Researcher forgets acupuncture in breech presentation

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14/12/2018 

Gynecologist in training Joost Velzel defended his dissertation on December 12 at the UvA on a study of two medications to facilitate the external rotation of a baby in breech position [1]. This medication is intended to reduce discomfort for the pregnant woman and decrease the number of cesarean sections.

The best option is fenoterol, a substance that relaxes the uterine muscle. Even then, the baby must be 'forcefully' moved out of the pelvis so it can turn. Additionally, the medication has severe side effects such as headaches, hot flashes, and palpitations, which according to Velzel 'only last ten minutes'.

Velzel wants to conduct further research on numbing the abdomen through an epidural, as done in America. This way, the turning doesn't hurt. However, an epidural is not without risks.

Indeed, Velzel mentions alternative methods that do not work, such as bubbles and tuning forks on the belly. Unfortunately, he forgets to mention the effective application of moxa on an acupuncture point on the little toe. In 2010, Dr. Ineke van den Berg, NVA acupuncturist, obtained her PhD, among other things, on research into this application for breech presentation. In her dissertation [2] The Contribution of Acupuncture and Moxibustion to Healthcare includes a meta-analysis on the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and safety of moxa for breech presentation. Chapter 9 contains the Dutch summary.

Scientific research and experience show that acupuncture significantly increases the chance of the baby turning. Acupuncture can thus prevent an invasive turning treatment and a caesarean section. No headaches, hot flashes, and palpitations! We think that deserves a spot in the newspaper!

[1] article AD dated 12-12-2018 -  [2] thesis The Contribution of Acupuncture and Moxibustion to Healthcare