When a pregnancy reaches or approaches its due date without spontaneous labour beginning, many women want to try something gentle before medical induction. Acupuncture is a common request at this point, and it is low-risk when performed by a registered practitioner.
We should be straight about the evidence. A Cochrane review of acupuncture for induction of labour concluded there was insufficient evidence to determine whether it works. Some small trials report effects on cervical ripening and fewer medical inductions; others found nothing. What we can honestly say is that it is low-risk, that women often find the sessions calming at a genuinely stressful point, and that it does not interfere with your maternity team's plan.
Our approach at Rozelle Acupuncture uses specific acupuncture points traditionally indicated for promoting labour, combined with acupressure guidance for your partner to continue between sessions. Treatment is only offered when clinically appropriate, typically at or beyond 40 weeks, and in close communication with your maternity care team.
Sessions are typically offered daily or every other day for up to three sessions. We monitor your response and adjust the approach based on your pregnancy history, fetal wellbeing, and the clinical picture.