Yes, acupuncture is safe during pregnancy. However, your acupuncturist will probably use fewer needles for a shorter duration than usual. There are some areas that should be avoided due to their anatomical position, as well as some points that can induce labor in a patient who is in a weakened state. Acupuncturists should avoid these points during pregnancy.

There are varying views on this, but I generally refrain from treatment of any kind if the pregnancy is progressing well and there is no history of complications during a previous pregnancy. However, when problems do arise, from morning sickness to high blood pressure and premature labor, acupuncture can be very helpful.

Remember that acupuncture supports your body's natural systems (organs, glands, tissues, cells and biochemistry), as opposed to medications that usually replace and/or inhibit these systems. Acupuncture can relieve symptoms while adjusting an imbalance at a deeper level. For example, if your blood glucose is high during pregnancy, acupuncture serves to regulate it by adjusting the qi, or energy, in the organs and glands that are in charge of balancing your blood sugar, rather than only manipulating the insulin levels.

Chinese medicine methods can be used in conjunction with western medicine. Many of my patients with serious pregnancy complications are on some kind of medication when they come into my office for treatment. It is helpful for your acupuncturist to be completely familiar with the medications that are being used, or better yet, to collaborate with your physician.