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Allergies and Pregnancy

Natural Remedies for Pregnant Women

By Teri Brown

Nothing is more depressing for chronic allergy sufferers than feeling another onset of allergy symptoms. For women who are living through some of the more uncomfortable symptoms of pregnancy such as morning sickness, swollen ankles or aching joints, an allergy attack can make life miserable. But how can one combat allergies without taking drugs that might harm the baby?

Dr. Cathleen London is a board certified family physician who uses both traditional and homeopathic treatments in her Boston, Mass.-based private practice. Her philosophy is based on treating the whole person, not just the person's symptoms.

"I believe that physicians need all the tools that are out there," says Dr. London. "Western, or allopathic, medicine has its limits. Numerous other folk medicines have had longstanding 'cures' that rely on herbs and nutrition. While more research data is needed, there is certainly enough anecdotal evidence that natural remedies are not to be ignored."

However, Dr. London understands exactly why pregnant women are often reluctant to use traditional medications to treat their allergy symptoms. "All medicines and herbs (with some exceptions) cross the placenta and can affect the fetus," says Dr. London. "Many of these are dangerous to the baby's development. Fetuses are especially sensitive because of their rapid development."

By using nutrition and nutritional supplements, however, pregnant women can safely treat many conditions they might otherwise have to suffer through, says Dr. London.

While she cautions against the indiscriminate use of herbs during pregnancy, she does believe that many allergy symptoms can be lessened using natural means. "Most herbs have not been studied for use in pregnancy (or breastfeeding) and could be quite dangerous," says Dr. London. "Our best friends for allergies are in the fruit and vegetable kingdom. These are nature's own antioxidants."

Want to see more?

• Acupuncture: Relief Right to the Point
• A Positive Adjustment: Is Chiropractic Care Right for You?
• The Right Touch: Massage for Prenatal Health and Comfort
• Talk about it!

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