Acupuncture For Labour Induction | with Rebecca Tanner

For thousands of years, acupuncture has been used as a traditional method to facilitate natural labour. At Floralia Wellness, we often see expecting mothers who seek acupuncture to initiate labour instead of opting for medical induction.

It is however important to note that not everyone will go into natural labour, and that is completely fine. Even if medical induction is required, our primary goal remains promoting an efficient labour process while prioritising the health of both the mother and the baby. Therefore, it's essential to keep your appointments with your doctor or midwife.

The Concept Of Labour Induction Acupuncture

The aim of acupuncture is not to force the baby to come but rather focuses on creating an ideal environment that encourages the baby to enter the world by relaxing the mind and preparing the body for childbirth. Ideally, it is recommended to book acupuncture treatment at least once a week starting from 36 weeks of pregnancy. This allows sufficient time for a gradual build-up of the necessary hormones, such as oxytocin, which play a crucial role in triggering labour. Regular acupuncture sessions also help keep the mother feeling comfortable and well-rested during this important period. After reaching the due date at 40 weeks, treatment frequency can be increased to every 2-3 days for the best chance of avoiding medical induction.

What Happens In Labour Induction Acupuncture?

During your first acupuncture consultation there will be initial assessment of your wellbeing in pregnancy. Rebecca is a trained midwife and acupuncturist and will ask about your due date, any advice from your doctor or midwife and she will assess your baby’s position. You may have pelvic pain, poor sleep, digestive upsets, or other concerns you would like to discuss or address.

The aim is to treat the whole dyad of mother and baby, as when you are feeling less stressed and have better energy, your baby will likely feel it is safe to be born. Our holistic approach aims to treat you as a whole person, recognising that your relaxation and comfort are crucial in creating an environment that encourages your baby to come into the world.

Once we have gathered the necessary information, we will help you find a comfortable position, typically lying on your side in a comfortable position with props to support you. Often, Rebecca starts with gentle hip acupressure or stretches to balance the pelvis (she is qualified in optimal birth positioning).

The acupuncture treatment will commence once you are comfortably positioned. The treatment primarily involves the insertion of fine needles into points on your feet, legs, arms, and hands. If you are nearing a scheduled induction or past 41 weeks, she may also incorporate electro-acupuncture to enhance the effect. Electro-acupuncture involves connecting the acupuncture points to a minor electrical current, providing gentle stimulation. The procedure should always feel within your comfort level and if required thumb or finger acupressure can be substituted at any time. It’s important that you feel relaxed and at ease throughout the treatment process.

Rebecca will also provide explanations throughout the process, ensuring that you understand the techniques used and the underlying theory behind what we are doing to assist the progression towards labour. In addition to the in-clinic treatment, you will be taught acupressure points that you can continue to massage at home or during labour. While not as potent as acupuncture stimulation, massaging these key points can help maintain the progress initiated during the treatment.

The frequency of follow-up appointments will depend on how close you are to your due date or if an induction date has already been scheduled. Based on these factors, your practitioner will provide recommendations tailored to your specific circumstances. The following are typical guidelines:

• Starting acupuncture around 36 weeks: It is advisable to receive weekly acupuncture sessions until week 40, assuming you have no significant pain or issues requiring additional symptomatic relief. After week 40, sessions should be scheduled every 2-3 days to maximise effectiveness.
• Starting acupuncture around 38 weeks: In this scenario, it is recommended to have acupuncture sessions once or twice weekly until week 40, then every 2-3 days.
• Starting acupuncture around week 40 or 41 weeks or if an induction of labour is imminent: Any amount of treatment is worthwhile. If time permits book a minimum of two treatments.

By creating a relaxed and comfortable environment, acupuncture aims to facilitate the baby's willingness to enter the world. Whether you have a natural labour or require medical induction, ensuring the health of both you and your baby is paramount. Therefore, it is essential to maintain regular appointments with your healthcare providers throughout your pregnancy journey. Acupuncture offers a time-honoured approach to promote natural labour and optimise the childbirth experience whilst always ensuring your specific are needs are met in each treatment.

Labour induction appointments or acupuncture throughout 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 throughout their pregnancy.