Herbs for a Healthy Pregnancy

1. Planning for Childbirth l
Preconception and Conception 2
Dealing with Infertility 5
2. Pregnancy 9
Monthly Progress The Fetus 9
Monthly Progress The Mother 11
Diet 14
Exercise 18
Massage 21
3. Easing the Discomforts of Pregnancy 23
Abdominal Pain 23
Allergies 24
Iron-Deficiency Anemia 25
Backache 27
Bladder and Kidney Problems 28
Breathlessness 29
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 29
Constipation 30
Edema Fluid Retention 31
Fainting and Low Blood Pressure 32
Fatigue and Emotional Upsets 33
Heartburn 34
Hemorrhoids 35
Hiatal Hernia 36
Insomnia 36
Leg Cramps 37
Morning Sickness 38
Sinusitus 40
Stress 41
Stretch Marks 42
Teeth and Gum Problems 44
Vaginal Yeast Infection 44
Varicose Veins 45
4. More Serious Conditions of Pregnancy 47
Ectopic Pregnancy 47
High Blood Pressure 48
Preeclampsia 49
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction SPD 50
Threatened Miscarriage 51
5. Childbirth 53
Preparing for Childbirth 53
Breech Babies 54
During Labor 55
Herbal Birthing Kit 58
6. After the Birth 61
Afterpains 62
Contraction of the Uterus 62
Perineum Problems 62
Postnatal Depression 63
The Shock of Parenthood 64
Tiredness 65
Stillbirth 66
7. Breast-Feeding 67
Preparing for Breast-Feeding 67
Engorgement 69
Insufficient Milk 69
Mastitis 70
Sore and Cracked Nipples 71
8. Easing Baby s Discomforts with Herbs 73
Colds 73
Colic 74
Cradle Cap 75
Diaper Rash 76
Eye Problems 76
Jaundice 77
Sleeplessness 78
Teething 79
Umbilical Care 79
Yeast Infection 80
9. Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy 81
10. Materia Medica 91
11. How to Prepare Herbal Remedies
Infusions 143
Decoctions 144
Combined Infusions and Decoctions 144
Infused Oils 145
Massage Oils 145
Compresses 146
Poultices 146
Tinctures 146
Buying and Storing Herbs 148
Herb Suppliers 149