Natural Pregnancy Induction and Pre-Birth Treatments
Acupuncture encourages the body to progress naturally through the stages to initiate labor. This approach is often described as “ripening the fruit,” allowing your body to prepare for labor in a natural way
As you approach the final weeks of your pregnancy, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. Many women become eager to meet their little ones and begin to think about encouraging labor to start. At The Acupuncture and Health Centre, we offer a gentle and effective method to support this process. Acupuncture Induction
Although many women seek out Acupuncture Induction we prefer to refer to our treatments as Cervical Ripening.
Unlike hospital inductions that force labor, acupuncture encourages the body to progress naturally through the stages to initiate labor. This approach is often described as “ripening the fruit,” allowing your body to prepare for labor in a natural way
Why Consider Acupuncture for Labor Induction?
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to promote health and balance within the body. When it comes to labor induction, acupuncture can provide a natural alternative to medical interventions. Here’s how it works:
Promotes Natural Progression. Acupuncture encourages the body to progress naturally through the stages to initiate labor. This approach is often described as “ripening the fruit,” allowing your body to prepare for labor in a natural way. 1
Balances Hormones. Acupuncture works through the nervous system, sending signals to the brain that can influence chemical, hormonal, and nervous outputs. This can help balance the hormones involved in labor, promoting a smoother and more efficient process.
Addresses Individual Needs. Classical Chinese diagnosis allows us to assess your constitution and identify any potential weaknesses or blockages. Whether it’s a lack of energy, blood deficiency, or structural imbalances, our practitioners tailor treatments to address your unique needs.
Relaxes the Pelvic Floor. Acupuncture can help relax the pelvic floor muscles, allowing the baby’s head to drop and begin the engagement process. This stimulates labor and can ease the passage through the birth canal, potentially reducing labor time and the risk of tearing.
Data on 169 women was gathered by 14 midwives as part of their midwifery practice in Wellington, New Zealand. It found that when comparing all pre birth treatment options (Midwives, GP’s and Specialists) to those women who had received pre-birth acupuncture there was:• An overall 35% reduction in the number of inductions (for women having their first baby there was a 43% reduction)
• A 31% reduction in the epidural rate
In the study, when comparing midwifery-only care to women receiving pre-birth acupuncture there was:
• A 32% reduction in emergency caesarean delivery
• A 9 % increase in normal vaginal births
There also was no difference in the incidence of early onset labour in women who received pre-birth acupuncture.
Our Expertise
At The Acupuncture and Health Centre, our practitioners are highly experienced in treating pregnancy-related disorders and labor induction. We are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you through this important time, ensuring both you and your baby are healthy and ready for the journey ahead.
What to Expect
Your acupuncture induction session will begin with a thorough consultation to understand your pregnancy and any concerns you may have. Our practitioners will then use carefully placed needles to stimulate specific points on your body, promoting relaxation and encouraging labor to start naturally.
When to come in?
For those who want to be proactive about acupuncture for labor induction, we recommend starting Pre Birth treatments between weeks 36 and 37. However, it is not unusual for women who are past their due date to come in seeking help to initiate labor.