ACUPUNCTURE
CHILDBIRTH
TEAM (ACT)

Brighton & Sussex

Research

research

Research into acupuncture continues to grow, with many studies combining results from multiple clinical trials. While findings can vary depending on how acupuncture is used, research helps us understand where acupuncture may be most helpful and how it can safely support wellbeing.

Fertility and IVF Support

Research looking at acupuncture alongside IVF shows mixed but encouraging results.

  • Several systematic reviews suggest acupuncture may improve clinical pregnancy rates, particularly when used as part of a longer course of treatment rather than only around embryo transfer¹ ².
  • Evidence for improving live birth rates is less consistent, with some reviews showing benefit and others finding no clear difference when compared with sham (placebo) acupuncture³ ⁴.
  • Studies suggest better outcomes when acupuncture starts earlier in the IVF cycle and when treatments are given regularly over time².

There is consistent evidence that acupuncture may help reduce stress, anxiety and discomfort during IVF treatment⁵.

Breech Presentation

Acupuncture and moxibustion have been studied for babies in a breech position.

  • Research suggests that moxibustion, often combined with acupuncture, may increase the chance of a baby turning to a head-down position when used before 37 weeks⁶ ⁷.
  • A Cochrane review found moderate-certainty evidence that moxibustion alongside usual care reduces the likelihood of breech presentation at birth⁸.
  • Turning a baby does not always reduce caesarean section rates, as many factors influence birth outcomes.

Pain, Nausea and Wellbeing in Pregnancy

  • Pelvic and low back pain: Systematic reviews show acupuncture can significantly reduce pregnancy-related pelvic and low back pain and improve daily functioning⁹.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Evidence suggests acupuncture may help reduce pregnancy-related nausea, particularly when used alongside conventional care¹⁰.
  • Emotional wellbeing: Emerging research suggests acupuncture may support emotional wellbeing during pregnancy, including anxiety and stress¹¹.

Safety

Large reviews show that acupuncture is generally safe during pregnancy when provided by a qualified practitioner.

  • Most side effects are mild and short-lived, such as temporary soreness or bruising¹².
  • Serious complications are extremely rare.
  • Reviews have found no clear evidence that traditionally discussed “forbidden points” increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labour when acupuncture is used appropriately¹³.

What This Means for You

  • Acupuncture can be a helpful supportive treatment during fertility treatment and pregnancy.
  • Research suggests benefits are most likely when treatment is individualised and provided over time.
  • Acupuncture is considered safe when delivered by qualified practitioners and used alongside standard medical care.

Your acupuncturist can discuss how current research relates to your individual needs and work alongside your wider healthcare team.

References

https://doi.org/10.2147/IJWH.S512247

  • NIH / PMC.The safety of acupuncture during pregnancy: Systematic review

https://doi.org/10.1136/acupmed-2013-010480