Prepare for Labour Naturally with Acupuncture for Labour Induction
Are you approaching or past your due date and feeling tired, heavy, or increasingly uncomfortable?
As pregnancy reaches full term, it’s very common to feel both physically and emotionally ready for labour to begin. However, for some people, the body may need a little extra support to shift into this next phase. Hormonal changes, tension, fatigue or anxiety can all play a role in delaying the onset of labour.
Acupuncture is commonly used in the final weeks of pregnancy to help prepare the body for labour and encourage it to begin naturally, when the time is right. It works by supporting the body’s own rhythms, helping it move towards labour in a gentle and responsive way.
How does acupuncture help induce labour?
From a Chinese medicine perspective, labour begins when the body is ready - physically, hormonally and energetically. Rather than “forcing” labour to start, acupuncture aims to support the natural processes involved in labour readiness.
Treatment focuses on:
Encouraging relaxation and reducing tension
Supporting hormonal balance and cervical ripening
Improving circulation to the uterus and pelvis
Helping the body move from a state of holding to one of release
Acupuncture is typically offered from around 38–40 weeks of pregnancy, or earlier if recommended by your midwife or consultant.
Research suggests that acupuncture may help reduce the length of labour, increase the likelihood of spontaneous labour, and lower the need for medical induction in some cases. It has also been shown to support cervical ripening and help the body respond more effectively once labour begins. While results vary from person to person, many people choose acupuncture as a gentle, supportive option in the lead-up to birth.
For research that supports in the use of acupuncture for labour induction and increased cervical ripening, please click the links below.