Homeopathy for new moms and babes
Homeopathy is one of the best ways to treat illnesses and discomfort in pregnancy and early childhood. Louïne van der Vyver and Karin Steyn tell us more...
DR JANA MOSTERT, a Johannesburgbased homeopath with a special interest in healthcare during pregnancy, labour, birth and postpartum, says homeopathy is a natural way of healing and was developed more than 200 years ago as an attempt to treat people more gently. It’s safe to use in pregnancy, doesn’t cause any deformities in the developing foetus, and has no side effects for mother or baby. Dr Mostert says homeopathic remedies work extremely well for a variety of pregnancy-related experiences, such as: nausea and vomiting swelling depression and anxiety digestive issues and heartburn. There are even remedies that can be
taken for babies in breech presentation, if given early enough and before baby is engaged. During labour and birth there are remedies to: strengthen surges manage anxiety aid in relieving labour pains. Postpartum adjustment may also be assisted with homeopathic remedies, such as: soothing aching muscles relieving symptoms of postnatal depression stimulating breastmilk for teething pains and colic in babies bringing down fevers and the reduction of symptoms developing from vaccination. WHERE CAN I FIND HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES? Although it’s possible to buy general over-the-counter homeopathic remedies, Dr Mostert advises to rather make an appointment with your homeopath where possible. “Each person’s expression and experience of an illness will be individual, and so too the remedy that is designed for you. Remedies are worked out to take into account the individual’s experience of the illness, the personality and behaviour of the individual as well as general sensitivities.” WHAT ARE CONSTITUTIONAL REMEDIES AND HOW DO THEY HELP? Constitutional remedies are designed for the individual and can help the patient to be as balanced as they can possibly be. With good support, the body can frequently heal itself. Constitutional remedies enhance immunity in order for mother or baby not to get sick as often. They feel emotionally better and generally have more energy. Only a homeopath can offer you a constitutional remedy after careful examination. YP