Gentle Support for Pregnancy: Acupuncture for Morning Sickness

Pregnancy is a journey full of hope, anticipation — and sometimes a few unwelcome challenges. For many expectant mothers, the early months can bring persistent nausea, fatigue, queasiness or even bouts of vomiting. If you're seeking a gentle, natural way to ease these symptoms — without relying solely on medication — acupuncture could be a path worth considering. At Brixton Therapy Centre, we are pleased to offer compassionate, safe acupuncture care tailored to pregnant clients, helping support them through morning sickness with sensitivity and expertise.

Why Consider Acupuncture for Morning Sickness?

Morning sickness — or more broadly nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) — affects a large number of pregnant women, especially in the first trimester. For some, it’s a minor discomfort; for others, it can be intense and disruptive. Conventional approaches sometimes rely on drugs or dietary changes, which may help — but for those seeking a more natural, holistic option, acupuncture offers a compelling alternative.

Research suggests acupuncture can be effective in reducing nausea and dry retching associated with early pregnancy.

A recent meta-analysis (2024) found that acupuncture — sometimes combined with moxibustion — was associated with significantly lower nausea and vomiting compared with control or conventional therapy, and was generally safe when performed properly. 

Because acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body — often including the P6 point (on the inner forearm/wrist) — it may help regulate bodily rhythms, ease digestive discomfort, and support the body's natural equilibrium, offering relief without the potential side-effects of medication.

What to Expect from Pregnancy Acupuncture at Brixton Therapy Centre

– A caring, personalised approach

At Brixton Therapy Centre, we believe in treating each person as an individual. If you come to us experiencing morning sickness, we’ll begin by listening carefully: about your symptoms, pregnancy stage, general health, stress and lifestyle — because all these factors influence how your body responds.

Your practitioner will then select acupuncture points tailored to your needs, potentially including P6 (Neiguan), and others known in traditional practice to support digestion, calm nausea, and balance energy flow (qi). Treatments might also include gentle body or ear points if appropriate.

During a session, you’ll rest quietly while ultra-fine, sterile needles are placed — the experience is typically gentle and relaxing, not painful. Many people find the treatment calming and therapeutic — a needed moment of rest for body and mind, especially in those early busy, emotional pregnancy weeks.

– Gentle, but effective support

For many clients, relief from nausea and queasiness can begin within a few sessions. Some studies report reductions in nausea and “dry retching” (feeling of retching without vomiting) within two weeks of regular acupuncture. 

In more severe cases — when morning sickness escalates towards what’s sometimes called Hyperemesis Gravidarum (persistent severe nausea and vomiting) — acupuncture has been used as part of a broader supportive plan.

While acupuncture may not always eliminate all symptoms, many clients find that their nausea becomes more manageable, their energy levels improve, and their overall comfort increases — helping them to function more easily in daily life.

The Benefits of Choosing Brixton Therapy Centre

• Safe, pregnancy-aware care. Acupuncture is generally considered safe during pregnancy when administered by qualified practitioners who use sterile, single-use needles and avoid sensitive points or techniques.

• Holistic wellbeing. Because we offer other therapies — such as massage, physiotherapy or osteopathy — we can support more than just nausea: stress, sleep, muscle tension and overall comfort can all benefit during pregnancy.

• Tailored, gentle treatments. Pregnancy is a unique time for each person. Our approach respects that uniqueness, adapting sessions to where you are physically and emotionally.

• Convenient for London mothers-to-be. Based in Brixton, we’re accessible for expectant mothers across South London, and familiar with the practicalities of London life: flexible scheduling, compassionate care, and understanding of busy lifestyles.

Who Might Benefit — and When to Consider Medical Advice

Acupuncture may particularly appeal to pregnant individuals who:

• Prefer a natural, drug-free approach to easing nausea and discomfort.

• Experience mild to moderate morning sickness and want supportive, gentle care.

• Wish to complement conventional prenatal care with holistic approaches.

However, it’s important to note: while research supports the potential benefits of acupuncture for pregnancy nausea, evidence varies — and for more serious conditions like Hyperemesis Gravidarum, acupuncture should not replace medical care.

If you experience severe vomiting, dehydration, weight loss, or other worrying symptoms — always seek advice from your midwife or GP. Acupuncture can be part of a supportive plan, but it isn’t a guarantee or a substitute for medical monitoring when needed.

A Gentle Invitation: Find Relief at Brixton Therapy Centre

If you’re based in Brixton, Clapham, Herne Hill, or anywhere in South London — and facing the often exhausting early months of pregnancy — know that you don’t have to face nausea and discomfort alone. At Brixton Therapy Centre, we offer a calm, welcoming space where you can receive safe, sensitive acupuncture care.

We’ll work with you to create a personalised plan — designed around your pregnancy, your wellbeing, and your lifestyle — to help you navigate morning sickness with more ease and comfort.

Whether you’re curious about trying acupuncture for the first time, or seeking a gentle complement to conventional prenatal care, we’d be honoured to support you on this journey.