From week 36, your pregnancy makes the transition from the 3rd trimester into the pre-labour phase. The development of the baby is complete, and now the body’s energy is directed towards preparing the mother for childbirth. Pre-birth acupuncture refers to a series of treatments in the final weeks of pregnancy to prepare women for childbirth.
An observational study in New Zealand demonstrated a reduction in duration of labour in a group of women giving birth for the first time who receive labour preparation acupuncture.
Pre-birth treatments help to prepare your body for labour by supporting the ligaments and sinews as they stretch to widen the pelvis, help to soften and ripen the cervix, help the baby descend into the pelvis in the optimal position, as well as supporting energy reserves. Treatments start at week 36, and are then carried out weekly at week 37, 38 and 39. Depending on how the mother is doing, a week 40 treatment may be recommended.
It is also helpful for posterior position, (baby’s back faces mum’s back) and posterior cervix, (where the cervical opening remains in a posterior position). The treatments will be tailored to suit the individual needs of your pregnancy and a variety of points used depending on your specific health needs.