Acupuncture
Positive results have been reported in trials of lower back pain, pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting (Helmreich et al., 2006, and Smith et al., 2002). Acupuncture seems to not only alleviate low back and pelvic pain, but to increase the capacity for physical activity and to diminish the need for drugs during pregnancy (Field, 2008) (Pennick and Young, 2007).
Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective for version of breech presentation. In a systematic review in 2008, Van den Berg et al reported that acupuncture-type interventions (moxibustion, acupuncture, or electro-acupuncture) are effective in correcting breech presentation compared to expectant management.
Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in cervical ripening, initiating contractions, increasing the frequency of contractions, and shortening the duration of labor in primiparous women.
For more information on acupuncture in general, see the Acupuncture web unit.
