Homoeopathy: 2. In pregnancy and for the under-fives

A correctly prescribed constitutional homoeopathic remedy can increase well-being in the preconceptual period. For infertility, orthodox investigations are essential but where tests are normal then homoeopathic treatment of both pariners can maximise their health and may improve the chances of conception. Homoeopathic remedies can be effective for morning sickness and before and during labour. Arnica is helpful for internal and external bruising of both mother and newborn infant. Some problems of breast feeding respond to the homoeopathic remedy Lac-caninum. There is no harm in trying homoeopathy initially for postnatal depression, although severe cases will need orthodox medication. In most conditions there is time to try the holistic stimulus of a homoeopathic remedy to attempt to persuade the body to heal itself. This is a very different principle from the so-called enlightened attitude of some health professionals that there is no harm in trying homoeopathy when orthodox treatment can do no more for the patient. In babies, teething often responds to Chamomilla. The child's susceptibility to certain illnesses, eg recurrent tonsillitis, can be helped by a "whole-patient" homoeopathic remedy, although penicillin may be needed for acute attacks of tonsillitis. In chronic conditions of childhood such as eczema and asthma, homoeopathic doctors believe that correctly chosen remedies are often able to stimulate the body's innate healing ability, leading to an improvement.