If your due date is approaching and you’re considering acupuncture to help induce labour, you likely have questions. Below, we dive into the details and address some of the most frequently asked questions about this method.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture in North Fitzroy, is an ancient practice that uses thin needles inserted at specific points on along the body’s energy channels. These needles play a crucial role in regulating the flow of Qi (energy, life force), enhancing blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting pain relief. This stimulation releases chemicals in the brain, spinal cord, and muscles, promoting relaxation and balance.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Research on acupuncture safety is limited, but available studies suggest that when performed correctly, acupuncture during pregnancy has very few adverse effects (Park et al., 2014)
Potential side effects may include:
- Soreness
- Redness or mild bleeding at insertion sites
- Bruising (less common)
- Infection (rare with proper hygiene)
- Injury from improper needle placement
To ensure safety, always choose a registered and experienced acupuncturist familiar with pregnancy care. The common risks include minor soreness, redness, or bruising at the needle sites, as well as a small chance of infection or injury if the needles are placed too deeply.
When Should You Start Acupuncture for Labour?
Starting acupuncture in the month leading up to your due date is ideal. Treatments are typically scheduled as a series, allowing the benefits to build gradually and effectively to prepare your body for labour (Lyttleton, 2013).
Sessions often focus on:
- Cervical ripening: Softening, thinning, and relaxing the cervix to ease its transition from being closed to dilated and ready for birth.
- Relieving tension and pain: Easing discomfort in the pelvis and lower back, while relaxing muscles.
- Calming the mind: Helping to reduce anxiety about childbirth and the transition into motherhood.
Your practitioner will carefully evaluate your overall health, address any medical concerns, and consider potential complications to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture needles are much thinner than standard medical needles and typically cause little to no pain when inserted. You might feel temporary soreness or mild discomfort, which usually resolves within 24 hours.
Some points may feel more sensitive than others, and it’s possible to experience light bruising, though this is less common. Your acupuncturist will discuss any potential discomfort with you during your session.
Is Acupuncture Effective for Inducing Labour?
The effectiveness of acupuncture for labour induction varies. While some women swear by it, others may not notice a direct impact.
It’s important to understand that acupuncture doesn’t “force” labour to begin. Instead, it can assist with cervical ripening, encouraging contractions, releasing energy blockages, and supporting your body to transition naturally into labour. Gribel et al. (2011) found that there were fewer caesarean deliveries and obstetric complications when acupuncture was used to induce labour.
The term “induction” might not be entirely accurate—acupuncture supports the natural unfolding of the process rather than triggering labour on demand.
How Long Does It Take for Acupuncture to Induce Labour?
The timeframe for labour to begin after acupuncture varies widely. Factors such as your baby’s readiness and your body’s progress toward labour play significant roles.
Like with any natural induction method, it’s challenging to pinpoint whether acupuncture directly triggers labour or aligns with your body’s existing timeline.
By understanding how acupuncture supports your body, you can make an informed decision about incorporating it into your labour preparation plan. Always consult your healthcare provider and work with a registered practitioner to ensure a safe and beneficial experience.
Louisa Dalla-Riva
Louisa is a graduate of the Southern School of Natural Therapies (Torrens University) and holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine). Louisa also holds diplomas in Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies, Remedial Massage, and Holistic Counselling. She is registered with both the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). LEARN MORE
References
Gribel, G. P. C., Coca-Velarde, L. G., & Moreira de Sá, R. A. (2011). Electroacupuncture for cervical ripening prior to labor induction: a randomized clinical trial. Archives of
Gynecology and Obstetrics, 283(6), 1233–1238. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-010-1526-x
Lyttleton, J. (2013). The treatment of infertility with Chinese medicine. Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
Park, J., Sohn, Y., White, A. R., & Lee, H. (2014). The Safety of Acupuncture during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review. Acupuncture in Medicine, 32(3), 257–266. https://doi.org/10.1136/acupmed-2013-010480
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