Moxa for a breech baby

What is moxa and how can acupuncture help turn my breech baby?

Moxa is made from the herb Artemisia vulgaris, commonly known as Mugwort. It is dried and rolled into a cigar like shape. One end is lit and held roughly 1 – 2 cms above the skin so a gentle yet significant heat is felt.

Moxibustion can be used anywhere on the body where warmth is needed, but for the purposes of turning a breech baby we focus on applying moxibustion to one specific point on the pinky toes. This point is known as “Bladder 67” or Zhiyin.

The moxa is used to heat this point for 20 minutes on each toe. Ten consecutive days of moxa treatment constitutes one course of breech turning moxibustion.

At Point Specifics, we use a combination of acupuncture and moxa to help encourage a breech baby to turn.

Jacinda selects acupuncture points on the arms and legs based on the woman’s other presenting signs and symptoms, her pulse and her tongue. (The acupuncture has a general focus on increasing and/or stimulating circulation to the uterus in an effort to encourage the baby to move).

She then shows how the woman can perform moxa treatment on herself, safely, at home for the next 10 days.

Moxa sticks and a detailed information sheet is given at the session so that moxibustion can begin right away at home.

Have more questions? We’re happy to help! Send us an email or phone with your questions now!