Acupuncture for Labor Preparation & Breech Position
Gentle, Natural Support for Your Birth Journey
The final weeks of pregnancy are a time of anticipation and preparation. Whether you’re planning a vaginal birth or a scheduled cesarean, acupuncture can help your body get ready for labor naturally, gently, and effectively.
At Seed Acupuncture, we offer labor preparation acupuncture beginning at 36 weeks to help encourage cervical ripening, support optimal fetal positioning, and stimulate the body’s natural release of oxytocin and endorphins to prepare for labor.
If your baby is in a breech position, we encourage beginning treatment at 32 weeks to encourage fetal turning.
Benefits of Labor Preparation Acupuncture
Research and clinical experience suggest that labor preparation acupuncture can support cervical ripening and readiness for labor, encourage optimal fetal positioning, promote pelvic relaxation and reduce muscular tension, regulate the hormones involved in labor onset, ease stress and anxiety before birth, and support energy and stamina for delivery.
You and Your Baby Are in Experienced Hands
As an Obstetrical Acupuncture Association (OBAA) practitioner, Morgan Hartley, L.Ac. has advanced training in perinatal care and follows current research and established guidelines to ensure the highest level of safety and effectiveness. Her clinical focus spans the full spectrum of pregnancy support - from managing first-trimester symptoms to preparing for labor and promoting postpartum recovery. Care is often coordinated with midwives, OBs, doulas, and other providers to ensure a collaborative and well-supported experience throughout each stage.
Questions? Start Here!
Moxibustion for Breech Presentation
How It Works
Breech presentation occurs when the baby is positioned feet- or bottom-first instead of head-down. Acupuncture and moxibustion work by stimulating specific points that can encourage movement of the baby and relaxation in the uterus, potentially allowing the baby to turn.
Moxibustion is a gentle heat therapy using the herb Ai ye (mugwort) to stimulate specific acupuncture points, as shown in this picture.
Evidence-Based Results
Several studies have shown that women who receive treatments of combined acupuncture and moxibustion between 33 and 35 weeks are >50% more likely to have their babies turn to a head-down position compared to those receiving standard care.
When to Begin Treatment
Breech presentation: Start at 32 weeks for best results
Labor preparation: Begin at 36 weeks for gradual, natural cervical ripening
Scheduled cesarean prep: Start at 32 weeks to support recovery and overall health
FAQs – Labor Preparation & Breech Acupuncture
Is labor preparation acupuncture safe for me and my baby?
Yes. We use gentle, pregnancy-safe points and techniques appropriate for each stage of pregnancy. Several research studies demonstrate the strong safety profile of acupuncture in pregnancy.
How many sessions will I need?
For labor preparation, we generally recommend weekly treatments starting at 36 weeks. For breech, daily or every-other-day sessions over 1-2 weeks are ideal, with moxibustion instructions to continue at home.
Will acupuncture induce labor?
Labor preparation acupuncture encourages natural readiness and balance, but it does not force labor before your body is ready.
Can I combine acupuncture with my OB or midwife’s care?
Absolutely. We work collaboratively with your medical team to ensure your treatment is safe and well-coordinated.