Top 7 Benefits of Acupuncture for Postpartum Recovery
Client and baby getting ready for Acupuncture treatment at Root To Rise PT & Pelvic Health in Scarborough, 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, 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 has been used for centuries to support the body in recovery, rebalancing, and restoring energy. It's an ideal complement to physical therapy, movement, and mindfulness.
Below, we explore how acupuncture can uniquely support new parents in the weeks and months after birth.
Top 7 Benefits of Acupuncture for Postpartum Recovery
1. Rebalances Hormones After Birth
After delivery, estrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply. This can contribute to mood swings, irregular cycles, night sweats, or even postpartum depression. Acupuncture supports the body by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, easing symptoms and encouraging a smoother hormonal transition.
2. Boosts Milk Supply and Eases Letdown
Struggling with low milk supply or irregular letdown? Acupuncture stimulates prolactin and oxytocin—two key hormones for milk production and ejection. By improving circulation and reducing stress, it helps create the ideal conditions for lactation, especially when paired with proper nutrition and rest.
3. Increases Energy and Supports Rest
New parents are often running on empty. While acupuncture can’t make your baby sleep through the night, it can help your nervous system cope with sleep deprivation. Many patients report feeling more rested and restored after treatment. Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest), giving your body a much-needed reset.
4. Relieves Muscle Tension and Postural Strain
Feeding, rocking, holding, and lifting your baby can strain your neck, shoulders, wrists, and back. Acupuncture reduces muscle tension, eases inflammation, and releases fascial restrictions caused by repetitive movement or poor posture. It's a perfect companion to postpartum physical therapy.
5. Promotes Tissue Healing and Scar Recovery
Whether you’ve had a cesarean birth or perineal tearing, acupuncture increases blood flow to affected tissues, enhancing healing and minimizing discomfort. It also reduces adhesions, numbness, and sensitivity around scars, especially when combined with cupping or gentle manual therapy.
6. Eases Postpartum Anxiety and Depression
Acupuncture has been shown to boost serotonin and other mood-regulating neurotransmitters. It can help calm anxiety, relieve overwhelm, and support emotional wellbeing. Many new parents describe their acupuncture sessions as a sacred pause—a place to breathe, restore, and receive care.
7. Improves Circulation and Pelvic Organ Function
Postpartum healing involves more than what’s visible. Acupuncture promotes circulation to the uterus, bladder, and bowels, supporting the return of regular cycles and digestion. It can also help reduce night sweats, bloating, or urinary urgency.
Acupuncture Isn’t Just for the Birthing Parent
Partners often take on a huge part of the postpartum load—emotionally and physically. Their wellbeing matters too.
How Acupuncture Supports Partners
Reduces stress and mental load from caregiving or lack of sleep
Relieves muscle tension from lifting and holding the baby
Supports immune function when feeling run down
Improves mood and sleep through nervous system regulation
We often encourage partners to schedule an acupuncture session around the same time as the birthing parent. It’s a powerful way to model shared care - not just baby care.
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
Experience Gentle, Restorative Care
Whether you're two weeks or two years postpartum, your healing journey deserves support. Our licensed acupuncturists work closely with the pelvic health and physical therapy team to design customized, whole-person care plans that meet you where you are.
Book a session or schedule a postpartum wellness consult today and discover the difference integrative care can make.
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!