Acupuncture for Natural Labour Induction: A Gentle Approach in Queenstown

For centuries, acupuncture has supported pregnancy and childbirth.

It works by stimulating specific acupoints that help the body prepare for labour by:

• Encouraging cervical ripening and dilation.

• Promoting the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for contractions.

• Relaxing the nervous system to reduce stress and anxiety, which can delay labour.

• Enhancing blood flow to the uterus, optimising conditions for delivery.

Labour acupuncture isn’t just a feel-good therapy; it’s supported by scientific studies and centuries of practice. For example:
A 2020 study published in the Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine found that acupuncture increased the likelihood of spontaneous labour, reducing the need for medical induction.
Research in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that women who received acupuncture during pregnancy and labour experienced a significant reduction in labour duration compared to those who didn’t.
While acupuncture isn’t a guaranteed solution for every labour challenge, it is a safe, evidence-based tool that can make the experience more manageable.

Safety is a top priority, especially during pregnancy. Acupuncture for labour induction is performed only after 37 weeks of pregnancy when the baby is considered full-term. The treatment is gentle, with no synthetic drugs involved, making it a preferred choice for many women who want to avoid medical interventions like Pitocin or membrane sweeps.

It is essential to receive acupuncture from a trained practitioner who specialises in pregnancy care. They will ensure that the correct acupoints are used at the right stage of pregnancy, enhancing effectiveness while keeping both mother and baby safe.

1. One mother, who had experienced a long and challenging first labour, decided to try acupuncture for her second pregnancy. At 41 weeks and 6 days, she received acupuncture treatment once, and before her second session, her water broke. She went into labour naturally and experienced a shorter, smoother birth within nine hours.

2. A pregnant woman past 40 weeks sought acupuncture to help prepare for labour. After just one session, she noticed significant changes in her body, including frequent Braxton Hicks contractions, which she found encouraging. While her induction was moved forward and scheduled in Invercargill two days after her first treatment, she preferred a natural birth and chose to have a second acupuncture session before travelling, as the treatment had made her feel good. Ideally, acupuncture for labour induction starts around 37 weeks, but even starting later can still offer benefits.

3. A third woman, 40 weeks and 1 day pregnant, sought acupuncture to support her labour process. After just one session, she felt deeply relaxed. The following day, during a check-up with her midwife, she learned she was already 2-3 cm dilated—signs that things were progressing naturally. Continuing with acupuncture can further encourage contractions and support the labour process.

For mothers in Queenstown, acupuncture provides a natural, safe, and research-backed option for encouraging labour. Whether used as a standalone treatment or alongside medical care, acupuncture can help ease the transition into labour, reduce stress, and support a positive birth experience. If you’re considering acupuncture for labour induction, consult a qualified acupuncturist who understands the unique needs of pregnancy and childbirth.

Interested in learning more or booking a session? Visit The Needle Lady Acupuncture Clinic to explore how acupuncture can support your pregnancy journey.