What Are The Alternative Health Options for Pregnancy?

There are alternative health options for pregnant women and as pregnancy is a natural state, many women would rather turn to natural methods of health care to deal with the issues of a normal pregnancy than to use more modern medical practices. Some women look for a holistic approach to their entire pregnancy, while others only replace certain aspects of pregnancy care with alternative health methods. There are many alternative health solutions available for pregnant women, depending on the type of care they choose for themselves.

Alternative Health Practitioners

Rather than using an obstetrician to handle their pregnancy, more women are visiting alternative health practitioners to handle their regular pregnancy care. Midwives have extensive medical training, though many concentrate in alternative health options, rather than the invasive medical care that may be received at a medical doctor. They may focus their clientele on those who wish to have homebirths or they could be affiliated with a hospital, attending to the births of their clients in a clinical setting. Some midwives house their practice with an obstetrician, giving their clients an option, should further care be needed.

Using alternative health services through a midwife is perfectly acceptable for most pregnancies. Women with high-risk situations or unusual circumstances may be better served by a specialist or obstetrician. The most important thing to remember when choosing health care for pregnancy is to use the most desirable option that will provide a safe and positive outcome for both mother and baby.

Supplements, Vitamins and Nutrition

Nutrition is a very important aspect of alternative health, particularly during pregnancy. Assuring that the diet of a pregnant woman includes the essential vitamins and minerals to assure the health of the baby and sustain that of the mother is crucial. There are many herbal supplements that can be used, along with standard prenatal vitamins to complement the healthy diet that is prescribed by any health care practitioner. However, before using any type of supplement, it is important to consult with an alternative health care provider, as some herbs are unsafe for use during pregnancy.

Dealing With Pregnancy Symptoms Through Alternative Health Care

There are several symptoms during pregnancy that can be treated with alternative methods. There are herbal remedies for morning sickness that have made the early months of pregnancy bearable for many pregnant women. There are various herbal teas used for this symptom. Others have used herbs to deal with leg cramps and other uncomfortable pregnancy side effects. There are also herbs and supplements that will reduce stress and anxiety. Keep in mind when considering herbal supplements that some are not recommended for pregnant women. Be sure to clear herbal remedies with a health care professional before using them.

Some women find that massage and aromatherapy are helpful during pregnancy. Many of the common symptoms of pregnancy can be relieved through massage. During pregnancy, massage sessions should only be performed by professionals that have been trained to do work with expectant mothers, as some general massage techniques should be avoided. Aromatherapy can be helpful for relaxation, however during the early months of pregnancy it may be less pleasant, as senses are heightened and scents sometimes create nausea.

Complementary and Alternative Health Care for Labor and Delivery

Many women prefer to use natural health techniques during labor and delivery, rather than have medicated, monitored births. Meditation and hypnotherapy are common alternative methods to pain control that are often seen even in hospital settings. These may be used alone or with other forms of medical intervention, as necessary. Those who wish to forego all standard medical practices during the birth of their baby can choose a holistic birthing center or a homebirth. These births are attended by midwives, who can make the determination whether further care is necessary, while handling the birth itself without interference by modern medical practices.

While there have been many advancements in the medical practice of obstetrics, for many women, alternative health options are the preferred standard for pregnancy and birth. Using these alternative health methods are perfectly acceptable, there are some instances in which further care is necessary for the safety of both mother and baby. Women should be evaluated by a doctor or midwife regularly throughout their pregnancy to determine if alternative health practices are a wise choice for them and their unborn child.