Preparing for Labor and Delivery
Natural Ways To Prepare Your Body for Labor
Feel relaxed and prepared so you can be at your healthiest during this important time.
Mental and Physical Preparation for Labor and Delivery
You and your baby have come a long way and now it’s time to get ready for labor and delivery. While nesting, prepping the baby’s room, and baby showers may be fun, trying to be fully ready for birth can become a bit overwhelming. We’re here to provide a way to prepare your body, both physically and mentally, for a smoother labor and delivery experience.
Our Holistic Approach to Delivery and Labor
There is a good amount of physical and mental preparation needed for this stage of pregnancy. It’s important to find ways to stay physically healthy and also get in the right state of mind for labor and delivery. We’ll work with you to help you relax and reduce stress so you can feel your healthiest during this important time.
Natural Ways To Prepare for Labor
Giving birth is one of the most natural things in the world, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a lot of hard work! Eating nutrient-rich foods, getting daily exercise, and practicing mindfulness are all great ways to prep for labor. We’ll help create a fortifying treatment plan through Chinese medicine that will promote your best state of being.
Acupuncture
Herbal Medicine
Acupuncture and E-Stim
Acupuncture and Labor Preparation
Acupuncture is one way some people prepare, physically and mentally, for labor and delivery. It’s used to support circulation and the body’s own recovery, and to ease stress and anxiety in the weeks before birth. Alongside your OB or midwife, it’s one part of your support team.
When to start: Labor preparation acupuncture starts at the end of the 37th week of pregnancy. Our treatment plan is 3 sessions per week until the 42nd week of pregnancy, a scheduled induction, or the spontaneous onset of labor.
If you’re earlier than 37 weeks and looking for options, past your due date, or have a scheduled induction coming up, call us or book online and we’ll talk through what makes sense for you.
Acupuncture To Promote the Onset of Labor
Sometimes a medical situation makes induction necessary, and sometimes people simply want support as their due date approaches. Acupuncture does not induce labor, but it can promote the onset of labor.
After the 38th week, acupuncture uses certain points to promote the body’s readiness for labor, including the normal changes of late pregnancy such as softening and opening of the cervix. It’s supportive care, not a replacement for a medically indicated induction, and we work alongside your OB or midwife.
During treatment, patients can expect acupuncture needles placed on the lower legs and hands using electroacupuncture (e-stim). We may also use additional acupuncture points to address other third trimester symptoms you may be experiencing.
Herbs for Labor and Delivery
There are a few Chinese herbs and herb formulas that can help promote the onset of labor. We also have some formula recommendations that help with recovery from labor and delivery, however, Chinese herbal formulas are tailored to the individual and must be taken under the care of a qualified herbalist. Please come in for a consultation if you are interested in Chinese herbs and formulas to assist during this time.
Herbs To Induce Labor
There are a few herbal remedies to induce labor, but Chinese herbs and herbal formulas are a completely customized medicine that is developed by a trained and qualified herbalist for each individual patient. We recommend only taking herbs in conjunction with other therapies and only after your 39th week.
Herbs for Labor Pain
We do not recommend taking herbs during labor. Labor is an intense and special time, and we generally recommend a team of healthcare professionals supporting you, including a midwife, OB/GYN, doula, and acupuncturist. Acupuncture may help you cope with the intensity of contractions as part of that team.
What Western Research Says About Acupuncture Around Labor
Western research on acupuncture for induction of labor is limited. A Cochrane review on acupuncture or acupressure for induction of labour found that acupuncture may improve the readiness of the cervix for labor (measured by Bishop score, in one trial of 125 women).
It found no clear differences in other induction-related outcomes, including the use of oxytocin to speed labor, the use of other induction methods, and the time from treatment to birth. The reviewers said more well-designed trials are needed. Limited observational studies suggest no known adverse effects to the baby.
A 2025 meta-analysis of randomized trials of acupuncture for induction of labor after 37 weeks found it was not associated with the onset of spontaneous labor, epidural analgesia use, mode of delivery, or newborn Apgar scores.
