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.

Labour Preparation & Induction Acupuncture Program

From 37 Weeks Until Baby Arrives

For mums who want steady, calm, evidence-informed support—without the “can you squeeze me in today?!” panic texts.

What’s included:

✔ Unlimited* labour preparation & induction acupuncture sessions *(up to a maximum of 10 treatments)

✔ An ideal treatment rhythm, typically:

  • Week 37 – 1 session

  • Week 38 – up to 3 sessions

  • Week 39 – up to 3 sessions

  • Week 40 – up to 3 sessions

✔ Cervical ripening and pelvic preparation

✔ Nervous system calming (because adrenaline is not your friend here)

✔ Priority booking throughout your final weeks

✔ A quiet, private, unhurried space—no conveyor-belt appointments

Clinical note: Treatment frequency is guided by how your body responds, within the program maximum of 10 sessions.

Program Fee: $455

One fee. Unlimited sessions. Support right up until baby decides it’s go-time.

No pressure. No rushing. Just consistent, nurturing preparation for labour.

This program is ideal for:

• anyone hoping to avoid medical induction

• first-time mums

• mums with high anxiety or tension

• overdue pregnancies

• IVF or older mums

• anyone wanting the most natural, supported lead-up to birth

Single Induction Acupuncture Session

$155

(Perfect if you’re dipping a toe in—but the full program is where the magic happens.)

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 37–39 weeks

  • Some respond after one session, others may need more.

  • 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

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.

Ready to Support Your Body Naturally?

Choose the option that feels right for you:

👉 Book the Labour Preparation Acupuncture Package

Book Package Here

Weekly sessions from Week 37 until baby arrives — $455 (unlimited treatments until birth)*

Perfect if you want steady, calm, continuous support leading up to birth.

👉 Book a Single Labour Preparation Acupuncture Session

Book Single Session Here

Ideal if you’re starting acupuncture later in pregnancy or want to try a one-off session first.

👉 Or book a free 15-minute consult call

Talk to Riccardo

Ask questions, understand your options, and find out whether acupuncture is the right fit for your birth plan.Let’s help your body feel soft, balanced, ready — and closer to the birth you want.

*Unlimited labour preparation & induction acupuncture sessions is up to a maximum of 10 treatments

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
induction acupuncture review The Body Lab