You may have heard that acupuncture can help with morning sickness or prepare your body for labor. But what do the guidelines actually say? And is it safe for you and your baby?
Acupuncture is mentioned as a treatment for more than 30 conditions in clinical guidelines. Several of these are directly relevant for pregnant women.
What Do the Guidelines Say?
ACOG and Medical Literature
According to research published in major medical journals, acupuncture has documented effects on:
- Pregnancy-related nausea - recommended in clinical guidelines for mild to moderate morning sickness
- Pain relief during labor - women report good results with trained practitioners
- Pelvic girdle pain - may help relieve pain during pregnancy
- Labor preparation - some evidence suggests acupuncture may help prepare the body for labor
- Muscle tension and back pain - can help relieve pregnancy-related muscle tension
Acupuncture is increasingly offered by midwives and healthcare providers in many countries. Look for practitioners with specific training in pregnancy acupuncture and verify their credentials.
Pregnancy Complaints Acupuncture May Help With
Morning Sickness
Acupuncture is recommended in guidelines for treating pregnancy-related nausea. The effect is best documented for mild to moderate nausea. For severe nausea (hyperemesis gravidarum), the data is more uncertain, and medical treatment may be necessary.