Acupuncture Labor Assistance

A recent article from “Pediatrics in Review” concluded that:

Continuous support by an experienced woman during labor results in a shorter labor, with a greater than 50% reduction in the need for obstetric interventions that may interfere with early mother-infant contact and interaction.
Continuous labor support for the mother results in an increased incidence and duration of breastfeeding, more affectionate mother-infant contact, and psychological benefits.
As part of our ongoing support of pregnant women, Florida Complete Wellness, Inc. has expanded our services to include acupuncture labor support. This service is provided at home prior to entering the hospital or birth center or at Memorial Hospital Miramar by request.

A labor acupuncturist provides acupuncture prior to and during labor to promote healthy contractions and hasten labor time. Many women also turn to acupuncture as a safe alternative to standard induction treatment.

Acupuncture labor support includes:

-Recognizing the birth as a key life experience that the mother will remember all her life
-Understanding of the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labor
-Staying by the side of the laboring woman throughout the entire labor
-Providing emotional support, physical comfort measures, acupressure and acupuncture when indicated. Sometimes the whole family gets a treatment while waiting during labor!
-Facilitating communication between the laboring woman, her partner, and clinical care providers
-Perceiving her role as one who nutures and protects the woman’s memory of her birth experience.

The acceptance of acupuncture during labor in maternity care is growing rapidly with the recognition of their important contribution to the improved physical outcomes and emotional well-being of mothers and infants.

In preparation for labor, certain acupressure points may be stimulated to help speed contractions, along with the administration of heat and cold for labor pain. Certain positions may be recommended during labor to promote an easier delivery. “Birthing balls” which resemble exercise balls may be used to facilitate moving into these positions. Whether induction, cesearean section or natural birth is selected, the comfort of having a labor doula with you can make your birth experience more enjoyable for you and your partner.