How Acupuncture Supports a Healthy Pregnancy

By Dr. Sarah Karsmarski, Acupuncture Physician

Pregnancy is such a powerful, beautiful journey — but let’s be honest, it can also be really hard.
Your body is working around the clock to grow a new human, and that often comes with things like nausea, fatigue, back pain, or emotional ups and downs.

While treatment options can be limited during pregnancy, Acupuncture offers gentle, natural support to help you feel more balanced, comfortable, and connected along the way.

What Is Pregnancy Acupuncture?

Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile needles placed at specific points on the body to help restore
balance and support your overall health. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, pregnancy is seen as a
time of deep transformation. Acupuncture helps your body keep up with all those changes —
physically, mentally, and emotionally.

How Acupuncture Can Help During Pregnancy

Here are just a few ways I support pregnant patients:

1. Morning sickness relief

Acupuncture can calm your digestive system and help reduce nausea and vomiting — especially
helpful in the first trimester.

2. Eases aches and pains

Growing a baby can cause back pain, hip tension, and pelvic discomfort. Acupuncture helps
relieve pain naturally by improving circulation and relaxing tight areas.

3. Better sleep + less stress

Pregnancy can be overwhelming. This is why we use Acupuncture to your nervous system and help your
body shift into a calmer, more restful state — so you can sleep and breathe a little easier.

4. Digestive support

Constipation, bloating, and sluggish digestion are common in pregnancy. Acupuncture helps get
things moving and keeps your system regulated.

5. Prepares your body for birth

As you approach your due date, acupuncture can support cervical ripening, encourage optimal
baby positioning, and help your body prepare for labor. Also, it’s a great way to reduce the need
for medical interventions.

When Should You Start?

Acupuncture is safe to receive at any stage of pregnancy — even in the first trimester. Some
people come early on for nausea and energy support, others come weekly in the third trimester to
get ready for labor. There’s no wrong time to start — even one treatment can help.

Every pregnancy is unique, and your care should be too. Therefore, I always tailor treatments to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re feeling off, in pain, or just need some time to reset – we can create a custom treatment plan for you.
If you’re curious about how acupuncture might support your pregnancy — reach out! I’d love to
be part of your care team during this incredible chapter.

Dr. Sarah Karsmarski AP, D.Ac.
Acupuncture Physician
AcupunctureSTA.com