Acupuncture and its effects on pregnancy and labour induction
Using acupuncture to supporting women to have a spontaneous labour has always been a big part of my practice. Many people ask me when is a good time to start acupuncture when they are wanting to use it support the natural onset of labour. Rule of thumb is from 36 weeks of pregnancy, and sometimes earlier if there is an induction planed for early than 40 weeks.
While reducing stress and encouraging the production of endorphins, Acupuncture is thought to support the body in producing hormonal changes that the body goes through to move into labour. At the same time it increases blood flow to the cervix and uterus for effective contraction when the time is right. Most importantly, acupuncture is not forcing your body to do anything it is not ready to do.
A study title’ Acupuncture in Postdate pregnancy Management’ 2018 investigated the effects of acupuncture on pregnant women and their need for labour induction, particularly in cases of prolonged pregnancy. This study aimed to determine whether acupuncture can help to reduce the need for pharmacological labour induction, which is often associated with side effects for both the mother and the baby.
Acupuncture vs. Pharmacological Labour Induction
When a pregnancy continues beyond its due date, doctors may opt for labour induction to help initiate the birthing process. Common methods of induction include the use of prostaglandins or oxytocin infusion. While these methods can be effective, they can also lead to complications and side effects for both the mother and the baby. Acupuncture, on the other hand, is a traditional Chinese medicine technique used to help soften the cervix and induce uterine contractions, potentially reducing the need for pharmacological labour induction.
Study overview
The study involved 375 pregnant women who had not yet given birth after 40 + 2 weeks of gestation. These women were divided into two groups: 112 women who received acupuncture treatments and 263 women who received standard care (the control group). The acupuncture treatments were administered every other day starting at 40 + 2 weeks until 41 + 4 weeks. If the women had not given birth by 41 + 5 weeks, they were scheduled for pharmacological labour induction.
Results of the study
The results of the study showed that the rate of labour induction was significantly lower among the women who received acupuncture compared to those who did not (19.6% vs. 38%; p < 0.01). Specifically, the women who underwent acupuncture had a lower rate of induction due to prolonged pregnancy (5.3% vs. 10.1%; p < 0.01).
Conclusions
The study suggests that acupuncture, when applied during the final weeks of pregnancy, can effectively reduce the need for labour induction, particularly in cases of prolonged pregnancy at 41 + 5 weeks. Additionally, acupuncture appears to help decrease the use of oxytocin, which can have adverse effects on birth outcomes.
Implications for Pregnant Women and Healthcare Providers
The findings of this study have significant implications for pregnant women and healthcare providers. By reducing the need for pharmacological labour induction, acupuncture can potentially decrease the risk of side effects and complications for both the mother and the baby. This makes acupuncture a valuable alternative treatment option for pregnant women who are approaching their due dates.
Acupuncture offers a promising alternative to pharmacological labour induction for pregnant women, particularly those experiencing prolonged pregnancy. By reducing the need for labour-inducing drugs, acupuncture can help to decrease the risk of complications and improve overall birth outcomes.
Reference:
Acupuncture in Postdate Pregnancy Management