Acupuncture For Labour Preparation | with Rebecca Tanner

Labour Preparation acupuncture is useful at any stage from 36 to 42 weeks, however ideally, I like to see my pregnant clients for weekly acupuncture starting at around 36 to 37 weeks.

Acupuncture treatments gently support the natural lead up to labour by helping with stress /anxiety, relieving muscle tension (neck, shoulder, hip) and pelvic tension and very importantly - as the research now shows - gently promoting cervical ripening. It is also great for the mother to promote oxytocin through spending quality time with their partner, gentle touch, watching comedy time with good friends and avoiding negative narratives.

Here is a list of some of the ways I like to think about supporting labour preparation:

• Reduce stress response and promote oxytocin release in the weeks leading up to labour
• Ensure optimal foetal positioning – cephalic, anterior position, to best engage with the cervix and assist effacement and softening and ultimately dilation
• Support cervical ripening - effacement (thinning) and softening
• Support a woman's energy reserve and stamina in preparation for labour
• A helpful "Tool kit for labour" including acupressure point resources and my favourite labour preparation book

Acupuncture to support your pregnancy can be made with Rebecca here.

Acupuncturist, naturopath and trained midwife, Rebecca Tanner, enjoys blending eastern and western healing traditions and is experienced in supporting women and couples on their fertility journey.