For comfort during labor, a Cochrane review of acupuncture and acupressure for pain management during labour concluded that acupuncture may increase satisfaction with pain management and reduce the use of pharmacological pain relief. For most other comparisons, the evidence was too uncertain to draw conclusions.
So here is the honest picture. Western research has not shown that acupuncture reliably changes how labor starts. Some people value acupuncture as part of how they prepare for birth.
In our practice, acupuncture is clinically effective at promoting the onset of labor. Many patients who follow their treatment plan go into spontaneous labor, and those who still need a medical induction have reported smoother, shorter inductions.
These are clinical observations, not controlled trials, and individual results vary and aren’t guaranteed. Your OB or midwife stays in charge of any decision about induction.
Helping You Prepare for Labor Naturally
These are individual experiences, and results vary. Acupuncture is supportive care alongside your medical team and doesn’t guarantee a particular birth outcome.
Your support helped me deliver naturally—without a C-section
I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks for your wonderful sessions and the care you provided to both me and my baby.
Our baby was born on Monday, October 13! Contractions began naturally on the night of Saturday, October 11, just before the scheduled induction. Thanks to your support, I was able to deliver vaginally without a C-section. Although the entire process took nearly 30 hours in the hospital, the second stage of labor went very smoothly.
Even Mr. (or Ms.) Fibroid behaved well and didn’t interfere with the delivery — I experienced no heavy bleeding and didn’t require a blood transfusion. I truly believe this outcome is thanks to your care and expertise. I’m deeply grateful.
While I’m currently navigating sleepless nights and some post-delivery discomfort, I’m looking forward to returning for your postpartum recovery sessions once I’m able to walk comfortably.
Thank you again for everything!
Read MoreI love that it’s a drug free...
This is my second round of treatment with Transformational Acupuncture for pregnancy migraines. I saw them during my first and now second pregnancy and have found it to be the only thing to provide relief. I love that it’s a drug free, safe solution and I don’t know what I would have done without their expert treatment.
Read MoreI've sent many clients to Transformational Acupuncture...
Adam is a delight! I have sent many clients to them over the years and have received so much wonderful feedback about their care. I know that when I refer someone to their care, my clients will be treated as individuals and equals in developing with their plan of care. Acupuncture has incredible healing power and is a powerful practice on its own or in conjunction with other treatment modalities.
Read MoreQuiz – When Will I Go Into Labor?
When Will I Go Into Labor?
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Prepare for Labor
Both your body and your mind are preparing for labor. Some things in your body happen naturally but there are many ways to take care of yourself and your baby during this time. Of course, staying healthy is a big priority. Eat nutrient-dense foods, get a good amount of sleep, exercise, and find ways to relax. You can also take time to get some logistics squared away like packing a hospital bag, writing down your birth plan, and setting up a support system. Getting on top of these details can help you feel prepared and ready.
How Does the Body Prepare for Labor?
The body prepares for labor in a number of ways in the weeks leading up to delivery. The baby will drop down into the pelvis, your cervix will begin to dilate and efface (thin), and you may experience cramping and lower back pain as your muscles and joints are stretching and shifting in preparation for birth. This is also when there is less amniotic fluid, which is why weight gain typically stops. You may also feel fatigued, like you did in the first trimester, as you prepare for labor.
When Does Your Body Start Preparing for Labor?
Your body starts preparing for labor in the last 2-4 weeks leading up to delivery. If this is your first pregnancy, this is when your baby will drop. Your cervix will start to dilate and thin but this happens at different rates depending on the person.
How Does Baby Prepare for Labor?
Your baby is still growing and will get into position for labor in the weeks leading up to the birth.
What Does Induce Labor Mean?
Inducing labor is when your healthcare team starts the labor process by medication or other means (like breaking the amniotic sac).
What Induces Labor?
Inducing labor is when a healthcare provider starts labor instead of labor starting on its own. A healthcare provider can induce labor in several ways, including medication to dilate and efface the cervix, medication to start contractions, breaking the amniotic sac, or using a cervical ripening balloon.
