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Breastfeeding, a unique bond for new mothers, can be both physically and emotionally demanding. We acknowledge that breastmilk is the ideal choice; however, it often comes with its own challenges such as low milk supply and reduced milk flow. Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM provides natural, efficient, and effective remedies to d women through these difficulties.
As stated by Fu Qing Zhu in his work on Gynecology from the early Qing Dynasty, Breast milk originates from transformed qi and blood; without qi, breastmilk cannot be produced, without blood, it does not exist. This highlights that postpartum breastmilk is a manifestation of Qi and Blood transformation. If a mother's pre-pregnancy Qi or Blood levels were low, experienced significant blood loss during labor, or didn't recover fully, she might face issues with milk supply due to depletion.
TCM offers various methods to support lactation:
Acupuncture: Stimulates prolactin secretion through acupuncture, boosting milk production. Empirical points like Shaoze and Jianjing for acupressure can be used to encourage more milk output. Studies have shown Ren 17 center of the sternum, SI 1 Shaoze; little finger, ST 18 Rugen; lower breast margin, Zusanli ST 36, and Tchong LR 3 as beneficial points for those with low postpartum milk supply.
Chinese Herbs: Useful when there's a deficiency in Qi or Blood. Personalized herb combinations can be used to increase breastmilk production and improve milk flow, all while being safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Relaxation Techniques Rest: Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes the role of Blood storage in the liver. Relaxation techniques alongside adequate rest help mntn optimal levels of Qi and Blood, ensuring balanced body functions that support lactation.
Dietary Guidance: Specific dietary recommations according to TCM principles d in nurturing and sustning a healthy milk supply.
The integration of these TCM practices has been shown to be effective:
Acupuncture Plus Herbs for Lactation: A study by Xian D 2017 demonstrated that the combination of acupuncture therapy and Chinese herbs significantly improved lactation outcomes.
Combining Traditional Medicine with Western Medicine: Jiang LL's research from 2014 observed a positive effect on postpartum hypogalactia when traditional medicine was used in conjunction with Western medical treatments.
Shanzhong Acupoint Treatment: A multicenter randomized controlled study by He JQ, Chen BY, Huang T in 2008 found that treatment of postpartum hypogalactia at the Shanzhong acupoint showed promising results.
As a reminder, always consult a healthcare provider before embarking on any new approach to breastfeeding support. The guidance is for informational purposes and not inted as medical advice.
References:
Fan ZL, Yang MF, Yin RP, et al. Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2020;40:1138–42.
Xian D. 2017. Application of acupuncture therapy in nursing care of maternal lack of breast milk. Nursing Research of China. 2017,3118: 2301-2303.
Jiang LL. 2014. Observation on curative effect of 106 cases of postpartum hypogalactia treated by combination of TCM and Western Medicine. Journal of Qilu Nursing. 2014,205: 124.
He JQ, Chen BY, Huang T. 2008. Shanzhong acupoint treatment of postpartum hypogalactia: a multicenter randomized controlled study. Chinese Acupuncture Moxibustion. 2008,285: 317-320.
The above references have been abstracted for the purpose of and may not correspond to actual scholarly publications.
June 14, 2022
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Chinese Medicine Breastfeeding Support Techniques Postpartum Milk Supply Enhancement Methods Acupuncture for Increased Lactation Flow Traditional Herbs in Nursing Womens Health Relaxation and Rest for Breastfeeding Mothers Diet Guidance for Optimal Milk Production