Top 7 Benefits of Acupuncture for Postpartum Recovery in Scarborough, Saco & Bath, Maine
Bringing new life into the world is one of the most transformative experiences a person can have. But what follows (the postpartum period) is often full of physical, emotional, and hormonal shifts that can leave new parents feeling depleted, overwhelmed, or out of sync with their bodies.
At Root To Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health, with locations in Scarborough, Saco, and Bath, Maine, we understand that healing doesn’t stop after birth. That’s why we integrate holistic modalities like acupuncture into postpartum care. This gentle yet powerful practice supports the body’s natural ability to restore balance and energy—making it an ideal complement to pelvic floor physical therapy, movement, and mindfulness.
Below, we explore the top benefits of acupuncture for postpartum recovery and how it can help new parents regain energy, confidence, and balance.
1. Rebalances Hormones After Birth
After delivery, estrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply. This can contribute to mood swings, irregular cycles, and postpartum depression. Acupuncture helps regulate hormones naturally, easing symptoms and supporting emotional stability during the transition to parenthood.
2. Boosts Milk Supply and Eases Letdown
Struggling with low milk supply or irregular letdown? Acupuncture supports prolactin and oxytocin—two essential hormones for milk flow. By improving circulation and reducing stress, acupuncture helps create the conditions for healthy lactation.
3. Increases Energy and Supports Rest
New parents are often running on empty. Acupuncture helps the nervous system rest and recharge. Many of our patients in Scarborough, Saco, and Bath report feeling more grounded and energized after a few sessions.
4. Relieves Muscle Tension and Postural Strain
Feeding, rocking, and carrying your baby can take a toll on your body. Acupuncture relieves tension, reduces inflammation, and complements postpartum physical therapy to restore healthy movement patterns and alignment.
5. Promotes Tissue Healing and Scar Recovery
Whether you’ve had a cesarean birth or perineal tearing, acupuncture increases blood flow and tissue repair, supporting scar healing and reducing discomfort. Combined with gentle manual therapy, it helps minimize adhesions and sensitivity.
6. Eases Postpartum Anxiety and Depression
Acupuncture can boost serotonin and other mood-regulating neurotransmitters. Sessions offer a restorative space for new parents to breathe, relax, and reconnect—a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and emotional overwhelm.
7. Improves Circulation and Pelvic Organ Function
Beyond visible healing, acupuncture promotes healthy circulation to the uterus, bladder, and bowels, supporting hormone balance, digestion, and pelvic organ recovery.
Acupuncture Isn’t Just for the Birthing Parent
Partners often carry a large part of the postpartum load—emotionally and physically. Their wellbeing matters too.
How Acupuncture Supports Partners:
Reduces stress and mental load
Relieves muscle tension from caregiving
Boosts immune function
Supports mood and sleep
We often encourage partners to schedule acupuncture around the same time as the birthing parent—it’s a shared act of self-care and connection.
Real Stories from Our Community
“After just two sessions, I noticed my mood lifting and my milk supply improving. Acupuncture became my favorite form of self-care.”
— Root To Rise Client, Maine
Experience Gentle, Restorative Care Across Southern Maine
Whether you’re two weeks or two years postpartum, your healing journey deserves care and support. Our licensed acupuncturists collaborate with our pelvic health and physical therapy team to create personalized, whole-body care plans.
Book your acupuncture session or postpartum wellness consult at our Scarborough, Saco, or Bath, Maine location today and experience how integrative care can help you rise again.
At Root to Rise Physical Therapy & Pelvic Health, we believe in a holistic approach to care. Our Acupuncturists are specialized in treating hormone conditions and fertility support. We are located in Scarborough, Saco, and Bath, and are here to support you!