Pregnancy

About Pregnancy

• Why should I get Acupuncture during Pregnancy?
• Pregnancy and Postpartum Conditions Treated
• Is Acupuncture Safe during Pregnancy?
• Are Chinese Herbs Safe during Pregnancy?
• General Treatment Plan for Pregnancy
• Breech Presentation
• Click here to Read a PDF on Acupressure for Labor Induction and Childbirth
• Pain Management During Labor
• Postpartum Treatment
• Pregnancy Links
• Acupuncture During Pregnancy: Answers to the Most Common Question
• What Parts of the Body Should Not be Massaged During Pregnancy?

Why should I get Acupuncture during Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a remarkable and joyful experience. However, the physical and hormonal changes that come with it may cause discomfort. Many expectant mothers deal with fatigue, nausea, back pain, and other issues often considered a normal part of pregnancy. Acupuncture offers a safe, gentle, and effective way to address these concerns, particularly since many conventional medications are not recommended during this time. Receiving acupuncture treatments throughout pregnancy helps promote the well-being of both mother and baby, especially when focusing on labor preparation. Additionally, studies suggest that women who undergo acupuncture during pregnancy often experience shorter and smoother labor compared to those who don’t. Research from Europe has indicated that women receiving weekly acupuncture sessions in the last month of their pregnancy tend to have significantly shorter labor durations. These labor preparation treatments, starting at 36 weeks, aim to reduce stress and anxiety, promote optimal fetal positioning, and enhance the physical readiness of the mother. For those on full or partial bed rest, house calls can be arranged. Postpartum house calls are also available, and new mothers are welcome to bring their babies to office visits.

Pregnancy and Postpartum Conditions

Acupuncture can help treat a variety of pregnancy and postpartum conditions, including:

• Morning sickness, nausea, and severe vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum)
• Difficulty sleeping
• Low energy
• Anemia
• Anxiety and depression
• Constipation
• Heartburn
• Back pain and sciatica
• Pubic symphysis pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Gestational diabetes
• High blood pressure (pre-eclampsia)
• Some cases of threatened miscarriage
• Breech baby positions
• Premature labor
• Delayed labor
• Labor pain
• Enhancing blood flow to the uterus and reproductive organs
• Encouraging cervical ripening
• Assisting in the labor process
• Breastfeeding challenges
• Postpartum depression

Yes, acupuncture is a safe and effective method for supporting a healthy pregnancy and uncomplicated delivery when performed by a qualified practitioner. Practiced for thousands of years, prenatal acupuncture has an excellent safety record. A 2002 study by Adelaide University in Australia found no negative effects of acupuncture during pregnancy when conducted by a trained acupuncturist. While it’s true that certain acupuncture points are avoided during pregnancy due to their ability to stimulate uterine contractions and induce labor, a practitioner skilled in prenatal acupuncture will know which points to use and which to steer clear of. Pregnant patients also maintain regular checkups with their OB/GYN or midwife, so any complications are closely monitored. This holistic approach can significantly reduce the need for medical interventions during labor, such as epidurals and cesarean sections.

Many Chinese herbs are safe and can be highly beneficial during pregnancy. For instance, some are used to prevent miscarriages or reduce premature uterine contractions. However, certain herbs may induce contractions or prove harmful to the fetus. An acupuncturist experienced in prenatal care understands which herbs are safe and which to avoid. Herbal treatments are prescribed with care and only when necessary, taking into account the individual needs of the patient.

First Trimester: Managing Morning Sickness

During the first trimester, acupuncture focuses on creating a solid foundation for a healthy pregnancy. This phase helps prevent miscarriage and reduces early pregnancy symptoms like nausea and exhaustion. Toward the end of this trimester, a special traditional treatment using the “beautiful baby point” supports the development of a healthy baby. Typically, weekly treatments during this period yield the best results.

Second Trimester

The second trimester is centered on maintaining balance and alleviating common pregnancy discomforts. Another “beautiful baby” treatment is performed at the end of the trimester. For uncomplicated pregnancies, patients may visit once or twice a month, while individuals with specific concerns might require more frequent treatment.

Third Trimester

During the final trimester, acupuncture is aimed at preparing the body for labor and delivery. Between weeks 32-36, treatments are administered for breech presentations. After week 39, acupuncture can be used to induce labor naturally if there are no complications. Weekly sessions during this trimester are recommended, as research has shown they can lead to shorter, more efficient labor. Acupuncture can assist in the labor process by preparing the body, facilitating cervical ripening, and reducing imbalances that may hinder labor.

Breech presentation is observed in approximately one out of every 25 full-term pregnancies. This condition can result from factors like abnormal amniotic fluid levels, a short umbilical cord, placenta previa, or an irregularly shaped uterus. However, in many cases, the cause is unknown. Western medicine typically uses the External Cephalic Version (ECV) to manually turn the baby, often performed around week 37 with about a 50% success rate. While effective, ECV can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications like fetal distress, ruptured membranes, or placental separation, potentially requiring an emergency cesarean. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a different, low-risk approach that is about 75% successful. This method involves moxibustion—burning the mugwort herb near an acupuncture point on the foot. It is suggested that moxibustion stimulates hormones, facilitating uterine activity and improving fetal movement so the baby can turn naturally. Ideally performed between weeks 32-36, moxibustion may still be attempted later. If successful, the baby often turns within 24 hours of treatment. Patients are also provided with moxa sticks for at-home use to enhance results. Studies back up the effectiveness of this method. For instance, a 1998 Italian study of 130 women found a 75% success rate in correcting breech presentation through moxibustion. Similarly, a Japanese study in 2000 demonstrated a 92.5% correction rate among 357 participants.

If your doctor or midwife permits, acupuncture can be used during labor for pain management. This treatment, available at home or in a hospital or birthing center, can help you relax, encourage the release of prostaglandins and oxytocin to enhance contractions, assist with cervical dilation, and alleviate pain.

Following childbirth, the initial weeks are a critical time for recovery. Traditional Chinese culture refers to this period as “chan ru,” or “mattress time,” and involves ensuring new mothers get plenty of rest for optimal healing. Supportive female relatives traditionally provided care for the mother and baby during this phase, with additional assistance from herbal remedies to shrink the uterus, stop bleeding, promote milk production, and restore vitality. This care is part of the broader fertility journey, which includes support from conception to delivery. Although modern life rarely allows a month-long recovery period, acupuncture remains a valuable tool for addressing postpartum health challenges, including:

• Postpartum depression and mood fluctuations (“baby blues”)
• Fatigue
• Hormonal imbalances
• Persistent bleeding
• Milk supply issues
• Breast infections (mastitis)
• Abdominal discomfort
• Night sweats

Acupuncture supports new mothers in regaining balance and vitality during postpartum recovery, minimizing long-term health concerns resulting from the postpartum period.

• American Pregnancy Association
• Acufinder.com: Pregnancy

• BABI (Bay Area Birth Information)
• Blossom Birth
• Harmony Birth Resource Center
• Ronnie Falcao’s Resource Page

Text for this page provided by Cindi Ignatovsky, L.Ac.

In conclusion, the growing focus on infertility specialization within acupuncture highlights the powerful role holistic treatments can play in reproductive health. As more individuals seek natural, effective solutions, acupuncture continues to prove its value in supporting fertility and overall well-being. At Atlanta Acupuncture, we are committed to providing expert care in infertility acupuncture, facial acupuncture, pediatric acupuncture, microneedling, infertility, gynecology, and pregnancy acupuncture. Whether you are on a journey to parenthood or looking to enhance your overall health, our specialized services are designed to support you every step of the way.