Is Induced Labor More Painful Than Natural?
Induced labor can be more painful than natural labor. This is because contractions come on more quickly and stronger, as opposed to slowly building up.
How Long Does Induced Labor Take?
Inducing labor can take as little as a few hours or as long as a few days. First-time pregnancies usually take longer.
What Will Induce Labor Naturally?
There are several ways to induce labor naturally through physical movement and what you eat. Certain exercises, including intercourse and nipple stimulation, can induce labor. Red raspberry leaf and castor oil can also help. Acupuncture is another way to naturally promote the onset of labor.
Can Exercise Induce Labor?
Yes, exercise can induce labor. However, before doing any exercises, it’s important to discuss options with your healthcare provider(s). They can help you find healthy ways to promote the onset of labor.
What Exercises Induce Labor?
There are several exercises and poses that can help induce labor. Some options include sitting on a birthing ball with legs wide, pelvic tilts, butterfly pose, and walking. Before exercising, consult with your healthcare provider(s) to ensure you are being safe.
Does Sex Induce Labor?
Yes, intercourse can induce labor if you are full or past-term. Genital stimulation, nipple stimulation, and orgasm can increase oxytocin levels which is a hormone produced by your body to trigger labor contractions when you’re ready to deliver.
Can Orgasm Help Induce Labor?
Yes, orgasms can help induce labor once the baby is at full or past term.
Does Nipple Stimulation Induce Labor?
Yes, nipple stimulation and genital stimulation can help induce labor.
How Does Nipple Stimulation Work To Induce Labor?
Nipple stimulation can increase levels of oxytocin which is a hormone produced by your body to trigger labor contractions when you’re ready to deliver.
How To Stimulate Nipples To Induce Labor
Nipple stimulation can release oxytocin, the hormone that drives labor contractions. Nipple sensitivity and pleasure derived from nipple stimulation vary from person to person.
How Long Does Nipple Stimulation Take To Induce Labor?
There is no particular length of time nipples need to be stimulated in order to increase levels of oxytocin. It is down to the individual’s nipple sensitivity and desire for nipple stimulation.
Does Acupuncture Induce Labor?
Not in the Western medical sense. Induction means medications or procedures a healthcare provider uses to start labor, and acupuncture does not do that. Acupuncture can promote the onset of labor by supporting the body’s readiness for it.
We find it clinically effective at promoting the onset of labor, though Western research on whether it changes when labor starts is limited and mixed, and individual results vary.
Is Acupuncture Safe To Induce Labor?
Acupuncture by a licensed practitioner is widely used in pregnancy and is generally considered low-risk. Western research on safety specifically around labor is limited, so we coordinate with your OB or midwife, and it isn’t a replacement for a medically indicated induction. Talk with your healthcare provider about what is right for you.
How Does Acupuncture Help Induce Labor?
Acupuncture doesn’t induce labor, but it can promote the onset of labor. After the 38th week, acupuncture uses certain points to promote the body’s readiness for labor, including the normal changes of late pregnancy such as softening and opening of the cervix.
How Effective Is Acupuncture To Induce Labor?
Western research is limited and mixed. A Cochrane review found that acupuncture may improve the readiness of the cervix for labor, with no clear differences in other induction-related outcomes, and said more well-designed trials are needed.
In our practice, acupuncture is clinically effective at promoting the onset of labor, and patients who still need a medical induction have reported shorter induction times, giving birth within 6–36 hours, though individual results vary and aren’t guaranteed. We offer it alongside your medical team.
When To Start Acupuncture To Induce Labor?
Labor preparation acupuncture starts at the end of the 37th week of pregnancy.
How Long Does It Take for Acupuncture To Induce Labor?
Our treatment plan is 3 sessions per week until the 42nd week of pregnancy, a scheduled induction, or the spontaneous onset of labor. The number of sessions depends on when you start and when labor begins.
How Many Acupuncture Sessions Will I Need To Induce Labor?
