The secrets of having a comfortable pregnancy and a smooth delivery – using Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine

Preparing for Birth Day

Receiving acupuncture treatments during the final trimester of pregnancy can help prepare the body for a smoother labor. Many studies have shown that women who begin weekly acupuncture sessions from week 35 or 36 are more likely to experience natural labor with fewer medical interventions compared to those who do not receive acupuncture. This is because acupuncture helps prepare the cervix and related muscles for labor.

What if the big day comes… and goes, but baby hasn’t arrived yet?

If you’ve passed your due date and your doctor or midwife is considering medical induction, you might want to try acupuncture induction first. This can stimulate labor without medication and may offer a gentler experience for both you and your baby. Acupuncture induction can take anywhere from 3 to 60 hours to be effective, and you may need daily sessions to establish labor.

Acupressure for Pain Relief During Labor

Having your birth partner apply acupressure during labor can help reduce pain. One helpful point is:

BL 32, located on your sacrum:

GB 21 on the trapezius muscle of your shoulder.

LR 3 on your foot between the big toe and second toe.

The labour tens machine can be helpful, you can hire them at your physiotherapists or online.

What Else Can Acupuncture Help With?

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can provide support for a wide range of conditions throughout pregnancy:

First Trimester

Morning sickness
Fatigue
Bleeding / risk of miscarriage

Second Trimester

Swelling
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Anxiety and insomnia

Third Trimester

Relaxation and labor preparation
Malpositioned baby (e.g., occiput posterior)
Labor induction

Throughout all stages of pregnancy, acupuncture may help with various types of pain, including lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and pelvic discomfort.

Postpartum Support