If you're considering acupuncture, take the same steps you would to choose a doctor: No special preparation is required before acupuncture treatment. Some acupuncture points are thought to stimulate labor, which could result in a premature delivery. Acupuncture that involves applying mild electrical pulses to the needles may potentially interfere with a pacemaker's operation. Your chances of bleeding or bruising from the needles may be increased if you have a bleeding disorder or if you're taking blood thinners. Not everyone is a good candidate for acupuncture.īefore having acupuncture treatment, be sure to tell the practitioner if you:
Single-use, disposable needles are now the practice standard, so the risk of infection is minimal. Common side effects include soreness and minor bleeding or bruising where the needles were inserted. The risks of acupuncture are low if you have a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner using sterile needles.
