Acupuncture & Inducing Labour

Acupuncture for Labour Induction

For expectant mothers, pregnancy acupuncture is a natural and holistic therapy that can complement your overall pregnancy health plan.  Acupuncture for labour induction is becoming sought after by pregnant women who are looking for a natural alternative to medications or pharmaceutical inductions. 

At AcuHealth Therapies we utilise acupuncture for labour induction as a gentle and non-invasive therapy that involves inserting fine sterile needles into specific areas of the body that may assist the body to prepare for labour.  Dr Sharlane Aldover has over 15 years experience tailoring pregnancy acupuncture therapy plans for patients. 

How acupuncture may help to induce labour

Acupuncture is a key pillar of Traditional Chinese Medicine which is a system of health management that places importance on maintaining balance within the body. Acupuncture practitioners focus on maximising the flow of  ‘Qi’ which is regarded as the energy force that runs throughout the body.  

The approach that acupuncturists take is to create the best possible environment for you and your baby. Some expectant mothers may not go into labour naturally but acupuncture may assist to create the best possible outcomes that could promote a natural labour.    

Acupuncture may help to prepare pregnant women for labour by: 

  • Promoting the readiness of the cervix.   
  • Stimulating hormones and triggering the release of endorphins that may promote the onset of labour
  • Supporting pain management 
  • Encouraging relaxation of the body while minimising stress and anxiety

Is acupuncture for inducing labour safe?

Yes, acupuncture is considered safe for both you and your baby and it’s a natural alternative to encourage the onset of labour.  

You should always ensure that any acupuncture treatment is administered by a licensed and experienced acupuncture practitioner. In Australia, acupuncturists are  regulated by AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).

How to prepare for a session

If you have never had acupuncture before and are not sure what to expect, rest assured that an acupuncture therapy plan places your health and the health of your baby as the number one priority. 

Prior to a session we recommend: 

  • Wearing comfortable and loose-fitting clothing to enable the acupuncturist to access acupuncture points – generally along the legs, feet, arms, hands, lower back and on the face and head. 
  • Having a light meal and staying hydrated  to to avoid any risk of feeling light-headed and to enhance healing properties
  • Filling in your initial consultation form so that your acupuncturist is aware of your health background and any factors that may be affecting your pregnancy.  
  • Being relaxed and communicating openly with your acupuncturist

When to start acupuncture for labour induction

  • We recommend starting acupuncture for labour induction at the 34th week mark. This enables weekly treatments to begin prior to you reaching your full term and allows the body to gradually build up the hormones that are necessary for the onset of labour.  Starting treatments earlier can also enable an acupuncturist to focus on maximising your overall well-being. 

    Treatments can be scheduled more frequently as you approach full-term and can occur every 3-4 days.   

If you are seeking a holistic and tailored therapy to give you the best chance of a natural labour don’t hesitate to contact us.

Dr Sharlane has over 15 years experience in pregnancy acupuncture.

0403 524 893

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