Women’s experiences of acupuncture during labour

This study explores the experiences of women treated with acupuncture during labour, to identify factors relevant to midwifery care. An exploratory qualitative approach was used. Seven healthy women who had been treated with acupuncture during normal labour in a maternity unit of a tertiary hospital in Switzerland participated in semi-structured interviews in the first postnatal month. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. Women treated with acupuncture during labour reported enhanced birthing experiences and satisfaction with regard to pain relief and positive progress in labour, suggesting that acupuncture could be considered an additional support for women during childbirth. This suggests that midwives should discuss acupuncture with women during the antenatal period and offer it as an option during labour. The findings provide a better understanding of this topic by midwives and other health professionals, and contribute to the further development of acupuncture practice during labour.