Pregnancy is an incredible, joyful and often challenging phase of life for women and their partners. Faced with an increasing amount of information about traditional and integrative approaches, many women find themselves overwhelmed and confused about fertility methods, the stages of pregnancy, how to take care of their body and mind before, during and after pregnancy.
During September, New Leaf Community Markets is hosting a series of free or low cost presentations and classes on fertility and the healthy pregnancy. A diverse group of local healthcare practitioners who specialize in women's health will share their knowledge and offer practical information. These healthcare professionals will present a wide range of treatment options, from the best of conventional medical care to safe and effective natural therapies. Heidi Murkoff, author of "What to Expect When You're Expecting," notes in her latest edition (2008) that use of these natural therapies, including nutrition for general well-being, acupuncture for infertility and herbal therapies like ginger for morning sickness, are on the rise, and are increasingly being integrated into women's obstetrical care.
"Integrative healthcare, meaning patients having access to the best of all types of medicine, helps patients feel empowered and, ultimately, more involved in their own care. This is especially important when a woman is pregnant," said Naturopathic Doctor, Aimée Gould Shunney, who will be presenting in two of the educational events. "When I was pregnant, I had more questions than I had ever had before -- from diapers, doulas, vaccinations, and stretch marks to the birth. Only when I surrounded myself with a group of trusted practitioners from different disciplines, did I feel like I was getting the full story, and could move forward comfortably in the incredible process that was taking place," she said.
The classes will be held in the community classroom at the Westside New Leaf store at 1101 Fair Avenue, Santa Cruz. Space is limited; those interested should register two business days in advance at www.newleaf.com or call 831-466-9060 ext 126.
Natural Fertility Awareness Methods
Monday, September 14, 6:30pm-8pm, $5. For women, men and couples who are thinking about or trying to conceive. Acupuncturist Maureen Rozenn will talk about natural methods to boost fertility including dietary and lifestyle changes, cycle charting and ovulation prediction methods.
Delivery, Recovery and Infant Stages of Pregnancy with Homeopathy
Tuesday, September 22, 7pm-8:30pm, free. Homeopathic practitioners Maria Thomas, CCH, and Helena Roberts, CCH, will discuss the use of homeopathic remedies for pregnancy, labor, and newborns.
Your Healthy Pregnancy with Naturopathic Doctor Aimée Shunney
Wednesday, September 23, 6pm-8pm, $25. Naturopathic Doctor Aimée Shunney will discuss ways to keep strong and healthy during pregnancy, while enhancing labor and post-partum outcomes for mother and baby. Topics include how to manage common complaints of pregnancy, drug therapies, hormones, herbal medicine, nutritional supplements and dietary and lifestyle changes.
Fertility Enhancement with Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Monday, September 28, 6:30pm-8pm, $5. Chinese medicine has a long and rich history of treating infertility. As a clinician and researcher in fertility, Acupuncturist Maureen Rozenn has a wide breath of experience. She will how discuss how acupuncture, herbal medicinals, dietary and lifestyle shifts can help women conceive.
For more information about community education at New Leaf Community Markets, visit www.newleaf.com.