Pregnancy Acupuncture in London, Trimester by Trimester

Not pregnant yet?

If you are still trying to conceive, our natural fertility page covers that stage, and our IVF support page is for anyone having assisted treatment. If you are pregnant after IVF, let us know at your first appointment so we can take your treatment history into account.

• Natural fertility acupuncture
• IVF acupuncture support
• Why prepare your body for pregnancy?

First trimester

Many people first get in touch in the early weeks, often while coping with nausea, tiredness and the worry that can come with early pregnancy. Sessions are a quiet, unhurried space to rest, and each one is tailored to how you are feeling that week.

If sickness is severe, or you cannot keep food or fluids down, please speak to your GP or midwife first. Acupuncture sits alongside their care, not in place of it.

• Choosing a prenatal supplement

Second trimester

As your body changes, people often come in with disturbed sleep, new aches, heartburn, low mood or simply feeling stretched. We talk through what has been hardest since your last visit and shape the session around it, so the time is focused on what matters to you.

If you are taking medication for any of these, keep following your GP or midwife's advice. We will ask about anything you are taking so treatment stays appropriate.

Third trimester and preparing for birth

In the final weeks, back and pelvic aches, broken sleep and nerves about the birth are common reasons to book. Some people like regular sessions at this stage as dedicated time to rest and prepare.

If your midwife has raised a specific concern, such as your baby's position or going past your due date, follow their advice and tell us at your appointment, so we can talk through what is appropriate for you.

Safety in pregnancy

Pregnancy acupuncture is complementary care. It works alongside your midwife, GP or obstetrician and does not replace your antenatal appointments, scans or medical advice.

At your first appointment we ask how many weeks pregnant you are, about any medications, and about any complications or concerns your maternity team has mentioned. Certain acupuncture points are avoided during pregnancy, and treatment is adjusted as your pregnancy progresses. If something needs medical review first, we will say so plainly.

Single-use sterile needles are used throughout. If you have bleeding, pain, reduced baby movements or feel unwell, contact your midwife or maternity unit straight away rather than waiting for an acupuncture appointment.

What a session involves

Your first visit begins with a consultation about your pregnancy, health history and how you are feeling. Treatment follows in a calm, private room, and we adjust how you are positioned as your pregnancy progresses so you stay comfortable. You can ask to change position or pause at any time.

How often people come varies. Some book a short course around a particular stage, others come at intervals through their pregnancy. We will suggest a plan at your first visit, with no pressure to commit beyond what feels right.

Most people find sessions deeply settling. Mild tiredness afterwards is the most common short-term response, so it helps to allow a little time to rest.

After your baby arrives

Care does not have to stop at birth. Our postnatal page explains how we support recovery, rest and wellbeing in the weeks and months after your baby is born.

• Postnatal acupuncture after birth

Pregnancy acupuncture at our London clinics

You can book pregnancy acupuncture at any of our three central and east London clinics. Choose the location that fits around work and antenatal appointments, or move between them as your pregnancy progresses.

• Wimpole Street (Lister House, W1G), near Bond Street and Oxford Circus
• Marylebone (Crawford Street, W1H), near Baker Street and Marble Arch
• Hackney (Amhurst Terrace, E8), near Hackney Downs and Dalston

• Clinic addresses, map and hours
• Treatment fees

Common questions

When in pregnancy can I start acupuncture?

People get in touch at every stage, from the first weeks to the final month. When you enquire, tell us how many weeks pregnant you are and we will let you know whether it is appropriate to start and what sessions would involve at your stage.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Acupuncture in pregnancy should only be given by a practitioner who knows you are pregnant. We ask about your pregnancy, medications and any complications at your first appointment, avoid certain points during pregnancy and use single-use sterile needles. If anything suggests you need medical review first, we will tell you plainly, and your midwife or GP remains the right person for any medical concerns.

Does pregnancy acupuncture replace my midwife or antenatal care?

No. Acupuncture is complementary care that sits alongside your midwife, GP or obstetrician. Keep attending all antenatal appointments and scans, and follow your maternity team's advice.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your stage and what you would like support with. Some people come for a short course, others at intervals through pregnancy. We suggest a plan at your first appointment, and you are never asked to commit to more than feels right. Fees are confirmed on enquiry.