Acupuncture for Labour Preparation
Acupuncture for labour preparation is suggested from 36 weeks onwards. Ideally a treatment a week may prepare your body towards having the most efficient labour possible. Regular acupuncture treatment in the weeks leading up to your EDD may allow you to go into labour on time and facilitate the normal progress of labour free from complication once it begins.
Research suggest that pe-birth acupuncture:
Ripens the cervix
Reduces the number of medical inductions in first time mums
Initiates labour and shortens the first stage of labour
Reduces labour pain which in turn reduces the rate of epidural usage
In addition to the above benefits, seeing your registered Acupuncturist weekly will offer you the opportunity to address any stress or symptoms that you might be experiencing in the last few weeks of pregnancy. Acupuncture can be useful for swelling, back/hip pain, acid reflux, headaches & anxiety associated with the labour process, motherhood and many other common pregnancy symptoms. Acupuncture can also be used to encourage breech and posterior babies to turn.
