The Benefits of Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Acupuncture can be a gentle and effective approach to managing many of the common symptoms and discomforts women experience during pregnancy. This article explains the benefits of acupuncture during pregnancy and explores some of the main questions I’m often asked.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is used by Chinese medicine practitioners to restore the body to its natural, balanced state, and helps to promote physical and emotional well-being. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine sterile needles into specific points on the body to affect the flow of the body’s Qi (pronounced CHEE). It is believed that the body comprises of several channels or merdians in which Qi flows through. Each channel is connected to a vital organ. This internal network of channels and organs sustain the body’s ability to function. When all these functions take place harmoniously, the body is healthy and in balance. Therefore, by stimulating the Qi in the channels somehow signals to the body’s system what it needs to do to resolve the condition.

Benefits of Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Here are some of the main ways acupuncture can help during pregnancy:

·      Nausea and Vomiting: Often a first-trimester issue, acupuncture can help alleviate morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting.

·      Pain: Acupuncture can help relieve common pregnancy-related pains, such as lower back pain, sciatica, and hip discomfort.

·      Insomnia and Anxiety: As your hormones shift, anxiety and sleep issues are common; acupuncture can support relaxation, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.

·      Swelling: Acupuncture may help manage mild swelling (oedema) in the legs and feet.

·      Digestive Issues: Acupuncture can alleviate constipation, bloating, and heartburn.

·      Preparation for Labour: In the third trimester, acupuncture is sometimes used to help the body prepare for labour, particularly around 36–38 weeks, to encourage a smoother birth process.

Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, acupuncture is generally considered safe during pregnancy when performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner who understands prenatal care and which acupuncture points to avoid. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it safe and what to keep in mind:

1.     Trained Practitioner: Safety largely depends on the practitioner’s experience, especially with pregnant clients. Acupuncturists trained in prenatal care know how to avoid points that could potentially stimulate uterine contractions prematurely.

2.     Gentle Techniques: Acupuncturists use gentle techniques during pregnancy to avoid unnecessary stimulation and to promote relaxation.

3.     Points to Avoid: Some points, such as Spleen 6 (SP6), Large Intestine 4 (LI4), Bladder 60 (BL60), Bladder 67 (BL67), and Gallbladder 21 (GB21), are avoided or used cautiously during pregnancy because they may stimulate contractions or promote labour. These points are often only used near or at term to help prepare for labour, under professional supervision.

4.     Lower Abdomen and Lower Back Points: Points in the lower abdomen and low back are often avoided or used cautiously during early pregnancy.

When is the Best Time to Start Acupuncture During Pregnancy?

The best time to start acupuncture during pregnancy depends on your specific needs and the symptoms you're experiencing. Here’s a general timeline based on common pregnancy-related symptoms:

1.     First Trimester (Weeks 1–12):

·      Focus: Managing Nausea, Fatigue, and Anxiety.

·      When to Start: Many women begin acupuncture early in the first trimester, particularly if they experience morning sickness, fatigue, or heightened anxiety.

·      Frequency: Once a week or biweekly, depending on symptom severity. Acupuncture is generally safe in early pregnancy, with an experienced practitioner avoiding points that could stimulate uterine contractions.

2.     Second Trimester (Weeks 13–26):

·      Focus: Maintaining Energy and Addressing Body Aches.

·      When to Start: Some women pause during the second trimester if they’re feeling well, while others continue if they experience specific symptoms like back pain, sciatica, or insomnia.

·      Frequency: Once every two weeks or as needed, depending on symptoms. Acupuncture during this period can help with maintaining energy levels and reducing the common aches and pains that start as the baby grows.

3.     Third Trimester (Weeks 27–40):

·      Focus: Preparing for Labour, Managing Pain, Reducing Anxiety.

·      When to Start: Many women resume or increase acupuncture around 34–36 weeks to prepare for labour. Starting at this time can help optimize the body’s readiness for childbirth and ease some late-stage pregnancy symptoms like swelling, pelvic pain, and insomnia.

·      Frequency: Weekly treatments from 36 weeks onward can help prepare the body for labour, promote relaxation, and encourage optimal fetal positioning. Acupuncture can also be used for specific concerns like breech presentation or overdue pregnancy.

Summary of Timing

Early Pregnancy (Weeks 1–12): Begin if experiencing morning sickness, fatigue, or anxiety.

Middle Pregnancy (Weeks 13–26): Use as needed to manage pain or stress.

Late Pregnancy (Weeks 27–40): Weekly sessions from 36 weeks can help prepare for labour.

