Acupuncture for a Soother
Labor and Faster Birth

As the day of birth approaches, many expecting mothers wonder what they can do to prepare their bodies for labor.

How Acupuncture Helps

As the most expected date gets closer, sometimes women’s bodies need a little nudge in preparation for labor and this is where you will notice the most powerful effect acupuncture can have on a changing body. Acupuncture will assist in labor preparation by facilitating dilation and softening the cervix for soother birth.

Acupuncture encourages the body to produce labor hormones and start contractions. Acupuncture is a gentle, safe alternative to artificial induction of labor.

a woman kissing a baby
a woman kissing a baby

When will you benefit the most?

  • Labor acupuncture normally begins after 37 weeks of pregnancy
  • If you are past your due date
  • After your water breaks and labor has not yet started or is moving slowly
  • Decided for a vaginal birth after a C-Section birth
  • Breech baby
Acupuncture can take a few hours to take effect or up to 72 hours and can be done several times in a row if necessary.

Acupuncture for Breech Babies

Breach baby is a condition successfully treated using acupuncture.

Towards the end of pregnancy, most babies will rotate into a head down position in preparation for birth. Breech, or head-up position, occurs in 3-5% of pregnancies at term, and typically indicates a cesarean birth. Acupuncture can assist breech babies. Often mothers have physical and/or emotional tension patterns that may be restricting baby’s movement and are preventing your baby from turning. Acupuncture is a powerful tool for reducing stress and alleviating any restraining emotions that might be playing a role. Acupuncture points are chosen on an individual basis, and will therefore be different for each mother to be.

Moxibustion for Breech Babies

Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy. Ai Ye or Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) is an herb used to warm and stimulate acupuncture points through a process called moxibustion. This herb is used compressed into a stick, looking like an oversized cigar that can be lit and allowed to smolder producing a very penetrating heat.
This treatment is done daily and can also be done at home which is a highly effective way to encourage your breech baby to turn. Specific acupuncture points need to be stimulated for this to occur. You will be shown how to treat yourself at home and will be given step-by-step instructions, plus you will be able to reach Dr. Mariana should any questions arise.

This natural approach to your labor will complement any care you receive from your Gynecologist, Obstetrician or Midwife.

There are many techniques you can use to encourage your baby to move into optimal position for delivery. Any and all interventions should be discussed with your midwife or OB prior to treatment. Dr. Mariana will generally recommend the least invasive and safest as a first option, including acupuncture and moxibustion.
If you are not sure if acupuncture is right for you, don’t worry, Dr. Mariana will be happy to answer any and all of your questions.
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