Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

The short answer: generally yes, with caveats

Acupuncture has been used in pregnancy for centuries, and there is a growing body of research supporting its safety and efficacy for pregnancy-related complaints. It is not contraindicated in pregnancy — but it does require a practitioner who knows which points to avoid and when.

Which points are avoided during pregnancy

Several acupuncture points have a strong descending or moving action that is traditionally avoided during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. These include points on the lower abdomen, certain points on the lower back, and specific distal points thought to stimulate uterine contractions — such as Spleen 6, Large Intestine 4, and Bladder 60.

A practitioner who is not familiar with pregnancy protocols may inadvertently use these points. This is why it matters to see a practitioner with specific experience in obstetric acupuncture, and to disclose your pregnancy — or that you are trying to conceive — before treatment begins.

Trimester-by-trimester considerations

First trimester (weeks 1–12): The most cautious period. Most practitioners limit treatment to gentle, distal points and avoid abdominal or lower back needling entirely. Acupuncture for nausea and fatigue — very common complaints — is generally considered safe and is well-supported by evidence.

Second trimester (weeks 13–26): Generally considered the safest period for treatment. A wider range of points becomes appropriate. Acupuncture for pelvic girdle pain, sciatica, and heartburn is commonly used and studied in this trimester.

Third trimester (weeks 27–40): Specific protocols exist for breech presentation (moxibustion at Bladder 67), labour preparation, and back pain. These should only be performed by practitioners with specific obstetric training.

What to tell your midwife or OB

Inform your midwife or obstetrician that you are receiving acupuncture. In the Netherlands, most midwifery practices are familiar with acupuncture and have no objection — but they should be in the loop. If you are receiving acupuncture for a specific pregnancy complication rather than general wellbeing, make sure both your midwife and acupuncturist are aware of what the other is doing.

• Always tell your acupuncturist you are pregnant before any needles are placed.
• Ask specifically whether they have experience treating pregnant patients.
• Inform your midwife or OB and keep both practitioners in the loop.
• Avoid practitioners who have not worked with pregnant patients before — ask directly if unsure.

Finding a practitioner with pregnancy experience

Use the Iasis directory to find NVA and ZHONG-registered practitioners near you. When contacting a practice, ask whether they treat pregnant patients and which trimester they are comfortable working in. The insurance checker will confirm whether your policy covers a visit.