In general, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system and the resulting biochemical changes help promote physical and emotional well-being. Stimulation of certain acupuncture points has been shown to affect areas of the brain that are known to reduce sensitivity to pain and stress, as well as promoting relaxation.

Many people realise that acupuncture can help with pain and musculoskeletal conditions, but fewer are aware of its benefits during pregnancy. Acupuncture is, in fact, ideal during pregnancy as it offers women a safe, natural alternative to medication for minor ailments and is free from side effects. It may be used to provide relief from a wide range of common pregnancy conditions such as pain and aching joints, in helping to combat fatigue, in alleviating digestive issues such as morning sickness or dyspepsia and in helping with mood and anxiety. 

In pregnant women, acupuncture is often used to gently turn a baby that is in the breech position during the third trimester by needling and warming a point on the foot. 

Treatment before the due date is usually part of a pre-birth treatment plan, preparing the body for labour and supporting the mother. Around the due date, acupuncture treatment can be used to encourage the natural onset of labour.

See The British Acupuncture Council website for research references and further information.

The Acupuncture Clinic, Guildford Surrey

Michelle is an experienced, highly qualified traditional acupuncturist and a fully registered member of the British Acupuncture Council. She offers a top quality one-to-one acupuncture service tailored to an individual's needs.

She practises in a relaxing environment at a peaceful clinic on the outskirts of Guildford in Surrey. The Acupuncture Clinic is easily accessible within Guildford itself and from the surrounding areas of Surrey including Cranleigh, Godalming, Farnham, Woking and Farnborough. It is a 15 min drive from both CARE Fertility, Woking and The Surrey Park Clinic in Guildford.