
Zhang, Q., Yue, J., Liu, M., Sun, Z., Sun, Q., Han, C., Wang, D. (2013). Moxibustion for the Correction of Nonvertex Presentation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 1-10, 2013. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/241027
