Acupuncture does not reduce C section rate but may improve cervical maturity, review finds

Acupuncture and acupressure do not seem to reduce the need for a caesarean section, a Cochrane review has concluded, although acupuncture may help the cervix get ready for labour.1

Medical induction methods such as prostaglandins can have significant side effects, so many women choose complementary methods to bring on labour. Many midwives practise these along with usual care, and the limited observational studies to date show that acupuncture may be effective. Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles …