This treatment can be effective to induce labour that is overdue. The treatment can be done from 41 weeks gestation (one week over due date). Needles are placed in the hands, feet and lower back and left in place for 30 - 40 minutes. It can be beneficial to have consecutive treatments for up to 2 to 4 days.

This treatment is particularly helpful for encouraging the hormonal cascades that instigate labour as well as encouraging the baby downward in the birth canal. Labour usually begins when the babies head touches the cervix and this treatment is using acupoints that greatly enhance that downward movement.

Many mothers find this treatment reassuring; it is very gentle and safe, and most mothers find it helps to ease the pressure they may feel about having a hospital induction. In our experience having the acupuncture induction treatment seems to help the body to cope better if a hospital induction becomes necessary.