I’m pregnant and suffering from constipation, a couple of days can go by without me having a movement.When I do go it’s quite painful and I’ve ended with piles. Is there anything you could recommend.”

Anon, Berks

We look at two approaches from Reflexologist Miranda Boulton and Acupuncturist Sandra O’Hagan

Reflexology: Miranda Boulton (IIR, MAR)

Reflexology can be very effective when helping with digestive problems.  It both stimulates and relaxes the body by working on the corresponding points in the feet.  This strong massage prompts the body to naturally heal itself, releasing tension and toxins.

The digestive system is worked thoroughly.  This stimulates the body to release any built up waste and calms the system, which helps it work more effectively.   Clients often get stomach movements and bowel reactions during or soon after a treatment.  The spine and lower back are also important to work thoroughly as the nerves that serve the small intestine, large intestine, and rectum branch out of the base of the spine.   The solar plexus must also be worked to release tension physically and emotionally.

Reflexology takes into account the whole person and in my experience can be of great help with constipation and general well being when used regularly in conjunction with a good balanced diet, lots of water and exercise.

Miranda is a fully qualified Refloxogist. She works at The Healthy Living Centre, Islington. Tel 0207 704 6900.

Acupuncture: Sandra O’Hagan (M.B.Ac.C, Lic.Ac)

Constipation is a common condition during pregnancy due to the relaxation of plain muscle by the hormone progesterone; this causes a slowing down and sluggishness in the colon.  Acupuncture points to moisten the bowel and strengthen its energy are often used and if there are signs of heat, acupuncture points that remove heat are used.

Chinese Herbal Medicine alongside acupuncture is sometimes necessary with stubborn constipation.  Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lining of the anus.  They can be external (occur close to anal opening), internal (higher up in the anal canal) or prolapsing haemorrhoids (protruding outside the anus).

Hormonal changes in pregnancy can affect the veins and cause them to swell.  Straining to pass a stool can cause haemorrhoids therefore, it is important to relieve the constipation in order to heal the haemorrhoids.  Acupuncture points that clear heat, reduce swelling and pain are used to treat this condition, and sometimes an external herbal haemorrhoid cream would be given.  Chinese Herbal Medicine is very effective and safe in the treatment of so many conditions when administered by a fully qualified Chinese Herbalist.

For a list of fully qualified and insured members contact, either www.acupuncture.org.uk (British Acupuncture Council) and www.rchm.co.uk (Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine).

Sandra O’Hagan BA, LicOHM, MBAcC, Lic.Ac.

Sandra is a fully qualified Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist.  She practices in Central London and Richmond.

Mobile: 07932 453 456  and email:sandradohagan@gmail.com