Prenatal Acupuncture & Pregnancy Support in Encinitas
Natural, Evidence-Based Care for Every Stage of Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of profound change - physically, emotionally, and hormonally. At Seed Acupuncture, we help you prepare your body for pregnancy, labor and delivery, postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding, while easing the common discomforts that may arise along the way.
As an Obstetrical Acupuncture Association (OBAA) practitioner, Morgan Hartley, L.Ac. has advanced training in perinatal care and follows current research and safety protocols to provide the highest standard of care. 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!
Common Pregnancy Symptoms Acupuncture Can Help Manage
Nausea and morning sickness
Fatigue and low energy
Insomnia and sleep disturbances
Hypertension or high blood pressure
Acid reflux and indigestion
Constipation
Stress and anxiety
Headaches or migraines
Muscle pain, backaches, and sciatica
Our acupuncture treatments adapt to your changing needs, helping you feel more comfortable and supported throughout your pregnancy.
Acupuncture has been shown in numerous high-quality research studies to be a safe, well-tolerated treatment during pregnancy, offering gentle, effective relief for many common symptoms without the need for medication.
Acupuncture for Every Trimester
First Trimester – Gentle Symptom Relief
During this delicate stage, treatments focus on safely minimizing early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and fatigue. Acupuncture helps you feel more grounded and supported as your body adjusts to the demands of pregnancy.
Second Trimester – Maintaining Balance & Comfort
Often called the “sweet spot” of pregnancy, the second trimester can still bring discomforts like muscle aches, lingering fatigue, and digestive changes. Acupuncture helps maintain hormonal balance, supports healthy circulation, and eases physical strain as your baby grows.
Third Trimester – Birth Preparation & Breech Support
From 36 weeks onward, we focus on gently preparing your body for labor. If your baby is in a breech position, treatment beginning at 34 weeks may help encourage optimal positioning. For planned cesareans, we recommend starting preparatory treatments at 32 weeks to support a smoother recovery.
Postpartum Care – Recovery, Lactation & Hormonal Balance
Postpartum acupuncture supports physical healing, emotional well-being, and breastfeeding. Treatments can improve milk flow, address blocked ducts or mastitis, help regulate mood, and restore energy after childbirth, whether you delivered vaginally or by cesarean.
FAQs – Prenatal Acupuncture
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes. When performed by a licensed practitioner trained in prenatal care, acupuncture is safe in all trimesters and can help manage symptoms without medication.
When should I start prenatal acupuncture?
You can begin at any stage of pregnancy. Many women start in the first trimester for nausea relief and continue through postpartum recovery.
Can acupuncture help with anxiety or emotional stress during pregnancy?
Yes. Acupuncture is a gentle and effective way to support the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and help manage emotional ups and downs during pregnancy.
Is acupuncture safe if I’ve had a previous miscarriage or high-risk pregnancy?
In most cases, yes, and it may actually be especially supportive. Treatments are tailored based on your history, and great care is taken to provide safe, conservative care in sensitive pregnancies. Always consult your OB/midwife and acupuncturist about your specific case.
Can I combine acupuncture with other prenatal care?
Absolutely. Acupuncture works well alongside OB/midwife care, chiropractic, massage, and physical therapy. We often collaborate with other providers to ensure your care is cohesive and well-supported.
Can acupuncture help prepare me for labor?
Yes. Beginning at 36 weeks, weekly acupuncture sessions can help prepare the cervix, encourage optimal fetal positioning, and support a smoother labor.
How often should I come for treatment?
Treatment frequency depends on your symptoms and goals - typically weekly during pregnancy, with adjustments as needed.
