Pre-birth acupuncture | Preparation for labour

At The Village Healing Centre, we support women through the final weeks of pregnancy with acupuncture treatments, acupressure training and targeted advice on fostering the mind-body connection to enhance labour and the whole birthing experience.

• Maybe you’ve done CalmBirth, Hypnobirthing and prenatal yoga and are preparing for an active, natural birth…
• Maybe you’ve done the hospital classes, not sure how you’ll go, planning to ask for an epidural and other support…
• Maybe you’ve been told an induction is likely and this is causing some apprehension…

Everyone comes to the birthing experience along their own unique path, and we will meet you on the way and help you to get to your best position, so that you can have your best experience.

The role of acupuncture in birth preparation

Acupuncture influences the body in a wide variety of ways. Here are some of the effects of acupuncture that may be helpful as you prepare for birth:

• Release of the body’s natural pain killers (endorphins)
• May help the cervix to soften
• Promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety
• Modulating the interaction between hormones and nervous system
• Helping with fatigue
• Encouraging sound sleep

Acupuncture to help with symptoms before the birth

Acupuncture may also help you prepare for birth and the postpartum period by addressing symptoms such as:

• Headache
• Migraine
• Low back pain
• Pelvic pain or other pain
• Effects of stress eg insomnia

Acupressure to prepare for labour and relieve pain during labour

Your birth support person can use practical and targeted pressure points to help with pain and relaxation during labour.

In our experience, partners enjoy feeling empowered with a toolbox of techniques to help you in a practical way.

Acupressure is also a wonderful way to continue pre-birth treatments at home between your acupuncture sessions.

Please contact the clinic to book a training session for you and your support person. Illustrated booklet is provided.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start?

Most women start weekly treatments at about 37 weeks, for standard low-risk pregnancies.

Is it worth coming earlier than 37 weeks?

Yes – many women do choose to come for acupuncture earlier in pregnancy. They can then address any problems that might come up such as headaches, anxiety or back pain.

I may need an earlier medical induction – can acupuncture help?

Yes – if you are due to be induced on or before your due date, for example if you have a big baby, you may start pre-birth and induction acupuncture sooner.

Ideally, you will start Pre-birth acupuncture five to six weeks before planned medical induction. However, no matter your situation we can tailor a care plan to meet you where you’re at.

We can include the “induction points” sooner in your treatment plan, working with input from your medical provider.

Will I need more than 4 sessions?

This depends on your baby and your body together! Many women do benefit from one or two sessions after 40 weeks to get to onset of labour.

How does it work?

During the lead-up to labour, your baby and your body are communicating with each other and working through an integrated natural process.

With Pre-birth Acupuncture (and induction acupuncture after the due date), we are aiming to support these mind-body processes by regulating interconnected body functions, working with the body as a whole. Our aim is to make this natural program more efficient, by relaxing the body to get it into healing and flow mode, helping to reduce the “noise” and allow your body and baby to communicate well.

We can also target specific problems that come up, creating a comprehensive care plan for you.

Is acupuncture painful?

At this clinic, a very gentle and comfortable technique is used. Women usually find it to be very relaxing, drifting into a sleepy state during the session.

Is it worth doing if I am having an elective Caesarean section?

Yes. Acupuncture can help with preparing you for the birth and postpartum period by providing relaxation and addressing symptoms. We can also support you through the process of planning to help your c-section birth be a satisfying and meaningful experience.

What are the costs, are there rebates?

You can take your sessions at the single-session one-hour rate (see our Fees & Rebates page).

You can also choose to take a pre-paid package, with increased savings the more sessions that are prepaid. Many women like to take a package for birth preparation, with any unused sessions going towards their postpartum care.

Most health funds with extras cover will provide rebates for acupuncture.

Further information or seeking treatment

If you would like to know more, you can:

• Call us on (02) 9938 2182
• Request a 15-minute Free Consultation to discuss your unique health situation and ask us questions, to find out whether our services may be a good fit for you
• Request a Booking to begin treatment

We look forward to supporting you towards your best birth.