Acupuncture & Moxa for Turning Breech Babies in Brighton & Hove

If you’ve been told your baby is breech, you may be wondering what your options are. As an experienced acupuncturist in Brighton & Hove, I regularly support pregnant women using a safe, gentle technique known as moxa treatment. Both my clinical experience and international studies suggest a high success rate in helping babies turn with this simple, natural approach.

What is Moxa and How Does It Work?

Moxa, or moxibustion, is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves burning a compressed herbal stick made from dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). The warmth is applied close to an acupuncture point on the little toe — no needles are needed at home.

This stimulation encourages movement of Qi (energy) through the body, warms the uterus, and helps create the conditions for a baby to move into the head-down position. The breech moxa protocol involves using the moxa stick for about 20 minutes on each foot daily, over 10 days.

What Happens in a Session?

At my Brighton & Hove acupuncture clinic, treatment usually begins with one appointment. During this session, I use acupuncture to support your overall wellbeing in pregnancy and then demonstrate the self-care moxa protocol. You’ll learn exactly how to do it safely and confidently at home.

Many women find the practice soothing — it becomes a daily ritual that not only supports their baby, but also offers a moment of calm connection during pregnancy.

When is the Best Time to Start?

Research suggests the optimal time for breech acupuncture and moxa treatment is around 34 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, babies still have enough room to move. Studies in Italy show that up to 50% of babies will have turned by 36 weeks with moxa.

Western medicine often advises waiting until later in pregnancy before attempting a manual procedure (external cephalic version, or ECV). From a Chinese medicine perspective, however, starting sooner is best — though it’s important not to feel discouraged if you’re already later than 34 weeks. I frequently treat women at 36, 37, and even 38 weeks in my clinic, and many still see success.

Will My Baby Turn Back?

One common question I hear is: “If my baby turns head-down, could they turn back to breech?”

New Zealand midwife and acupuncture specialist Debra Betts reports that when women do not complete the full 10-day protocol, babies occasionally return to breech. Her clinical experience — and mine — suggests that when the full course is followed, babies usually remain head-down.

Even if Baby Doesn’t Turn

Even in cases where babies don’t turn fully, acupuncture and moxa still provide benefits. I often see higher success rates with medical procedures such as ECV after women have completed the moxa protocol. The gentle stimulation seems to relax the uterine environment, making it easier for manual turning to succeed.

Research on Breech Acupuncture & Moxa

International research consistently shows that acupuncture and moxa for breech babies is safe, effective, and well-tolerated. In fact, in countries such as Italy, China, and New Zealand, maternity teams often recommend moxa as a first-line option.

Here in Brighton & Hove, more women are turning to acupuncture because it offers a natural, non-invasive choice before considering more medicalised procedures.

Why Choose My Brighton & Hove Clinic?

I have supported hundreds of women through pregnancy at my Brighton acupuncture practice. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping breech babies find the best position for birth. Women often arrive feeling anxious, but leave reassured, confident, and with a clear plan they can follow at home.

My clinic is welcoming, easy to reach from across Sussex, and dedicated to women’s health. Whether you’re 34 weeks or later, I would be delighted to support you with this safe, natural method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture for breech babies safe?
Yes. Acupuncture and moxa are safe in pregnancy when carried out by a qualified practitioner. The moxa is used externally, and no needles are required at home.

When should I start moxa treatment?
The best time to begin is around 34 weeks, but treatment can still be effective later.

How long does the protocol take?
About 20 minutes per foot, daily, for 10 days.

What if the baby doesn’t turn?
Even if your baby doesn’t turn with moxa, acupuncture may improve the chances of a successful external cephalic version.

Book Acupuncture for Breech Babies in Brighton & Hove

If your baby is breech, don’t wait until later in pregnancy to explore your options. Acupuncture and moxa are safe, natural, and effective ways to support your baby’s movement.