Homeopathy for Children, Babies and During Pregnancy
I realised towards the end of my training that I really enjoy working with children and therefore, have chosen to specialise in their treatment. I think it's because of their dynamic energy which seems to take to homeopathy really well and often, very quickly.
What I also find wonderful about treating children is that they are very accepting of homeopathy. If it helps them, they say so without concerning themselves too much about the why and how.
Common childhood ailments seen by homeopaths include recurrent infections such as ear infections, upper respiratory tract infections as well as acute diarrhoea and hay fever. I have a particular interest in children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADD, ADHD and Asperger's. For me, the child's symptoms are only part of their case and I will try to get to know them as much as possible to match them to an appropriate remedy.
For children who find it easy to communicate, they often enjoy having a session that is very much focused on them and what they are feeling both physically and emotionally.
For babies and children who are less open in their communication, my job is to observe them as much as possible as well as question the parent/carer to obtain the information I need.
In any event, I will ask the parent/carer questions about the pregnancy, delivery and how the child was as a baby, if this information is available. Anything that is clearly uncomfortable to discuss in front of the child will be discussed in a separate telephone conversation with the parent/carer.
I will sometimes prescribe Indigo Essences drops alongside a homeopathic remedy if I think it will benefit the patient. I am a big fan of these essences and discovered them when I was looking for something to support my son when he got very nervous before performing in school performances. They were created specifically for children and this is reflected in the words and designs that are used with these products.
Homeopathy in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a wonderful time to use homeopathy as it can help with common minor ailments such as morning sickness, heartburn, constipation and cramps for example. As pregnant women are often reluctant to use over-the-counter medication, it is useful to know that homeopathy is a safe and natural alternative that will not cause any side effects.
In addition, homeopathy can be used to help prepare the mother for birth both physically and emotionally. By treating the mother with homeopathy and stimulating her vitality, we are also benefiting the baby.
A pregnant woman can therefore come to me for constitutional treatment for herself, for treatment of minor ailments or if she prefers, she and her birthing partner can have a session in how homeopathy can be used during the birth and for healing afterwards. Helios, the homeopathic pharmacy produce a childbirth kit that contains 18 remedies that can be helpful for before, during and after childbirth. During this type of session I will explain how the kit can be used and highlight certain remedies that are key to support natural childbirth.