Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves the use of heat to stimulate specific points on the body. It is believed to improve circulation, relieve pain, and promote healing. One area where moxibustion has been studied for its potential benefits is in the treatment of breech babies, or fetuses that are positioned with their feet or buttocks down in the womb instead of head down.
There have been several studies conducted on the use of moxibustion to turn breech babies into a head-down position. One randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that moxibustion was more effective than standard care alone in turning breech babies. The study included 84 women with singleton breech pregnancies between 32 and 41 weeks of gestation. The women were randomly assigned to receive either moxibustion plus standard care or standard care alone. The researchers found that the success rate for turning the baby to a head-down position was significantly higher in the moxibustion group (58.3%) compared to the control group (23.8%).
Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine also found that moxibustion was effective in turning breech babies. This study included 60 women with singleton breech pregnancies between 36 and 40 weeks of gestation. The women were randomly assigned to receive either moxibustion or a sham treatment. The researchers found that the success rate for turning the baby to a head-down position was significantly higher in the moxibustion group (71.4%) compared to the sham group (20%).
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine also found that moxibustion was effective in turning breech babies. The review included nine randomized controlled trials with a total of 699 women. The researchers found that the success rate for turning the baby to a head-down position was significantly higher in the moxibustion group (52.4%) compared to the control group (26.9%).
While these studies suggest that moxibustion may be effective in turning breech babies, more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and to determine the most effective protocols for its use. It is important to note that moxibustion should only be performed by a trained practitioner, and pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before trying any new therapies.
