What to expect when trying Acupuncture for Labour induction
Acupuncture has been used traditionally to help promote natural labour for thousands of years. At the Blossom Tree Pregnancy Clinic we often see expecting mothers seeking acupuncture to initiate natural labour over medical induction. The idea of acupuncture for labour induction is that we can’t force baby to come, instead we try to create the ideal environment for them to want to come by relaxing the mind and preparing the body for childbirth and stimulating the acupuncture meridians that are closely linked with the uterus. Ideally, we recommend weekly acupuncture from 36 weeks (we call this pre birth acupuncture). These pre birth treatments allows time for a gradual build up of the necessary hormones for labour (such as oxytocin), and keep the mother feeling as comfortable and well rested as possible. Research has shown that the mean duration of labour in a group of women giving birth for the first time was reduced from eight hours and two minutes to to six hours and 36 minutes in a group of 70 women who received pre birth acupuncture (Auteroche, B el al 1986). After the due date at 40 weeks and especially if the pregnant woman is wanting to avoid a medical induction treatment can be as frequent as every 2-3 days to give us the best chance of avoiding the need for this. If a woman has not been coming for pre-birth treatment we can still effectively give treatment every 2-3days to encourage the onset of labour.
What Are The Benefits Of Acupuncture For Labour Induction?
Relaxation: For many, Acupuncture is a natural way to help reduce stress and anxiety, creating a calmer environment for labour progression. Relaxation is key when you are preparing for childbirth. Research into the progression of labour has shown that stress can impede a steady delivery and increase pain.
Pain Management: Some studies suggest acupuncture may relieve pain during contractions, potentially enhancing comfort.
Potential Induction: Acupuncture stimulates specific pathways and promotes uterine contractions, encouraging natural labour.
The safe, natural approach: Pregnancy Acupuncture for labour induction is a safe and incredibly relaxing treatment, both for mums-to-be and their babies, which is another good reason to choose it!
Research
In a recent study published online in December 2025 (Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM ) acupuncture may be an option to increase the rate of spontaneous labor onset. The main findings of this study showed a significant increase in the spontaneous onset of labor rate in favour of acupuncture compared to no intervention. A randomized control trial was carried out on “Acupuncture for cervical ripening and induction of labour at term” (Rabl M el al 2001) which demonstrated that bilateral acupuncture at LI 4 and Sp6 for 20mins every second day from a women’s due date supported cervical ripening at term and shortened the time interval between the woman’s expected due date and the time of delivery. There is still much more research to be done in this area.