What is homeopathy and how does it work?
Homeopathy has a mixed reception in UK medical circles: Some doctors see homeopathy as complementary to traditional medicine and may even practice themselves, others may dismiss it out of hand as nonsense. The 200-year-old practice is based on the concept of treating like with like in order to prompt the body's own healing processes into action and accelerate recovery. Homeopathy can be used in conjunction with other forms of alternative and traditional medicine, but it's not a replacement for medical attention in the case of a grave or acute medical condition.
When a holistic practitioner assesses a patient he or she takes into account not just the physical manifestations of illness, but also the patient's physical and emotional well-being to produce an overall picture of symptoms. Self-medication with homeopathy is possible, but if you're interested in trying it it's best to start by seeing a qualified practitioner who can guide you.
During labour, homeopathy may help you progress by relaxing you and relieving physical tensions, or by giving you a mental and emotional boost when the going gets tough.
When can I use homeopathy?
You can use homeopathy at any stage during labour and birth and you may want to change remedies to deal with new situations, physical pains and emotions as your labour progresses. There are remedies to help speed up contractions, relieve pressure, combat dizziness, reassure and calm, re-energise and so on.
Is homeopathy safe and how do I use it?
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Homeopathy is safe to use during pregnancy and labour as it uses low potency remedies with no side-effects. If you intend to self-prescribe for labour you may want to check the policies of your chosen birthing place first. If you're already experienced in self-prescribing by the time labour comes along and have consulted a practitioner specifically on remedies for labour then you will be able to self-prescribe in theory. In practice you may need to delegate responsibility for this to your birth partner as you'll have other things on your mind.
It may be the case that your medical team or midwife has experience of homeopathy, in which case they may be very supportive of your decision to use homeopathy but may prefer that you consult with them before taking any remedies during labour so that they know what you have taken.
Whenever you take any homeopathic remedy you should avoid food in the half-hour before and after and avoid strong substances such as mint toothpastes, mints and coffee. Which shouldn't present much of an issue during labour!
Where can I find out more?
The Society of Homeopaths can provide you with contact details for your local practitioners so that you can have an initial consultation. When you're comfortable with self-prescribing there are several books with specific recommendations for pregnancy and birth including Dr. Richard Moskowitz's Homeopathic Medicines for Pregnancy and Childbirth, North Atlantic Books (1992) and specific references in the very popular general pregnancy and baby care tome, Birth and Beyond by obsterician Dr. Yehudi Gordon.
