Induction of labor with acupuncture is a practice based on Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been used to stimulate the onset of labor in pregnant women. Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points, with the goal of balancing the flow of energy (or “qi”) and promoting health.
Through acupuncture, we stimulate the production of endorphins, which provides us with endogenous analgesia as effective at times as morphine and which in turn activates the secretion of Oxytocin, a hormone responsible for inhibiting pain and producing contractions of childbirth respectively.
In recent years, the use of alternatives to conventional induction and complementary medicines has become popular. During pregnancy and childbirth, a considerable number of women seek help in complementary therapies to use them in parallel to conventional medicine.
When faced with a prolonged pregnancy, pregnant women refer to mechanical or pharmacological induction as an aggressive intervention in the natural process of pregnancy. This is the fundamental reason why the patient is interested in the use of complementary therapies in labor induction. In some parts of Europe and Asia, acupuncture has been described as a method of relieving labor pains and facilitating the ripening of the cervix. More recently it has been used to stimulate the induction of labor.
Induction of labor with acupuncture has been studied since 1976, it has been described as successful in between 67 and 81% of women with a gestation between weeks 38 to 42, and a pattern of uterine activity similar to that of labor is obtained normal delivery.
We will apply acupuncture at the first signs that the time has arrived, a few hours before or even to stimulate the process when birth is delayed.
If the pregnancy is prolonged, week 41-42, with the use of acupuncture it is very likely that the mother will begin labor in the next 24 hours, if necessary, it will be repeated after 48 hours.
It is an easy to apply non-invasive technique.
Principles of Acupuncture in Labor Induction
- Specific Point Stimulation: Specific acupuncture points are used and are believed to stimulate uterine contractions, relax the cervix and balance the hormones needed for childbirth.
- Balance of energy flow: According to traditional Chinese medicine, childbirth can be influenced by the balance of Qi in the body. Acupuncture is used to correct any imbalances and promote a healthy and timely birth.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Acupuncture can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can be beneficial for the onset of labor.
Considerations and Precautions
- Consultation with professionals: It is important to consult with a health professional and a certified acupuncturist before undergoing acupuncture for labor induction.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions may contraindicate the use of acupuncture. It is essential to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with the acupuncturist.
- Stage of Pregnancy: Acupuncture for labor induction is generally considered only in the later stages of pregnancy, close to the due date or if there is a medical reason to induce labor.
