Pregnancy & Postnatal Acupuncture in Balmain
Before I became an acupuncturist, I spent more than a decade as a birth doula and childbirth educator. I sat with women through long labours and quiet newborn days. I also advocated for informed, supported birth through a not-for-profit. Supporting you through pregnancy and those first months after birth isn't just part of my practice. It's where my heart has always been.
Through each trimester
Acupuncture is generally considered safe in pregnancy when it's given by a registered practitioner trained in pregnancy care. I adjust every treatment to your trimester and avoid points that aren't suitable in pregnancy.
People often come to me for:
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nausea and fatigue in early pregnancy
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back, hip and pelvic pain
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headaches
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heartburn and digestive discomfort
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trouble sleeping
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the emotional ups and downs of pregnancy
Breech babies and moxibustion
From around 34 weeks, if your baby is in a breech position, moxibustion is a traditional option some women choose to try. Moxa is a gentle, warming herb held near a point on the little toe. I'll show you how to continue it at home. Please talk it through with your midwife or obstetrician first.
Pre-birth sessions
In the last weeks of pregnancy, I offer pre-birth sessions from around 36 weeks. They're a chance to rest, ease aches, and help you feel calm and prepared. Because of my doula background, there's always room to talk through your birth preferences and questions too.
Miscarriage & pregnancy loss
Losing a pregnancy, at any stage, is a deep and often lonely grief. Sometimes it’s carried quietly while life carries on around you. I see many women in the weeks and months after a loss. In Chinese medicine, this is a time to gently nourish and rebuild, both physically and emotionally.
Treatment can support your body’s recovery, help your cycle settle back into its rhythm, and ease the sleeplessness, exhaustion and heaviness that so often come with grief. When you feel ready, and only then, we can talk about preparing for another pregnancy. I can support you through the anxious early weeks that often follow a loss, too.
If you’ve experienced more than one miscarriage, I’ll work alongside your GP, obstetrician or fertility specialist so your care feels joined up.
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There’s no right time to come in. Whenever you’re ready, I’m here.
After your baby arrives
Chinese medicine pays special attention to the weeks after birth, whether you birthed vaginally or by caesarean. Postnatal care can support:
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physical recovery and energy
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sleep, as much as a newborn allows
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mood and emotional wellbeing
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feeding challenges, alongside your midwife or lactation consultant
Babies are welcome in the treatment room. Feed, settle or pause whenever you need.
What to expect
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Your first visit will be 60-75 minutes. We talk through your pregnancy, any test results, Western medical diagnosis, what has gone on so far and how you're feeling. Then your first acupuncture treatment.
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Follow-up visits will be 45-60 minutes. We will talk through any relevant updates. Acupuncture, plus herbs or dietary advice if they suit you.
Private health rebates can be claimed on the spot. Please bring any recent blood tests, scans or semen analysis results.
Common questions
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When can I start acupuncture in pregnancy? At any stage, including the first trimester.
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Is it safe for my baby? When given by a registered practitioner trained in pregnancy care, acupuncture is generally considered safe. I'm happy to talk through any concerns at your first visit.
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How soon after birth can I come in? Whenever you feel ready. Many women come in the first few weeks.