Every Stage Matters: Acupuncture for Pregnancy and Postpartum
One of the questions I hear all the time is: Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
The short answer is—absolutely. Not only is it safe, it can be incredibly supportive at every stage, from trying to conceive all the way through the fourth trimester.
Research shows acupuncture may improve conception rates for people trying to conceive naturally or through IUI or IVF. Acupuncture has been shown to promote healthy blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulate hormonal function, and reduce stress levels, all of which can play an important role in supporting fertility when you’re hoping to grow your family.
In early pregnancy, acupuncture may help lower the risk of early miscarriage and ease so many of those common symptoms like morning sickness, fatigue, back and hip pain, carpal tunnel, and heartburn. It’s also great for helping manage blood pressure and keeping you feeling your best as your body changes. Many people find their sessions to be a calming time to slow down and tune into what they need.
Once you reach 37 weeks, we can start using specific points that gently prepare your body for labor and encourage things to progress naturally. Regular treatments around this time can help soften and ripen the cervix, reduce stress, and get your body ready to welcome your baby.
Care doesn’t have to stop once your baby arrives. In fact, this is when you deserve extra support. The postpartum period is such a big transition, both physically and emotionally. After delivery, acupuncture can be a valuable tool for postpartum healing, helping you regain strength, replenish Qi and Blood, and promote healing from the experience of childbirth. It’s also a wonderful resource for mental health and can be part of your plan to address postpartum depression or anxiety if it comes up.
If you’re curious about how acupuncture can help you feel more supported and comfortable during pregnancy and beyond, I’d love to chat. Feel free to reach out any time to schedule a session or ask questions.
