How Acupuncture Supports Pregnancy
Natural support for every stage of pregnancy
Pregnancy is one of the most profound transformations your body will ever go through. It’s a time of extraordinary change — physically, emotionally and hormonally — and while it’s often filled with joy, it can also bring discomfort, exhaustion or anxiety.
Acupuncture offers a gentle, natural way to support you through every trimester, helping ease common pregnancy symptoms, calm the mind and prepare your body for birth.
At my Brighton & Hove acupuncture clinic, I specialise in women’s health and have supported hundreds of women throughout pregnancy — from early nausea to late-stage preparation for labour and postnatal recovery.
How Acupuncture Supports You During Pregnancy
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, pregnancy is seen as a time when your Qi (vital energy) and Blood are deeply focused on nurturing new life. When that balance is disturbed, symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or aches can appear.
Acupuncture helps to restore harmony, support healthy circulation, and strengthen your body’s natural ability to adapt and thrive during pregnancy.
Acupuncture can help with:
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Morning sickness and nausea
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Fatigue and low energy
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Back, hip or pelvic pain
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Anxiety, mood changes and sleep issues
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Constipation or digestive discomfort
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Breech baby positioning
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Birth preparation and overdue pregnancy
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Recovery and hormonal balance post-birth
Every treatment is gentle and tailored to your stage of pregnancy, using points that are safe and specific to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture and Pregnancy
Is Acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is considered safe throughout pregnancy. I use only pregnancy-appropriate points and gentle techniques designed specifically for expectant mothers.
When should I start acupuncture?
You can begin at any stage. Early pregnancy treatments often focus on easing nausea and fatigue, while later sessions may support comfort, baby positioning (34 weeks is optimal) and birth preparation (from 36 weeks for prebirth routine treatement.)
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your needs. Some women come for a short series to address specific symptoms; others choose regular sessions throughout pregnancy for ongoing wellbeing.
Can acupuncture help prepare me for labour?
Yes. From around 36 weeks, acupuncture can help your body and mind prepare naturally for birth — encouraging relaxation and readiness without medical induction.
Can I have acupuncture after giving birth?
Absolutely. Postnatal acupuncture can help with fatigue, emotional changes, milk supply and recovery, supporting your body’s return to balance.
Curious about how acupuncture could support you through pregnancy?
What People Say About Acupuncture During Pregnancy With Jo
“I came to Jo when I was struggling with morning sickness and feeling completely wiped out in my first trimester. After just a few treatments, the nausea eased and I started to feel more like myself again. Jo’s calm energy and gentle approach made such a difference — it became the one hour a week where I could truly relax.” Charlotte, Brighton
“Jo supported me in the final weeks of pregnancy and I’m convinced her acupuncture helped prepare me for birth. Each session was so grounding and relaxing, and she gave me simple tips to use at home too. When labour started, I felt calm, confident and ready — and that’s exactly how I wanted it to be.” Sophie, Shoreham