Moxibustion For Breech Pregnancy

Moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine technique involving the burning of mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near acupuncture points, is sometimes used during pregnancy for turning a breech baby. Moxibustion (often called moxa) is most often used around 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy to help encourage a breech baby to turn head-down. The primary point used is Bladder 67 (BL67), which is located on the outer edge of the pinky toe.

Although the mechanisms of moxa are not fully understood, moxa is thought to stimulate the uterus, increase fetal activity, and encourage the baby to turn head-down. Plus, the heat from the burning mugwort stick is thought to stimulate blood flow and Qi to the pelvic area, which might facilitate movement. Studies on moxa generally show low adverse effects when moxibustion is applied correctly. Mild side effects, if any, may include minor skin irritation or temporary discomfort from the heat.

Ideally, you want to start moxa between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. This window is often recommended because there is still enough room in the uterus for the baby to turn, and the risk of premature labour is lower than in later stages. In terms of frequency, typically, moxibustion is applied once or twice daily for about 15–20 minutes over 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the acupuncturist’s guidance and the healthcare provider’s approval. Always discuss with your OB/GYN or midwife before beginning moxibustion to ensure it fits your pregnancy care plan.

Acupuncture to Induce Labour

Acupuncture is sometimes used as a natural method to help stimulate labour, particularly when a woman is past her due date or if labour seems to be progressing slowly. It is believed to work by encouraging the body to release natural hormones, improving blood flow to the uterus, and helping relax muscles, which may support labour onset or progression. I recommend to start acupuncture treatment every second day from 40 weeks onwards, ideally allowing some time before any medical induction is scheduled. In some cases, only one treatment may be required, however more commonly two or three treatments are required to sustain contractions. This is dependent on factors such as how far beyond term the pregnancy is and the health and readiness of the mother and baby. Everyone is different in terms of how they respond to treatment and no two pregnancies are ever the same.

Are There Any Side Effects of Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but some common side effects are:

·      Bleeding or Bruising at Needle Sites: Pregnant women may experience increased blood flow and sensitivity, making bruising or bleeding at the needle insertion points slightly more likely than usual.

·      Dizziness or Fainting: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make women more prone to dizziness, particularly when lying down for extended periods. Acupuncture, which influences blood circulation and relaxation, may increase the likelihood of feeling faint.

·      Needle Sensitivity or Discomfort: Pregnant women may be more sensitive to touch and pressure due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes, which can sometimes make acupuncture feel more intense than usual.

·      Overstimulation or Fatigue: Some women may feel overly stimulated or exhausted after acupuncture, especially if the treatment session is too intense or lasts too long. Pregnancy can heighten sensitivity to acupuncture’s effects, leading to fatigue if the session isn’t adjusted accordingly.

Acupuncture Tips for Pregnancy

Here are some practical tips for making the most of acupuncture sessions during pregnancy:

1.     Work with a Practitioner Who Specialises in Prenatal Acupuncture: Not all acupuncturists have training in prenatal care, so feel free to ask your acupuncturist about their experience with prenatal care, and consult with your OB/GYN, midwife or a trusted friend for recommendations.

2.     Stay Well-Hydrated and Eat Lightly Before Your Sessions: Pregnant women are often more prone to dizziness or light-headedness. Acupuncture sessions can intensify these sensations if you’re dehydrated or have low blood sugar. I recommend having a light snack an hour before your session and bring water to drink after your session.

3.     Listen to Your Body and Communicate with Your Practitioner: Acupuncture is meant to be a relaxing experience. If you feel uncomfortable, too warm, or if a certain point feels overly sensitive, let your practitioner know straightaway.

4.     Use Acupressure Points Between Sessions for Ongoing Relief: Certain acupressure points are easy to apply on your own or with a partner’s help and can relieve symptoms between sessions. Your acupuncturist can show you which acupressure points to use.

5.     Practice Self-Care After Acupuncture Sessions: Pregnancy makes your body more sensitive, so it’s essential to rest and stay hydrated after a session. Plan for some gentle, relaxing time after each session, avoid strenuous activities, and stay hydrated to maximize the treatment’s benefits.

Acupuncture can be a safe and supportive therapy throughout pregnancy. The key is to work with a qualified, prenatal-trained acupuncturist, start treatments based on your specific symptoms and pregnancy stage, and use home practices like acupressure for additional relief. Always consult your OB/GYN or midwife if you have any concerns, especially before beginning acupuncture in a high-risk pregnancy.