Acupuncture and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
Breastfeeding can be a joyful but sometimes challenging experience, and many women wonder whether acupuncture is safe and helpful during this time. The short answer is: yes — acupuncture is generally considered safe while breastfeeding when practiced by a fully qualified and AHPRA registered acupuncturist.
Is Acupuncture Safe During Breastfeeding?
Unlike many medications that require caution or avoidance while nursing, acupuncture is drug-free. No adverse effects have been reported for mothers or babies when receiving acupuncture for breastfeeding support. It's generally compatible with breastfeeding and low risk when performed by a trained practitioner.
How Acupuncture May Help During Breastfeeding
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has long included acupuncture as a supportive tool for lactation. In TCM theory, breastmilk production can be related to the smooth flow of Qi (energy) and blood, as well as balancing the Liver and Spleen systems — all of which can influence hormonal regulation and stress levels.
From a scientific perspective, acupuncture and related acupoint stimulation may help support lactation through several possible mechanisms:
Hormonal Influence: Some randomised trials and meta-analyses suggest that acupuncture can increase levels of prolactin, the hormone closely linked to milk production, and increase measured milk volume when compared with control groups.
Reducing pain, inflammation and improving circulation: Some clinical studies show acupuncture can help relieve symptoms associated with to milk stasis or engorgement.
- Stimulating Parasympathetic Nervous System which helps calm the brain and nervous system. This can be a helpful aspect when breastfeeding is challenging and stressful for new mothers.
- Release neurotransmitters including endorphins, dopamine to help with stress response and mood.
What the Evidence Says
The Acupuncture Evidence Project and resources like Evidence Based Acupuncture provide comprehensive reviews of acupuncture’s effects across many conditions. This helps clinicians interpret the scientific literature when making clinical decisions. Unfortunately, women's health is not broadly studied, including pregnancy and postpartum. But, we can look at the evidence backed mechanisms of acupuncture to see how it may support breastfeeding mothers.
Using Acupuncture as Part of Breastfeeding Support
Acupuncture may be most effective as a complementary support. Especially for women experiencing low milk supply, engorgement, or a lot of stress relating to breastfeeding difficulties. Combining acupuncture with good latch techniques, lactation consultant guidance, and appropriate self-care can offer the new mother a holistic approach to any problems.
Some more tips:
- Choose a Qualified Practitioner: It is essential to seek treatment from an experienced practitioner who understands the specific considerations for breastfeeding mothers.
- Tell Your Acupuncturist you're breastfeeding: The practitioner can tailor the treatment and consider any contraindications or potential concerns related to breastfeeding.
- Prioritise Hydration around Acupuncture sessions: It's important to stay well-hydrated while breastfeeding, especially if receiving acupuncture treatment. Drinking plenty of water before and after acupuncture sessions can help support milk production and maintain hydration levels.
- Monitor Baby's Response: Pay attention to any changes in feeding patterns or overall well-being after acupuncture treatment. In some occasions herbal medicine could be considered. Monitoring the baby's bowel movements is important to know if dosage is appropriate or not (for you and the baby). We aim to keep the baby's gut happy by using gentle herbs, if at all.
Postpartum mothers have been through a lot. The breastfeeding journey can be a challenging one if it's your first time or having issues with latching or discomfort. Consider acupuncture as a adjunct to medical and lactation advice. To soothe and ease the mother's experience so baby can benefit the most from feeding.
I'm an AHPRA registered TCM Practitioner and have been in private practice for over 20 years. I'm passionate about helping women on their fertility, pregnancy and postpartum journey. Make an appointment here if you'd like to find out if Acupuncture is suitable for you. Based on the Northern Beaches of Sydney in Brookvale and Warriewood clinics.
