Pregnancy is a deeply personal and transformational time—filled with anticipation, changes, and the occasional challenge (hello, morning sickness and sore hips). At Womb to World, we use the time-tested wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to gently support you through each stage of your pregnancy. Whether you’re newly pregnant, managing the symptoms of the first trimester, or preparing for birth, acupuncture offers natural, safe, and research-backed care to help you feel more balanced, empowered, and at ease.
Early Pregnancy Support
The early stages of pregnancy can feel like an emotional rollercoaster—joy, worry, exhaustion, rinse, repeat. Acupuncture helps calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and regulate hormones to help you settle into the journey ahead. Research has shown that acupuncture may help balance mood and promote early pregnancy wellbeing by supporting neuroendocrine pathways (1).
At Womb to World, we combine this care with supportive resources and referrals to allied health providers to help you feel fully held—mind, body, and spirit.
Morning Sickness & Fatigue
Nausea, food aversions, and fatigue? You’re not alone. Acupuncture is a gentle, drug-free way to reduce the severity and frequency of morning sickness symptoms. Studies show that acupuncture may help regulate the digestive system and reduce nausea in early pregnancy (2).
Many of our patients report feeling not only less queasy, but more energised and emotionally grounded after just a few sessions.
Digestive Comfort as Baby Grows
As your pregnancy progresses, hormonal shifts and the growing baby can bring new digestive challenges—think bloating, reflux, and constipation. Acupuncture can support smoother digestion by regulating Qi (energy) flow and calming the digestive tract (3). With regular sessions, many women experience improved gut comfort and more consistent energy levels.
Relieving Musculoskeletal Pain
Growing a human is beautiful—but it can be physically demanding. Back pain, pelvic pressure, and hip discomfort are common, especially in the second and third trimesters. Acupuncture increases blood flow to affected areas and can reduce inflammation, offering relief from pain without the need for medication (4).
At Womb to World, we also incorporate gentle bodywork and pregnancy massage where needed to support postural alignment and comfort.
Support for Breech Babies
If your baby is breech, acupuncture and a technique called moxibustion (using a warming herb over specific acupuncture points) may help encourage optimal positioning. Research suggests that these techniques can improve the chance of spontaneous cephalic version (baby turning head down) when used between 34 and 36 weeks of pregnancy (5). Our practitioners are skilled in this gentle and non-invasive approach to breech support.
Labour Preparation
As your due date approaches, your body begins its incredible transition into labour. Acupuncture in the final weeks of pregnancy can support cervical ripening, help regulate hormones, and calm the nervous system. Many women use this time to relax, connect to their body, and prepare mentally and physically for birth (6).
Our labour prep sessions focus on promoting readiness—not rushing—so your body can do what it was made to do, in its own time.
You’re Not Alone
At Womb to World, we know every pregnancy is different. Our care is tailored to your unique needs, whether you’re navigating your first trimester or counting down to baby number three. Our experienced acupuncturists—including Angela, Shuen, Teresa, and Sarah—create a nurturing, respectful space where you are listened to and supported holistically.
Ready to Feel More Supported?
Book your pregnancy acupuncture session today or get in touch to learn more. We’d love to walk alongside you on this beautiful journey.
References:
Betts D. & Lennox S. (2006). Acupuncture for pre-birth treatment: an observational study. Complementary Therapies in Medicine.
Smith C.A., et al. (2002). Acupuncture to treat nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial. Birth.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Digestive Function – NIH.gov
Ee C., et al. (2008). Acupuncture for pelvic and back pain in pregnancy: a systematic review. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Cardini F., Weixin H. (1998). Moxibustion for correction of breech presentation. Journal of the American Medical Association.
West Z. (2001). Acupuncture in Pregnancy and Childbirth.