Acuneedling is the term used in New Zealand for acupuncture performed by a Midwife. It blends acupuncture knowledge with midwifery care and is tailored specifically to pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.

How is maternity acupuncture different from regular acupuncture?

Maternity acupuncture is adapted for pregnancy and postpartum needs, using pregnancy-safe point selection and techniques. It focuses on supporting common pregnancy symptoms, birth preparation and recovery, while taking into account the physiological changes of pregnancy.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most women feel very little discomfort. The needles used are extremely fine and many people experience a mild tingling, warmth or a “heavy” sensation at the point. Many find treatment relaxing and calming.

What does a maternity acupuncture session involve?

A session typically includes a short health consultation, assessment of your pregnancy symptoms or goals, and then gentle acupuncture treatment. Needles are inserted into specific points and you rest comfortably for a period of time while the treatment works.

How long does an acupuncture treatment last?

Most sessions last around 45–60 minutes, including assessment and treatment time. The needle retention time is usually around 20–30 minutes.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your symptoms and goals. Some women experience improvement after one session, while others benefit from a course of treatments over several weeks. Your plan can be adjusted depending on your response.

When in pregnancy can I start maternity acupuncture?

You can start at any stage of pregnancy depending on your needs. Some women book early for nausea or fatigue, while others begin later for birth preparation or pelvic discomfort.

Can acupuncture help with nausea and morning sickness?

Yes. Acupuncture is commonly used to help reduce nausea, vomiting and digestive discomfort in early pregnancy. It can be a supportive, drug-free option for many women.

Can acupuncture help with heartburn and digestive issues in pregnancy?

Acupuncture may help reduce heartburn, reflux, constipation and bloating by supporting digestion and relaxation in the body. Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and trimester.

Can acupuncture help with pelvic pain and back pain during pregnancy?

Yes. Many women use maternity acupuncture to support musculoskeletal discomfort such as pelvic girdle pain, sciatica and back pain. It can help reduce tension, improve mobility and support comfort.

Can acupuncture help with sleep problems and anxiety?

Yes. Many women find acupuncture calming and grounding, supporting sleep and emotional wellbeing. It may help regulate the nervous system and ease stress, worry and restlessness.

Can maternity acupuncture help with baby positioning?

Acupuncture and related therapies can be used to support optimal foetal positioning, including posterior or breech positioning. Treatment is usually combined with other positioning techniques and tailored to each pregnancy.

What is moxibustion and when is it used?

Moxibustion is a traditional therapy that uses the gentle heat of burning moxa (mugwort) near acupuncture points. It is often used in pregnancy, especially when supporting breech positioning or boosting energy and circulation.

Can acupuncture help turn a breech baby?

Moxibustion and acupuncture are sometimes used as supportive therapies to encourage a breech baby to turn, usually around 34–36 weeks. Results vary, but it can be a gentle option to try under guidance.

Can acupuncture be used to prepare for labour?

Yes. Many women have weekly acupuncture sessions from around 36 weeks to support labour preparation. It may help the body soften, relax and get ready for birth, and can support overall comfort in late pregnancy.

Can acupuncture induce labour?

Acupuncture may support the body when labour is ready to begin, but it does not force labour if your body and baby are not ready. It is sometimes used as a natural support option in late pregnancy, often alongside other induction discussions.

Is maternity acupuncture helpful during labour?

Yes. Acupuncture can be used to support labour by encouraging relaxation, reducing tension and supporting pain management. Some women also find it helps with progress and stamina, depending on the situation.

Can acupuncture support postnatal recovery?

Yes. Postnatal acupuncture can support recovery by helping restore energy, balance hormones, improve sleep, reduce stress and support emotional wellbeing. It can also help with physical healing and general vitality.

Can acupuncture help with breastfeeding issues?

Acupuncture may support breastfeeding by helping with milk supply, mastitis, blocked ducts and stress-related challenges. It is often used alongside lactation support and midwifery care.

Are there any side effects of acupuncture?

Side effects are usually minimal. Some women experience slight bruising, a temporary ache at the needle site, tiredness, or deep relaxation afterwards. Serious side effects are rare when performed by a trained practitioner.

Who should not have maternity acupuncture?

Most pregnant women can safely have acupuncture, but there are some situations where caution is needed. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, placenta complications, bleeding, or other medical concerns, your treatment plan should be discussed with your Lead Maternity Carer.

Is acupuncture safe in early pregnancy?

Yes, when performed by a qualified practitioner trained in pregnancy-safe acupuncture. Treatment in early pregnancy focuses on supporting symptoms like nausea, fatigue and emotional wellbeing, using appropriate points for the first trimester.

Is acupuncture safe near the due date?

Yes. In late pregnancy, acupuncture is commonly used for comfort and birth preparation. Point selection and treatment goals are tailored to your stage of pregnancy and your individual needs.

What qualifications does Anna-Lena Tews have in maternity acupuncture?

Anna-Lena Tews is a Midwife with over 20 years experience and is trained in obstetric acupuncture. She combines evidence-based Traditional Chinese Medicine principles with midwifery knowledge to provide safe, pregnancy-specific care.

Is maternity acupuncture evidence-based?

