Acupuncture can induce labor and reduce the likelihood of cesarean section and obstetric complications.

A randomized clinical trial involving 67 pregnant women, showed no significant difference in the effectiveness of electro-acupuncture versus the drug misoprostol for labor induction, however the group receiving electro-acupuncture had a higher frequency of vaginal deliveries, less obstetric complications, and higher overall satisfaction. (Gribel et al, 2011) 

In another randomized controlled trial of 56 women over 39 weeks pregnant, the women who received acupuncture in addition to standard medical care vs. standard medical care alone had an average labor time that was 21 hours shorter, were more likely to labor spontaneously without medical induction, and were less likely to deliver by cesarean section (Harper et al, 2006). 

At Maui Health & Wellness we offer acupuncture
​to help the body prepare and ready itself for delivery.

It is often helpful if your birth partner also attends these visits to learn which points will be most useful to stimulate during labor. Acupressure seeds or tacks can also be applied to some of the most useful pressure points, providing gentle yet continuous stimulation, while also making it easier to locate the pressure points.