Acupuncture is an ancient practice used to achieve balance and higher levels of health and wellness in one’s body. While acupuncture is used to treat a variety of health conditions, it can also support and nurture women or birthing parents who are expecting, experiencing labor, or have recently given birth. Acupuncture has been used to support and facilitate labor and delivery for more than 2,000 years. The use of acupuncture and acupressure can reduce pain, ease the transition phases during labor, and in some cases, reduce the reliance of pharmaceutical interventions.
How does acupuncture help to promote well-being and prepare a body for labor and delivery?
Acupuncture reduces stress, alleviates anxiety, and promotes calmness before labor begins. The treatments increase the production of the natural hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin stimulates powerful contractions that help to dilate the cervix, move the baby down and out of the birth canal, and limit bleeding at the site of the placenta. Acupuncture also increases blood flow to the pelvic and uterine region, which encourages natural softening and dilation of the cervix. Acupuncture is a complementary method for safely supporting labor and effectively treating pain and discomfort during the birthing process.