Labour Induction Acupuncture in Canberra

What to Expect (And Why It’s Different Here at The Body Lab)

Wondering what acupuncture for labour induction actually looks like?

It’s not just needles and “hope for the best.” At The Body Lab, we combine traditional wisdom with cutting-edge practice — including Japanese ion-pumping techniques developed by Dr. Yoshio Manaka — to help guide your body gently toward labour.

If you’re 38+ weeks pregnant and looking for calm, natural support for labour onset, you’re in exactly the right place.

As a father of three, I understand firsthand how important a smooth and supported birth experience is — not just for the birthing parent, but for the whole family. That’s why we take our time, listen to your needs, and tailor every session to your body and birth goals.

What Happens in an Induction Session?

Every session includes:

  • A full pre-treatment consult — checking your baby’s position, your energy levels, and how your body’s tracking.

  • Individualised acupuncture treatment using pregnancy-safe points to support oxytocin release, cervical softening, and parasympathetic activation.

  • Manaka-style ion cord therapy — this is our not-so-secret sauce. Think of it like giving your meridians a gentle electric nudge to stimulate energy flow and tissue responsiveness.

You’ll leave feeling relaxed, grounded, and a little more in tune with your body’s birthing timeline.

Our Point of Difference: The Manaka Method

Most acupuncture clinics use standard points and call it a day. But here? We go deeper — literally and energetically.

We use:

  • Ion pumping cords based on Dr. Manaka’s research in post-war Japan

  • These cords balance electrical charge across acupuncture channels (yes, your body’s basically a battery)

  • Shown to help regulate stuck energy, support uterine function, and enhance nervous system tone

  • It’s subtle, non-invasive, and highly effective — especially for women preparing for birth

👉 This is not commonly offered in Canberra — and it’s one of the most powerful additions to pre-birth acupuncture available today.

📚 References: Manaka Y. (1981). Chasing the Dragon’s Tail; Birch & Ida, Japanese Acupuncture (1998).

How Many Sessions Do I Need?

  • Most women start around 38–39 weeks

  • Some respond after one session, others may need 2–3 treatments

  • Acupuncture can support cervical ripening, pelvic opening, and baby positioning

  • Studies show acupuncture may reduce the need for medical induction and shorten labour time

    (Smith et al., 2008; Debra Betts, 2011)

Is It Safe?

Yes — and supported by clinical research. We use gentle, non-aggressive techniques tailored to your body and pregnancy stage. This is supportive, not forceful.

We’re also happy to collaborate with your midwife, doula, or OB. Your care team is part of the process, and we’re here to complement the work they’re doing.

What Should I Wear or Bring?

  • Comfy clothes (you’ll be reclining for 30–40 minutes)

  • Any notes from your care team

  • An open mind — we do things a little differently, and your body will thank you for it

Why Clients Choose The Body Lab

Unlike the quick in-and-out acupuncture chains or physio add-ons, we take time to:

  • Assess your full body posture, movement, and energy flow

  • Use research-backed, nervous system-regulating techniques like cord therapy

  • Treat the whole you — not just poke a few “labour” points and send you off to Centrelink

This is traditional medicine meets modern biomechanics, and it’s built to support your body’s own natural timeline.

Based in Canberra | Serving Women Across the Capital

From first-time mums to VBAC hopefuls, our clients come from all across the ACT to prepare their body (and mind) for labour in a supported, safe, and gentle way.

Book Your Labour Prep Session Today

Let’s help your body shift into gear naturally — with support, science, and a side of calm.

👉 Book Now

References
  1. Smith CA, Crowther CA, Grant SJ. Acupuncture for induction of labour. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008;(4):CD002962. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD002962.pub2
  2. Betts D. The Essential Guide to Acupuncture in Pregnancy & Childbirth. 2nd ed. Auckland: Self-published; 2011.
  3. Manaka Y, Itaya T, Birch S. Chasing the Dragon’s Tail: The Theory and Practice of Acupuncture in the Modern World. Paradigm Publications; 1985.
  4. Birch S, Ida J. Japanese Acupuncture: A Clinical Guide. Toyko: Toyo Press; 1998.
  5. Ee C, Manheimer E, Pirotta M, et al. Acupuncture for pelvic and back pain in pregnancy: A systematic review. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2008;198(3):254-259. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2007.10.679
  6. Deadman P, Al-Khafaji M, Baker K. A Manual of Acupuncture. East Sussex: Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications; 2001.
  7. Ma SX. Neurobiology of acupuncture: Toward CAM. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2004;1(1):41–47. doi:10.1093/ecam/neh004