A review study was recently published that evaluated 13 trials which included 1,986 women and found that acupuncture during labor was associated with:
- Less intense pain reported
- More satisfaction with pain relief compared to no treatment
- A reduced use of pharmacological analgesia
- Fewer instrumental deliveries
Number 3 above directly leads to number 4 as it has been shown the epidurals can lengthen the duration of labor thereby increasing the likelihood that other interventions such forceps as C-section are needed. Also once the epidural is given often then Pitocin is given to speed up contractions. Therefore if acupuncture can reduce the amount of pain during labor then fewer interventions would be required. Not to mention the other health implication with the often unnecessary medical procedures used in birthing.
It really a huge improvement if hospitals could include acupuncture for labor pain management. However for an acupuncturist to absorb the extra malpractice fees it is not cost effective. My malpractice insurance would be 17x times (yes 17 times!) the current cost if I include obstetrics. If an acupuncturist could practice under an OBs umbrella to protect against an unlikely lawsuit that would be a step in the right direction. In addition it sure would reduce the cost to insurance companies and thereby help reign in some of the out of control healthcare costs.
Acupuncture is great for pain management and often the influence on pain control is subjective. However the data showing acupuncture reduced the need for an epidural and other interventions is clear proof that it can save insurance companies money.
Yours In Health,
George Mandler
Licensed Acupuncturist
Licensed Dieitian/Nutritionist