Yes. There is growing research supporting acupuncture for a range of pregnancy-related symptoms and birth preparation, although results can vary between individuals. Treatment is always tailored and used as supportive care alongside standard maternity services.

How can I book an appointment for maternity acupuncture?

You can book an appointment by contacting the clinic directly. If you are under Anna-Lena’s midwifery care, you can also discuss acupuncture options during your antenatal visits.

Maternity Acupuncture - Anna-Lena Midwifery

Maternity

Acupuncture

Since 2010 I’m fully trained in Obstetric Acuneedling (acupuncture performed by midwives, level 7 certificate through NZ School of Acupuncture and TCM Auckland) which accompanies alternative treatment options for you. As I would like to offer the best care possible to you and your baby, this service is free of charge for women under my midwifery care.
I offer appointments at The Maternity Acupuncture Clinic at River Ridge East Birth Centre (see contact details) as well as visits at your birthing location during labour (fee depends on location and individual situation).

Acuneedling is a safe and effective therapy option, originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Very thin needles are inserted into specific points to support and enhance the natural healing power of your body.
However, for some conditions heat therapy called moxibustion is recommended. Moxasticks are mugwort- cigars, safely held over specific places on the body to stimulate the acupuncture points.

Acuneedling

Let´s Talk About It

In this video, Anna-Lena, Midwife and trained in Obstetric Acupuncture, explains how Acuneedling can gently and safely support you during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. Drawing on both evidence- based Traditional Chinese Medicine and midwifery knowledge, she shares how this drug-free therapy can help with common

pregnancy concerns, birth preparation, optimal baby positioning, labour support, and postnatal recovery and much more.

Anna-Lena also talks through what acupuncture feels like and why many women find it deeply relaxing, grounding, and empowering throughout their pregnancy, birth and postnatal journey.

List of treatable conditions:

Pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting
Miscarriage
Anaemia
Heartburn
Constipation
Musculoskeletal conditions
Fatigue and exhaustion
Anxiety and depression
Insomnia
Urinary tract infection
Thrush and abnormal vaginal discharge
Back pain
Hip pain
Pregnancy induced hypertension (high blood pressure)
Itching
Oedema
Optimal foetal positioning .e.g. posterior or breech position (success rate up to 70% !!)
Small for gestational age babies
and many more…

Childbirth

Optimal preparation for birth (from 36 weeks gestation)
Induction of labour
Pain relief (incl. acupressure points for support person)
Optimal foetal positioning
Problems during childbirth

Postnatal Period

Increase of milk supply
Mastitis
Emotional imbalance, postnatal depression
Optimal recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is maternity acupuncture and how does it support pregnancy?

Maternity acupuncture is a gentle, evidence-based form of acupuncture designed specifically for pregnant people. When performed by a Midwife in New Zealand, this is called Acuneedling. It supports pregnancy by helping reduce common discomforts, improve wellbeing for mother and baby, and support the body’s natural balance throughout pregnancy.

Is acupuncture safe to use during pregnancy?

Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner who specialises in pregnancy care, acupuncture is considered safe. Treatment plans are tailored to each trimester and each person’s unique pregnancy needs. Anna-Lena Tews is a Midwife with over 20 years experience and incorporates her midwifery knowledge into your care for safest and best practice.

What pregnancy symptoms can maternity acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can help with:

Nausea and morning sickness
Anaemia
Heartburn
Back pain and pelvic pain
Insomnia or sleep difficulties
Stress, anxiety and emotional balance
Headaches and migraines
High blood pressure (pregnancy-induced)
Constipation
Trush/ abnormal vaginal discharge
UTI
Itching
Low energy and fatigue
Oedema
Preparation for birth
Mental health (antenatally and postnatally)
Induction of labour
Optimal foetal positioning (posterior or breech)
Postnatal recovery
Breastfeeding issues (mastitis, low milk supply)

Can maternity acupuncture help with back pain, nausea or insomnia?

Yes. Many pregnant people experience significant relief from these symptoms with acupuncture. Treatments aim to reduce pain, improve sleep quality, and support the nervous system.

Do you offer acupuncture for optimal fetal positioning (e.g. breech)?

Yes. We offer gentle, pregnancy-safe acupuncture techniques that can support optimal fetal positioning, including posterior positions or breech turning support in collaboration with your midwifery care.

Is maternity acupuncture included in my midwifery care package?

Acupuncture/ Acuneedling is a separate service from midwifery care and may incur additional costs. However, it can be coordinated alongside your midwifery appointments for convenience and continuity of care.

Where are maternity acupuncture appointments held?

Appointments are held at our clinic location (River Ridge East Birth Centre, 39 Puutikitiki St, Hamilton East, Hamilton), or in some cases, can be arranged to fit your individual needs (such as a home visit during labour or at your birthing location).

How long do acupuncture sessions take and what should I expect?

A typical session lasts 30-45 minutes. You can expect a calm, supportive environment, gentle needle placement, and time to rest and relax while the treatment works.

Do I need a referral to access maternity acupuncture services?

No referral is needed. However, if you are under midwifery care, we will coordinate treatment in a safe, integrated way.

