Acupuncture can play an important part in preparing you for birth. Research suggests that regular treatment in your final weeks can shorten labour (Debra Betts, 2011). If you’re overdue, acupuncture and acupressure can support natural induction and pain relief, both in clinic and at home.

Labour preparation

Midwife-led research in New Zealand suggests that weekly acupuncture from 36 weeks can increase the chance of a spontaneous, natural and efficient labour. The treatment helps prepare the cervix and pelvis for labour, which can mean a shorter active labour and fewer interventions.

Natural induction

Research suggests acupuncture can help support natural induction, and it’s regarded as safe in a “normal” pregnancy after 38 weeks. At this stage, treatment works to encourage the cervix to dilate.

The conditions behind labour starting are complex. Acupuncture can help stimulate contractions, but it can’t guarantee that labour will progress efficiently, and as with any therapy there are no guarantees. Treatment can be as often as daily and is tailored to you, for example if your cervix hasn’t ripened or your contractions have stopped.

Acupressure before a medical induction

If your midwife has advised that you need a medical induction, acupressure can begin three days beforehand. The aim is to help establish contractions and encourage the cervix to dilate. Even if labour doesn’t start by itself, midwives report that the cervix is often more favourable after acupressure, with a better chance of getting through the induction with minimal intervention.

Pain relief during labour

Studies suggest acupuncture and acupressure may help relieve pain during labour. Jo is happy to teach acupressure techniques to couples in a joint session.

Please note: Jo is not currently taking new patients. Existing clients can book through the link below. If you’d like to know about Jo’s retreats instead, you can find them here.