Homeopathy for Pregnancy: Effective & Save

Many women in pregnancy hope to avoid using drug-based medications for the assorted concerns and complaints that can arise while both they and their babies grow and develop. Some women are concerned that any medications that they may take (for example ibuprofen for a headache) could cross the placenta and enter their baby's circulation. Although most over-the-counter medications are considered safe in pregnancy, there are few studies that demonstrate exactly how a developing baby's body responds to those medications. Herbal remedies similarly can cross the placenta, and not all are safe to take in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Certainly, before taking any medication or herbal preparation, you should consult with your doctor, midwife, pharmacist or naturopath to ensure you do what's best for you and your baby.

In a category all their own are homeopathic medicines. These remedies are minute doses (think less than one-hundredth of a microgram) of naturally occurring substances (plant, mineral, animal). Because of the incredibly small amount of "active" ingredient, homeopathic medicines work on a more subtle level, which makes them exceptionally safe for children, people on multiple medications, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Even better, homeopathic remedies are typically inexpensive, have a great "shelf-life," and cause virtually no "undesirable side effects."

For example, many women experience low back pain, hip pain and sensation of "heaviness" in their pelvic area. For these particular symptoms, the remedy Sepia can be very effective and bring relief in as little as one dose. The trick to having a homeopathic remedy work well is in deciding the right remedy to take. Naturopathic Doctors and homeopaths spend years learning how to find exactly the right remedy for their patients and clients. However, there are a number of great resources available at your local bookstore that can act as a guide for pregnant women and families. My favourite such book is written by Richard Moscowitz MD – "Homeopathic Medicines for Pregnancy and Childbirth." Other useful titles include "Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child" (Zand et. al.) and "The Family Guide to Homeopathy" (Dr. Andrew Lockie).

These guides allow people to learn more about homeopathy while providing easy to use references to connect symptoms and concerns to specific remedies. For pregnant women, and their children, homeopathic medicine provides a treatment option that is very safe, effective and worth exploring.