Therapies in Pregnancy: General Cautions by Practice

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Pregnancy changes which therapies are suitable. Before you start or continue any complementary practice, talk with your prenatal care provider (obstetrician, midwife or family doctor). This page gives general cautions by type of practice, based on what government and health-service sources say. It is not personal advice. For supplements and herbs in detail, see the Natural Remedy Safety page on pregnancy and breastfeeding. In a US emergency, call 911.

Movement practices: yoga, tai chi and qigong

NCCIH says that, like other physical activities, yoga can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy if appropriate precautions are taken. [1] It advises talking with your provider to make sure there is no medical reason you should not exercise, and to learn whether to adjust your activities. [1] Pregnant women should also talk with their yoga instructor about their needs, and may need to avoid or modify some poses. [2] NCCIH advises pregnant women to talk with their providers before beginning tai chi, qigong or any other exercise program. [3] Hot yoga has special risks related to overheating and dehydration. [2] For a gentler adaptation, see adapted yoga and movement.

Acupuncture

We found no source that lets us state a general rule on acupuncture in pregnancy. Proper evidence not found in the pages we read from NCCIH and the NHS. NCCIH says that if you are pregnant or nursing you should be especially sure to consult your health care provider about TCM. [3] Ask your provider and the acupuncturist about the specific points and the reason for treatment. Read acupuncture side effects and precautions.

Herbal medicines and supplements

The NHS says you should not take herbal medicines if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. [4] NCCIH says some supplements may not be safe for use when you are pregnant, or their safety may be uncertain. [1] Examples it gives:

• Fenugreek is not safe in amounts greater than those in food; its use has been linked to increased risks of birth defects in animals and people. [1]
• Ginger may help mild nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but evidence that it is safe for use during pregnancy is not conclusive. [1]
• Folic acid: the CDC recommends 400 micrograms a day from supplements or fortified foods for all women of reproductive age, to help prevent birth defects of the brain and spine. [1]

Chinese and Ayurvedic herbal products have their own quality and interaction issues; see Chinese herbal product quality and interactions and Ayurvedic herbs: interactions, pregnancy and children.

Massage, hydrotherapy, breathwork and heat

For massage in pregnancy, ask for a therapist with prenatal training and talk to your provider first. We did not find a verified general rule for sauna, hot-tub or cold-water temperature limits in pregnancy that we could cite, and limits depend on the person, so ask your provider before using heat or immersion. See hydrotherapy safety and massage safety.

Questions to ask

• Is this safe for my stage of pregnancy and my health?
• Which parts of the session should be changed or skipped?
• Does this involve any herb, oil or supplement, and has my provider approved it?
• Who will tell my prenatal team about it?