Can acupuncture support labour preparation or induction?

Yes. Acupuncture can help support natural labour preparation by encouraging relaxation, reducing stress, and helping the body move into a more labour-ready state. Acupuncture can be very successful to induce labour- if your body and baby are ready.

What postnatal conditions can acupuncture help with?

Postnatal acupuncture can support:

Breastfeeding difficulties and milk supply
Postpartum mood and emotional balance
Physical recovery and pelvic pain
Sleep support and stress reduction

What is the cost of maternity acupuncture if I’m not under your midwifery care?

The cost is $90.00 per treatment.

How soon in pregnancy should I start acupuncture treatments?

Acupuncture can be started at any stage of pregnancy.

Who provides maternity acupuncture at Altews Midwifery?

All treatments are provided by Anna-Lena Tews, a New Zealand Registered Midwife with additional training in maternity acupuncture (Acuneedling). Your care is delivered by a practitioner who understands pregnancy, birth, and postnatal physiology. Learn more at www.altews-midwifery.com.

What is Acuneedling and how is it different from traditional acupuncture?

Acuneedling is acupuncture performed by a qualified midwife using an evidence-based, maternity-focused approach. It blends western clinical knowledge with acupuncture techniques, making it especially safe and appropriate for pregnancy, labour, and postpartum recovery.

Can acupuncture help with anxiety or emotional wellbeing during pregnancy?

Yes. Acupuncture can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and support emotional balance. Many clients feel more relaxed, sleep better, and experience improved overall wellbeing after sessions at the Maternity Acupuncture Clinic in Hamilton.

Does maternity acupuncture help with labour preparation?

Yes. Regular treatments from around 36 weeks may help prepare your body for labour by encouraging relaxation, improving sleep, supporting hormone balance, and promoting optimal baby positioning. This treatment prepares the uterus for quality contractions at birth, softens the cervix which helps dilation during labour and extra energy at the time of treatment, during birth and postnatally. As a Midwife, I highly recommend this treatment.

Can acupuncture naturally induce labour?

Acupuncture may help encourage labour to begin when your body and baby are ready. It supports natural processes rather than forcing labour and is offered safely within New Zealand midwifery guidelines.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need during pregnancy?

This depends on your and your baby’s needs. Some people book one or two treatments for specific symptoms, while others choose regular sessions throughout pregnancy or for birth preparation. Your plan is personalised at each visit.

Is maternity acupuncture painful?

No. The needles are extremely fine and most people feel little to no discomfort. Many describe a warm, tingly or heavy sensation and feel deeply relaxed – some even fall asleep during treatment.

Can I combine acupuncture with my regular midwifery appointments?

Yes. Acupuncture can often be scheduled alongside your midwifery visits at River Ridge East Birth Centre, making care convenient and well coordinated.

Does acupuncture help with swelling or fluid retention in pregnancy?

Yes. Acupuncture may support circulation and lymphatic flow, helping reduce swelling in the hands, feet, and legs and improving comfort in late pregnancy.

Can acupuncture support better sleep during pregnancy?

Yes. Treatments help regulate the nervous system and reduce physical tension, which can improve sleep quality and help you feel more rested.

Is maternity acupuncture suitable for high-risk pregnancies?

In many cases, yes. Treatments are carefully adapted to your specific health needs. As a midwife-led service, Anna-Lena Tews works within safe clinical guidelines and can collaborate with your wider maternity team if needed.

Can acupuncture help with postpartum recovery?

Yes. Postnatal acuneedling can support healing, energy levels, emotional wellbeing, breastfeeding challenges, sleep, and physical recovery after birth.

Do you offer home visits for acupuncture?

Home, hospital or birth centre visits may be available in certain situations. Contact Anna-Lena Tews to discuss your needs.

What should I wear or bring to an acupuncture appointment?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to your arms, legs and lower back. You may like to bring water and arrive ready to relax. Everything else is provided.

How do I book a maternity acupuncture appointment in Hamilton?

You can book directly through www.altews-midwifery.com. No referral is required. You’re welcome whether or not you receive your primary midwifery care with Anna-Lena Tews.

Can I bring a support person yo my appointment?

Yes, absolutely. Also your kids are welcome, I also have toys available.

Gift vouchers

Gift vouchers are available for purchase. Please contact me direclty for easy ordering.

Consultations

Treatments are by appointment only, vary from 30- 45 min, depending on your current condition.

The Maternity Acupuncture Clinic is currently always open on Thursdays.

Location

The Maternity Acupuncture Clinic is at the Midwives Hub at River Ridge East Birth Centre (right side building, 39 Puutikitiki Street, Hamilton East, Hamilton 3216).

Consultations

Treatments are by appointment only, vary from 30- 45 min, depending on your current condition.

The Maternity Acupuncture Clinic is currently always open on Thursdays.

Method

Acupuncture is a safe and effective therapy option, originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Very thin needles are inserted into specific points to support and enhance the natural healing power of your body.

Prices

NZ $90 for consultation, including taking a full medical history at our first appointment and thorough review of your and your baby’s current condition at each session.
Prices are payable cash or via online banking straight after appointment. Thank you.