Our treatment plan is 3 sessions per week until the 42nd week of pregnancy, a scheduled induction, or the spontaneous onset of labor. The number of sessions depends on when you start and when labor begins.
What To Do After Acupuncture To Induce Labor
After receiving acupuncture, we provide you with recommended exercises and other lifestyle recommendations to help you promote the onset of labor.
Can I Get Acupuncture If I Am Past My Due Date?
Many people ask about support while waiting past their due date. Acupuncture can promote the onset of labor and help with stress during the wait, and it works alongside your OB or midwife’s treatment plan, not instead of it.
Our labor preparation plan is 3 sessions per week until the 42nd week of pregnancy, a scheduled induction, or the spontaneous onset of labor. Call us or book online and we’ll talk through timing for your situation.
Can Acupuncture Support Me if I Have a Scheduled Medical Induction?
Yes, as supportive care. Acupuncture doesn’t change whether your induction goes ahead, and your OB or midwife’s treatment plan comes first. Sessions can help with stress and comfort in the days before. If your induction is soon, call us. We can get patients scheduled within 24 hours.
What if My Baby Is Breech?
If your baby is breech, you and your doctor or midwife will talk through your options. We offer supportive care, including moxibustion, for patients in this situation. See our breech baby page for what Western research says.
What Herbs Help Induce Labor?
Toward the end of pregnancy, we only recommend a few herbs, such as red raspberry leaf tea and castor oil. Schedule an herbal consultation during your next appointment to learn more.
Should I Take Herbs To Induce Labor?
Taking herbs to induce labor is a personal preference. At our clinic, we only recommend a few herbs during the later stages of pregnancy.
Does Castor Oil Induce Labor?
Castor oil may promote labor by stimulating contractions in the uterus. Consult with your healthcare provider before taking castor oil.
Is Castor Oil Safe To Induce Labor?
Castor oil is a stimulant to the bowels which can result in uterine contractions, nausea, diarrhea, and/or vomiting.
How Much Castor Oil Should I Take To Induce Labor?
Castor oil can help stimulate contraction in the uterus but should not be taken for labor induction without first consulting a medical professional.
Does Eating Dates Induce Labor?
No, eating dates have not been shown to induce labor. However, eating dates during pregnancy provides you with a good source of fiber, iron, and vitamin K.
How Do I Verify an Acupuncturist’s DC License?
Dr. Adam Miramon and the entire clinical team at Transformational Acupuncture are licensed acupuncturists in Washington, DC. Some of our practitioners are also licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware.
You can verify our licenses using the DC Department of Health license lookup. You can also read about our clinical team’s training and credentials on the team page.
Where Is the Clinic, and Do You Take Insurance?
We’re located in Dupont Circle at 1645 Connecticut Ave NW, 3rd floor, Washington, DC. We’re in-network with Aetna, VA Community Choice, CareFirst/BlueCross, CareFirst Community Health, Cigna, and United Healthcare.
To find out if your insurance will cover acupuncture at our clinic, submit our benefits verification form.
What To Expect
You can expect to find a partner in your health journey.
At Transformational Acupuncture, we strive to provide a welcoming environment to each and every patient. We understand traditional healthcare can make some wary of seeking help, even if it’s for the betterment of their health. That’s why we take a holistic approach when treating each person. You will be listened to, treated with respect, and be seen as a true partner in your own health journey.
At the beginning of your treatment you’ll be asked some basic questions so we can establish a good baseline. From there we’ll discuss your specific needs and issues. After hearing from you, we’ll create a holistic plan that is designed to help you live the balanced, healthy life you deserve.
Your Patient Journey
At the beginning of your treatment, you’ll be asked some basic questions so we can establish a good baseline. From there we will discuss your specific needs and issues. After hearing from you, we will create a holistic plan that is designed to help you live the balanced, healthy life you deserve.
Learn more about your complete patient journey.
Get Started Today
Begin your holistic health journey by scheduling an appointment today. Schedule online or give us a call at (202) 297-7404.
To learn if your insurance covers acupuncture and other treatments, please fill out our short form to verify your benefits with us.
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