South Coast Acupuncture and Herbs owner Amber Pickering discovered the power of acupuncture and Chinese herbs in her early 20s and it has been a journey of discovery ever since.

Amber's first career was in corporate events and she returned to University in her early 30s to study a Bachelor of Health Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine and established a clinic in Kiama in 2020. 

“That [the clinic] was doing really well and I loved it, but like all small businesses hit the slow with COVID.”

During the pandemic, Amber commuted to and from Sydney to take up another role at an Acupuncture Pregnancy and Fertility where she learnt about fertility and pregnancy acupuncture from a lady who herself was a scientist and then went onto study Chinese medicine.

“Her clinic was established 16 years ago and, in the beginning, primarily worked alongside IVF doctors or specialists,” she said. 

“Optimising egg quality and also supporting implantation after and during the IVF cycle.

“Now they also have a set of protocols for men and women who are trying to conceive naturally and also women who are already pregnant and need help addressing side effects such as nausea or fatigue, high blood pressure, heartburn and back pain.”

University of Melbourne published findings earlier this year that states “acupuncture may increase blood flow to reproductive organs including the lining of the uterus (endometrium) and the ovaries”.

Amber explains: “A major thing is to reduce stress because these are people who want to be parents and the whole process of IVF or trying to conceive after many attempts becomes very stressful. 

“A lot of it is just preparing the mind and body.”

Amber has recently re-opened her clinic in Kiama Downs and is happy to see some of her old clients and is looking forward to meeting new ones.

“I have gained a lot of experience in treating musculoskeletal conditions, sports injuries, fertility and pregnancy acupuncture, general wellbeing and from my own personal experience, stress and anxiety,” Amber added.

“I accept all health funds for rebates and for some health funds, the extras reset at the end of the year.”

For everyone towards the end of the year who is fatigued and searching for rejuvenation - South Coast Acupuncture and Herbs has the experience to help.

“It’s a good time to reset for the new year,” she said. 

“This time of year is quite a busy and stressful time of year so acupuncture and cupping is very good for removing toxins from the body. It also promotes blood and Qi circulation to the whole body."

For more information on South Coast Acupuncture and Herbs check out the clinic on instagram - @South.CoastAcupuncture, Facebook or call her on 0424 635 245.

The clinic is located at Shop 7, 11-13 Johnson St, Kiama Downs and is open from 9:30am - 6pm Monday to Fridays and 9am - 2pm on Saturdays. 

Please note - this is paid content