Pre-birth Acupuncture Treatments
Our Approach to Pre-birth Acupuncture Treatments
We recommend weekly pre-birth acupuncture treatments beginning at 31 weeks of pregnancy to help prepare the body for labor. Research shows that consistent acupuncture treatments help shorten the duration and intensity of labor! In these treatments, we focus on calming the mind and body. These treatments are not the same as labor induction. Acupuncture will not cause you to go into labor unless you are already in early labor. In that case, acupuncture can be used to promote contractions.
The week of your due date, we recommend three appointments to promote optimal conditions for delivery.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine standpoint, the treatments promote the free flow of qi and blood causing gradual cervical ripening, and also boost yang activity to promote contractions. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate various physiological responses. In the context of promoting labor, acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy to help induce labor or facilitate the progression of labor. However, it's important to note that while some studies suggest a potential benefit, the effectiveness of acupuncture in promoting labor is still a subject of ongoing research and debate.
Here are some ways in which acupuncture is believed to help gradually promote labor:
Stimulation of Acupoints:
Acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific acupoints that are thought to be connected to different parts of the body. Some acupoints are believed to influence uterine contractions and cervical ripening.
Release of Hormones:
Acupuncture may stimulate the release of certain hormones, such as oxytocin, which is responsible for stimulating uterine contractions. Oxytocin plays a key role in initiating and sustaining labor.
Relaxation and Stress Reduction:
Acupuncture sessions can promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety in pregnant individuals. High levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, can potentially interfere with the progression of labor. By promoting relaxation, acupuncture may help create a more conducive environment for labor to begin and progress.
Improved Blood Flow:
Acupuncture may enhance blood circulation to the pelvic area and the uterus, promoting cervical ripening and the delivery of nutrients to the uterine muscles.
Important!
Pregnant individuals considering acupuncture for labor promotion should consult with their healthcare provider before starting, and acupuncture should not be used as a sole method of labor induction, especially in cases where medical intervention may be necessary for the safety of the mother and baby.
Here Are Some Helpful Resources:
https://nicm.edu.au/news/research_shows_acupuncture_may_help_prepare