COLUMN: Native plant turns fate of breech pregnancy

http://www.citizen-times.com/cache/article/wnchealth/73255.shtml

By SPECIAL TO CITIZEN-TIMES
Jan. 3, 2005 6:25 p.m.
The cesarean rate for diagnosed breech presentations rose from 12
percent in 1970 to more than 95 percent today.

A fetus that is in a breech position has it s head at the top of the
uterus instead of pointing down against the cervix, which creates
complications during delivery. For women who are planning on having
a vaginal birth, this is a shocking statistic.

The trend began in 1959 when Dr. Ralph Wright called for mandatory
cesareans for women with a breech diagnosis. The move towards
mandatory cesareans for breech is affecting the clinical training of
obstetricians and midwives and fewer are having the chance to
witness a vaginal breech birth. Coupled with the threat from
malpractice insurance companies to not provide coverage for
hospitals that permit planned vaginal breech births, the clinical
skill is in jeopardy.

Acupuncturists are turning fate around for women with a breech
diagnosis. A common plant found in the mountains and abandoned plots
around North Carolina is the tool of choice. The plant is called
Artemisia vulgaris and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine
for thousands of years to stimulate acupuncture points with heat.
The plant is dried and repeatedly ground and sifted until it forms
into a soft, golden fluff called moxa. Moxa is burned at a safe
distance from the skin to gently stimulate selected acupuncture
points. For women with a breech diagnosis, the point chosen is
called Zhi Yin (Reaching Yin) and is found on the outside edge of
the little toe.

In 1998, JAMA published a study lead by Dr. Cardini which
demonstrated that moxibustion applied to Zhi Yin for 1-2 weeks
beginning at the 33rd week of pregnancy resulted in the fetus
turning head first after treatment and at delivery. Cardini's group
demonstrated over a 75 percent success using the moxa technique.
Acupuncture is such a safe and effective treatment women are
frequently utilizing acupuncture during pregnancy. Acupuncture can
resolve muscular pain that occurs during pregnancy and is a
treatment of choice for a mother concerned about taking medications.

Women with severe morning sickness are also finding that the
holistic approach of acupuncture is the best approach. Incorporating
breathing and meditation exercises along with acupuncture treatment,
an expectant mother with morning sickness can keep food down and
nourish her and her baby's body.

Induction of labor is also performed with acupuncture. When using
acupuncture to induce labor, contractions increase gradually which
gives the mother's body time to safely transition into active labor.

The new age of medicine has brought a tremendous wealth of skills
and knowledge both old and new. As science moves forward with new
medical breakthroughs it is also important to keep old methods of
effective procedures alive. A medical community that thoughtfully
integrates innovation with antiquity will have the resources
available to meet the future's healthcare needs.

Joshua Herr M.S., L.Ac., is currently a provider at the Blue Ridge
Acupuncture Clinic. He is a graduate of Bastyr University and now
works at the Blue Ridge Acupuncture Clinic. He studied in Seoul,
Korea, volunteered at a public health clinic and had a private
practice in Seattle.