The Benefits of Prenatal Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to be connected to different organs and systems in the body, and acupuncture is thought to help balance the flow of energy, or qi, in the body.

Pediatric acupuncture is a gentle form of acupuncture that can help children with a variety of health issues, including digestive problems, allergies, and anxiety among others.

During pregnancy, acupuncture can help alleviate many common pregnancy-related symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, back pain, and headaches. It can also help improve sleep quality and reduce stress and anxiety. In addition, acupuncture can help prepare the body for labor and delivery. Regular acupuncture treatments in the weeks leading up to delivery can help ripen the cervix, promote uterine contractions, and reduce the need for medical interventions during labor.

Studies suggest that acupuncture is relatively safe for most pregnancies and that severe reactions or complications are rare. You may experience mild complications (pain or swelling at the needle insertion point, for example) that aren’t long-lasting. In short, when done properly by a trained professional, acupuncture during pregnancy is considered safe and has few risks.

If you’re considering acupuncture, talk about it with your practitioner first. Though some complementary and alternative therapies are generally considered safe, it’s best to discuss any health conditions, medications or other issues to determine if acupuncture is right for you. Look for an acupuncturist licensed by his or her state and certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).