What Is Acupuncture and How Does It Work?

Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy? Acupuncture is a time-tested, holistic treatment that involves inserting ultra-thin needles into specific points of the body to stimulate healing, regulate energy flow, and restore balance. In pregnancy, this ancient technique is used to ease common discomforts and support both mother and baby naturally.

The Body’s Response to Acupuncture During Pregnancy

When done by a trained expert, acupuncture gently calms the nervous system, increases blood flow, balances hormones, and relieves tension—all without medications. That’s why so many moms-to-be turn to acupuncture for safe, drug-free relief.

Experience Safe and Gentle Pregnancy Relief.
Schedule your personalized acupuncture consultation with Aphrodite Fertility today.
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Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?

Backed by Research and Clinical Experience

Yes, acupuncture is considered safe during pregnancy—when performed by professionals with prenatal expertise. Clinical studies have shown that it’s not only safe but beneficial in reducing several common pregnancy complaints.

The Importance of Choosing a Trained Specialist

Not all acupuncturists specialize in pregnancy. That’s why it’s important to choose practitioners—like those at Aphrodite Fertility in San Diego—who are trained in perinatal care and understand how to work with the body during this delicate time.

Aphrodite Fertility’s Expertise in Pregnancy Acupuncture

The team at Aphrodite Fertility—Emily Marson, Ghoncheh Ayazi, and Chloé Banales—are known for their compassionate care and clinical expertise. Their approach is rooted in science and personalized to each stage of pregnancy.

The Benefits of Acupuncture in Each Trimester

First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)

Managing Morning Sickness and Nausea

One of acupuncture’s best-known benefits during early pregnancy is reducing nausea and vomiting. It can calm the digestive system and help you function when your stomach has other plans.

Reducing Fatigue and Anxiety

Hormonal shifts can make you feel like you’ve been hit by a truck. Acupuncture helps restore your energy and calm your mind, even when you’re overwhelmed by it all.

Supporting Hormonal Balance

Acupuncture gently supports the endocrine system, helping your body adjust to rapid hormonal changes and supporting a healthy pregnancy foundation.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13–27)

Relieving Back Pain and Sciatica

As your belly grows, so does the strain on your back and hips. Acupuncture can relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and ease nerve pain like sciatica without the need for painkillers.

Promoting Restful Sleep

Can’t sleep because you’re hot, itchy, or just plain uncomfortable? Acupuncture can help regulate your sleep cycle and soothe your nervous system so you can finally get some rest.

Helping with Heartburn and Digestion

The second trimester often brings heartburn, bloating, and constipation. Acupuncture can improve digestive function, reduce acid reflux, and support gut health naturally.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–Birth)

Preparing the Body for Labor

Acupuncture is often used to prepare the cervix, soften tissues, and encourage the body to start labor on its own. Treatments may become more frequent as you near your due date.

Easing Pelvic Pressure and Swelling

That end-of-pregnancy pressure and puffiness is no joke. Acupuncture supports circulation, reduces swelling in the legs and feet, and helps you feel more mobile and comfortable.

Encouraging Optimal Baby Positioning

Specific acupuncture points can help encourage the baby into the ideal position for birth—especially helpful if baby is breech or not yet engaged.

Related article: Effective Moxibustion Techniques for Turning a Breech Baby at Home

Trust Your Pregnancy Care to Experts.
Learn how our trimester-specific acupuncture treatments can support you.
Book your consultation with Aphrodite Fertility in San Diego.
Text us at 858.333.7688 or fill out our contact form!

Emotional Support and Stress Reduction Throughout Pregnancy

Calming the Nervous System

Pregnancy is beautiful—but it can also be stressful. Acupuncture activates your body’s relaxation response, lowering cortisol levels and supporting emotional well-being.

A Grounding Ritual for Expecting Mothers

Many women find acupuncture to be their “me time” during pregnancy—a quiet space to connect with their bodies and their babies, and to feel cared for on a deeper level.

Why San Diego Moms Choose Aphrodite Fertility

Personalized Pregnancy Care Plans

Every mom, every body, and every pregnancy is different. Aphrodite Fertility creates completely personalized acupuncture care plans, tailored to your specific trimester and symptoms.

Warm, Empathetic, and Professional Environment

You’ll feel welcomed, heard, and supported at every visit. Their approach blends medical knowledge with holistic compassion to guide you through pregnancy with confidence and ease.

What to Expect During a Pregnancy Acupuncture Session

Gentle Needling and Safe Points

During pregnancy, specific acupuncture points are chosen to avoid any risks. Needling is extremely gentle and always aligned with trimester-specific safety.

Adjusting the Approach by Trimester

Treatments evolve as your pregnancy progresses—from supporting implantation in the early days to preparing your body for delivery in the final weeks.

Comfort, Relaxation, and Emotional Check-Ins

Appointments at Aphrodite Fertility are never rushed. You’ll have time to share how you’re feeling physically and emotionally, and treatments always consider both aspects.

Embrace a Balanced Pregnancy with Acupuncture

Pregnancy is a transformative journey—and acupuncture offers a beautiful way to navigate it with more comfort, balance, and connection. Whether you’re struggling with morning sickness, back pain, or anxiety, acupuncture provides gentle, effective relief that’s safe in every trimester. With expert care from Aphrodite Fertility in San Diego, you’ll have a team by your side who understands what your body needs—at every stage of your pregnancy.

Experience a more comfortable and balanced pregnancy. Discover the gentle, effective relief that acupuncture can provide throughout each trimester.

Schedule your personalized pregnancy acupuncture consultation with Aphrodite Fertility today!

Text us at 858.333.7688 or fill out the contact form on our website.

Let us support you on your journey to motherhood. (We respond Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 4 PM.)