Acupuncture or acupressure for induction of labour

Smith CA, Armour M, Dahlen HG · Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews · 2017 October 17

Objective

To determine, from the best available evidence, the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture and acupressure for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour.

Conclusions

Overall, there was no clear benefit from acupuncture or acupressure in reducing caesarean section rate. The quality of the evidence varied between low to high. Few trials reported on neonatal morbidity or maternal mortality outcomes. Acupuncture showed some benefit in improving cervical maturity, however, more well‐designed trials are needed. Future trials could include clinically relevant safety outcomes.

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Insights

Acupuncture and acupressure show potential for improving cervical readiness and certain birthing outcomes, their impact on reducing caesarean section rates remains inconclusive.

The study evaluates the efficacy and safety of acupuncture and acupressure for third-trimester cervical ripening or labor induction. Of the 22 trials analyzed, acupuncture's effect on caesarean sections remains inconclusive, while electro-acupuncture appears to influence birthing outcomes like cesarean section rates, instrumental vaginal birth, and spontaneous vaginal birth. The quality of evidence varies, and more comprehensive trials are required to establish their effectiveness and potential safety.