Try a natural approach to

labor induction using acupuncture 

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Who Is A Good Candidate For Labor Induction?

 

A good candidate is any woman who is very close to their estimated due date, or even post-date. You can start inducing labor with acupuncture about one to two weeks before your due date, or any day past 40 weeks. If you are scheduled for labor induction at the hospital, but would prefer to start labor naturally, you can come in for labor induction with acupuncture before your appointment for a session. 

 

With just 1-3 sessions, booked a few days apart, you'll be well on your way to a safe and comfortable labor.

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How Does It Work?

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Release of endorphins: Acupuncture points stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers. This helps to relax the body and reduce stress, creating an environment conducive to labor.

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Stimulation of the uterus: Acupuncture points also trigger the release of other hormones, such as oxytocin, which plays a role in uterine contractions. Increased contractions could lead to the onset of labor.

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Help with cervical ripening: The treatments also induce changes in cervical ripening, making the cervix more favorable for labor to start.

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What Acupuncture Points Work Best?

 

​​​​​The following acupuncture points are commonly used to induce labor:

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Spleen 6 (SP6) - "Three Yin Intersection"

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Location: This point is located about four fingers' width above the inner ankle bone, along the inside of the lower leg.

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How it Helps: SP6 is a powerful point commonly used in acupuncture to regulate and promote uterine contractions and reduce labor pain. It's often avoided until late pregnancy because of its potential to stimulate labor.

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Bladder 32 (BL32) - "Second Crevice"

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Location: Found in the sacral region, in the second posterior sacral foramen (small hole in the sacrum), about the level of the dimples in your lower back.

 

How it Helps: This point is thought to help trigger contractions and relieve labor-related pain. It is often used when labor is delayed or if the woman is experiencing slow progress.

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Large Intestine 4 (LI4) - "Joining Valley"

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Location: LI4 is found on the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.

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How it Helps: LI4 is traditionally used to promote the descending and moving functions of the body, making it effective for stimulating uterine contractions. It's also known for helping relieve pain and can be used throughout labor.

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Bladder 60 (BL60) - "Kunlun Mountains"

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Location: This point is located on the outer ankle, between the ankle bone and the Achilles tendon.

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How it Helps: BL60 is often used to encourage the body’s natural downward energy, which can promote contractions and help with the progression of labor.

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You can practice at home too in between treatments! Joanne will instruct you on how to practice acupressure at home on your own and with your partner to increase your opportunity for a successful natural induction.

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Lifestyle & Nutritional Practices to Support Labor Naturally

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Along with acupuncture and acupressure, there are some holistic practices that may help encourage labor when the time is right. Here are a few gentle suggestions:

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Stay Active: Light exercise such as walking, squatting, or using a birthing ball can help the baby move into position and encourage cervical dilation. Walking helps apply gentle pressure to the cervix and promotes pelvic flexibility.

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Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: Known for its uterine-toning properties, red raspberry leaf tea is a popular herbal remedy during the last trimester. It’s believed to help strengthen the uterus and support contractions.

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Eat Dates: Studies suggest that eating dates in the final weeks of pregnancy can help with cervical ripening and may reduce need for medical induction. Aim for about 6 dates per day if it feels right for you.

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Nipple Stimulation: Gently massaging or stimulating your nipples can release oxytocin, a hormone that helps trigger contractions. This can be done manually or with a breast pump.

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Spicy Foods: For some women, eating spicy foods or foods with warming properties may help stimulate digestion and uterine activity. Just be cautious of any foods that upset your stomach.

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Stay Relaxed: Reducing stress and fear can be key in letting your body naturally begin the labor process. Gentle yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help calm the mind and prepare the body.

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Warm Baths: Taking a warm bath can promote relaxation and stimulate circulation. Adding essential oils like lavender (safe for pregnancy) can enhance the calming effect. Adding a cup of epsom salt to the bath also calms the nervous system and relaxes that muscles. 

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A Gentle Reminder:

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Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.  A licensed acupuncturist comfortable working with pregnancy care can guide you safely through the process.

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Encouraging labor naturally should always be done with care and patience. Trust your body, and know that it will move into the birthing process at the right time.