The Benefits of Acupuncture During Pregnancy: A Gentle Approach to Wellness
- Aug 20, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 4, 2025
Pregnancy is a time filled with excitement and anticipation. However, it can also bring discomfort, such as nausea, back pain, and trouble sleeping. Many expectant mothers are now exploring acupuncture during pregnancy as a safe and natural option for relief. But does it truly work, and is it safe?
In this post, I will delve into the research-backed benefits of acupuncture in pregnancy, covering aspects like morning sickness, back and pelvic pain, breech presentation, labour preparation, and IVF support. I will also look at the studies that discuss its safety.
Acupuncture for Morning Sickness (Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy)
Nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy, often referred to as morning sickness, can be incredibly challenging.
A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis found that acupuncture combined with Western medicine may be more effective at reducing nausea and vomiting in pregnancy than medication alone [1].
A 2000 randomised trial indicated that both true acupuncture and sham acupuncture reduced nausea, suggesting that placebo effects may play a role [2].
Summary: Acupuncture may help with morning sickness, although the exact effect is still debated.
Acupuncture for Back Pain and Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy
Back pain and pelvic girdle pain affect up to 70% of pregnant women. Acupuncture is one of the most thoroughly researched complementary treatments for these conditions.
A 2023 meta-analysis of 12 randomised controlled trials involving 1,302 pregnant women found acupuncture to be a safe and potentially effective option for managing pregnancy-related low back and pelvic girdle pain [3].
A 2024 updated analysis confirmed that acupuncture significantly outperformed sham acupuncture, with an overall good safety profile [4].
A 2022 BMJ Open review, which suggested substantial benefits, was later retracted due to methodological flaws [5].
Summary: Evidence suggests acupuncture can help manage pregnancy-related back pain and pelvic discomfort.
Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?
Safety is a key concern for expectant mothers.
A review of 105 studies found that adverse events from acupuncture occurred in only 1.9% of cases—and were generally mild, such as soreness or minor bruising [6].
A large 2020 cohort study showed no increased risk of adverse delivery outcomes in women who received acupuncture during pregnancy [7].
Summary: Acupuncture is considered safe during pregnancy when performed by a trained practitioner, although specific points are generally avoided.
Acupuncture for Labour, Breech Babies, and IVF
Labour & Birth
Research shows no strong evidence that acupuncture reduces caesarean rates or speeds up labour [8]. However, it may offer comfort during the process.
Breech Presentation
Some moderate evidence suggests that moxibustion, a form of heat therapy often used with acupuncture, may encourage breech babies to turn [9]. The results are modest, and more research is needed.
IVF Support
A 2019 review found that acupuncture may improve clinical pregnancy rates in women with previous failed IVF cycles, though not live birth rates [10]. Furthermore, a 2025 meta-analysis linked acupuncture during embryo transfer to improved clinical pregnancy and live birth rates, although the quality of studies varied [11].
Key Takeaways: Acupuncture in Pregnancy
Morning sickness: May help, though evidence is mixed.
Back and pelvic pain: Moderate evidence of benefit, considered safe.
Safety: Generally safe when delivered by a qualified practitioner.
Labour induction: No strong evidence of benefit.
Breech presentation: There is some support for moxibustion, with modest results.
IVF outcomes: Possible benefit for pregnancy rates, especially in difficult cases.
The Emotional Benefits of Acupuncture During Pregnancy
Stress Relief and Relaxation
Pregnancy can be a stressful time. Acupuncture offers a gentle way to relax. Many women report feeling calmer and more centred after a session. This relaxation can positively affect both the mother and the baby.
Connection with the Baby
During acupuncture, many mothers feel a deeper connection with their unborn child. This nurturing experience can enhance emotional well-being. It’s a beautiful way to bond and prepare for motherhood.
Support for Mental Health
Acupuncture may also help alleviate anxiety and depression during pregnancy. Research indicates that it can be a supportive tool for mental health. Feeling balanced and supported is essential during this transformative time.
How to Choose a Qualified Acupuncturist
Look for Credentials
When seeking acupuncture, ensure your practitioner has the right qualifications. Look for someone certified and experienced in treating pregnant women. This ensures safety and effectiveness.
Ask About Experience
Don’t hesitate to ask potential acupuncturists about their experience with pregnancy-related issues. A knowledgeable practitioner will be happy to share their background and approach.
Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. Choose a practitioner with whom you feel comfortable. A warm, welcoming environment can make all the difference in your experience.
Conclusion: Embracing Acupuncture for a Healthier Pregnancy
Acupuncture can be a valuable tool during pregnancy. It offers potential relief from discomfort and supports emotional well-being. If you are considering acupuncture, ensure you consult a qualified practitioner. This gentle approach can enhance your pregnancy experience.
In summary, acupuncture may help with various pregnancy-related issues. While the evidence is still evolving, many women find it beneficial. It’s a personal journey, and I encourage you to explore what feels right for you.
References
Sun, Z. et al. (2024). Efficacy of acupuncture combined with Western medicine for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. ScienceDirect.
Smith, C. et al. (2000). Acupuncture to treat nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: A randomised controlled trial. Obstetrics & Gynaecology.
Zhao, J. et al. (2023). Efficacy and safety of acupuncture in treating low back and pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy: A meta-analysis. Annals of Palliative Medicine.
Wang, L. et al. (2024). Acupuncture versus sham acupuncture for low back and pelvic pain in pregnancy: Updated meta-analysis. Annals of Palliative Medicine.
BMJ Open (2022). Acupuncture for back and pelvic pain in pregnancy: Systematic review. [Retracted]. 🔎
Park, J. et al. (2014). The safety of acupuncture during pregnancy: A systematic review. Acupuncture in Medicine.
Smith, C. et al. (2020). Acupuncture in pregnancy: Retrospective cohort study of safety and maternal outcomes. BJOG.
Ee, C. et al. (2019). Acupuncture for induction of labour: Systematic review and meta-analysis. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology.
Coyle, M. et al. (2012). Moxibustion and acupuncture for breech presentation: Systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine.
10. Qian, Y. et al. (2019). Acupuncture and IVF: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
11. Chen, Y. et al. (2025). Effects of acupuncture on embryo transfer outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Healthcare (MDPI).
🔎 What Does Retracted Mean?
Sometimes, scientific studies are later found to have serious problems — for example, errors in the way the research was designed, mistakes in data collection, or issues with how the results were analysed. When this happens, the journal may officially retract (withdraw) the paper. A retracted study should no longer be used as reliable evidence, because its findings can’t be trusted. In this case, the 2022 BMJ Open review on acupuncture for pregnancy-related back and pelvic pain was retracted after publication due to significant flaws in data handling. That’s why it isn’t included as solid evidence here.
Comments