Postpartum & Acupuncture
The postpartum period brings rapid physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. Acupuncture helps support recovery by regulating the nervous system, promoting circulation, and restoring internal balance after birth.
How Acupuncture Supports the Postpartum Body
1. Hormonal Rebalancing
Supports normalization of progesterone, estrogen & oxytocin patterns
Helps regulate postpartum mood fluctuations
Encourages steadier energy and sleep rhythms
2. Emotional Wellness
Reduces anxiety, overwhelm and irritability
Supports resilience during the adjustment to life with a newborn
Helps calm the stress response and promote relaxation
3. Physical Recovery
Supports tissue healing after vaginal birth or cesarean
Helps reduce inflammation and discomfort
Supports pelvic circulation and abdominal recovery
4. Sleep & Energy Support
Encourages deeper rest
Helps the body adapt to irregular sleep patterns
Regulates the nervous system to reduce fatigue
5. Digestive & Elimination Support
Helps ease constipation or sluggish digestion
Supports abdominal tension and bloating
Encourages healthy appetite and digestion
6. Lactation Support (Supportive Only)
Helps promote circulation and relaxation
Supports comfort during feeding transitions
Summary
Acupuncture supports postpartum physical healing, emotional stability, hormonal recalibration, and overall resilience during the transition into early parenthood.
References
Chen, H. Y., et al. (2010). The effectiveness of acupuncture on postpartum depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 124(1–2), 9–16.
McDowell, A., et al. (2019). Acupuncture for postpartum pain: a randomized controlled trial. Pain Medicine, 20(8), 1634–1642.
Tsoli, S., et al. (2021). Acupuncture for postpartum recovery: a systematic review. Women and Birth, 34(6), e580–e588.
Streitberger, K., et al. (2013). Acupuncture in postpartum mastitis and breastfeeding issues. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Chae, H., et al. (2019). The role of acupuncture in regulating the autonomic nervous system postpartum. Integrative Medicine Research, 8(2), 89–94.