When to start Acupuncture to Induce Labour
Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, never before used needles, into specific areas of the body. These points can be used in the weeks leading up to birth. These specific acupuncture points can help with pain, promote efficient contractions and cervical dilation.
Acupuncture Point for Cervical Dilation
Spleen 6 is the main point for cervical dilation.
If you’re applying pressure at home, steady pressure on SP6 during contractions can reduce pain and shorten labour duration. This point also helps with placental delivery.
It can be found four finger widths above the tip of the inner ankle bone. This point is often tender. Direct pressure can be applied daily for at least 1 minute every 2 hours or so.
Acupuncture Point for Pain
Large Intestine 4 is an acupuncture point for pain relief during labour. It also helps to stimulate efficient contractions, and can be useful if contractions are irregular. During the birth it helps bring baby down once the cervix is fully dilated.
This point is found at the highest point when the thumb is brought to rest against the index finger. If you’re applying pressure at home, direct pressure can be applied by ‘pinching’ the point for at least a minute, daily every 2 hours or so. When located correctly, it produces a dull, achy feeling. You can also gently pulse the point (little squeezes) to strengthen contractions – stopping the pulsing when contractions begin. Reducing pain occurs best with strong, steady pressure.
Acupuncture Point for Descent
Gallbladder 21 has a strong descending action, which can send baby down during the dilation and birthing stage of labour. Moreover, it can also stimulate uterine contractions and after birth help with placental delivery. In the postpartum it can aid with feeding as it promotes the let-down reflex.
At home, firm pressure can be applied downward with thumbs once or twice daily. The point may feel tender with a numbing/buzzing/warming sensation. During labour, apply at the beginning or during each contraction.
Gallbladder 21 can be located halfway between the tip of the shoulder and the midline of the spine, on the highest point of the trapezius muscle.
Acupuncture for Extra Support
Urinary Bladder 32 produces a numbing effect on the strength of contractions. It may also help with promoting cervical dilation.
At home, pressure can be applied by your support person. They can apply firm pressure (or massaging down to the buttocks) at least once a day for about 5 minutes. If a sharp sensation is felt, the support person may be applying pressure to the bone.
UB32 may be located midway between the dimples above the buttocks and spine. If you can’t clearly see the dimples, it lies above the top of the buttock crease and approximately one thumb width on either side of the spine. You may feel a small depression here due to the ‘holes’ in the sacrum.
Contraindications for Acupuncture to Induce Labour
Acupuncture to induce labour is contraindicated in:
History of classical or high-risk cesarean section (check with your care provider first)
Uterine rupture
Transmural incision entering the uterine cavity
Active genital herpes infection
Placenta previa
Umbilical cord prolapse
Invasive cervical cancer
Category III fetal heart rate tracing due to associated risks
Booking an appointment for acupuncture to induce labour
Starting around 36-37 weeks, it may be beneficial for you to add a Naturopathic Doctor or Acupuncturist to your team to begin acupuncture to induce labour. I often see clients beginning this type of treatment beginning towards the end of the third trimester and continuing weekly until they give birth.