About the Association of Perinatal Naturopathic Doctors
Naturopathic medicine is a primary health care profession, which focuses on prevention and uses natural methods to promote healing.
Registered naturopathic doctors are required to complete three years of pre-medical studies at a recognized university followed by four years of full-time naturopathic training at an approved college. After graduation, they must pass rigorous regulatory board examinations that are standardized across North America. There are only two recognized schools in Canada, The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto and Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in Vancouver.
Naturopathic doctors examine, diagnose and treat patients with programs tailored to each individual and their health conditions. NDs subscribe to a system of medicine that is based on the principle of vis medicatrix naturae, the healing power of nature. It is a holistic approach that attends to the inter-relationship between physiological, structural, environmental, social and spiritual factors and their ability to influence our health both positively and negatively. They may use a combination of clinical nutrition, botanical (herbal) medicine, homeopathic medicine, physical treatments, acupuncture and Asian medicine, and lifestyle counseling to stimulate the body’s self-healing abilities. The treatment is individualized and usually focuses on the underlying causes of illness rather than the symptoms, often eliminating the need for long term medical care or prescription drugs.
A Perinatal Naturopath is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine that has further developed his or her interest in providing care to women and their families throughout preconception, pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period. APND members offer diverse clinical experience and training in dealing with fertility issues, pregnancy care, labour discomforts, postpartum, and pediatric support. Additionally, Perinatal ND’s can work with a woman’s primary clinical caregiver (RE, RM, MD, OB) in situations that require intervention such as IVF, breech presentation, post-dates induction, and breastfeeding concerns. In Ontario, registered naturopathic doctors are licensed and regulated by the Board of Drugless Practitioners – Naturopathy. Visits with a Naturopathic Doctor are covered by most extended health care plans.