Traditional Chinese Medicine

This dates back thousands of years and is a holistic method of healing. Dr Alan Lin from the BMS Acupuncture Clinic in Westville, Durban, explains, "After birth, the liver and the uterus are in a low energy state. According to Chinese medicine principles, we say that this is a liver energy deficiency and it causes depression. So by increasing the energy in the liver and kidney meridians, it will help to balance the hormone so the person can become calm again." This can be done through acupuncture where thin hair-like needles are inserted at certain points on the hands, legs and sometimes on the stomach, to stimulate and influence the flow of energy, correcting any imbalances. Acupuncture sessions are between 30 and 40 minutes long and thereafter, traditional Chinese herbal medicines like Relaxed Wanderer and Calm Shen are  also prescribed. On average, Dr Lin says, severe PND can be treated successfully in 10 sessions over a period of five weeks. It doesn't affect other treatments or interfere with lactation.

By Miriam Akabor

Craniosacral therapy

birth, baby, essential oils, aromatherapy, postnatal depression, homeopathy, ayurvedic medicine, herbal medicine and dietary supplements