In Chinese medicine, the state of energy flow in the body at the time of labour can influence how smoothly and naturally a labour progresses. Acupuncture is well documented for its ability to stimulate energy(Qi) flow, improve circulation and reduce pain.
Recent research has found that weekly pre-birth acupuncture sessions can reduce mean labour time by up to two hours.
On top of that, feedback 
from midwives is suggesting that pre-birth
acupuncture is reducing the rates of medical inductions, epidurals and
emergency C-sections, while increasing rates of normal vaginal births.
This is great news for women who want to do everything they can to
promote the smoothest and most natural labour possible.
Pre-birth acupuncture can be used from week 37 up to delivery to invigorate blood flow and loosen the pelvic ligaments. Sessions are performed weekly and take about 20minutes each session. Acupuncture is safe, relatively painless and free of side effects. Acupuncture also helps with reducing any stress and anxiety that a woman may have concerning labour, especially if it is her first pregnancy. Any other complications of pregnancy can also be addressed, such as lower back pain, haemorrhoids, insomnia, heartburn, hypertension, oedema, varicose veins and breech position.
To book in your initial pre-birth acupuncture session with Dr Rachel Berners(CM) @ the Eltham or Port Melbourne Endota Spa call Rachel on 0417325393.
Article written by Dr Rachel Berners(CM) with extracts from 'The Essential Guide to Pregnancy & Childbirth', Betts, 2006).