10/02/2026
In this picture, I’ve just inserted the needles for the Labour Induction protocol developed by Terry Oleson.
I love combining auricular acupuncture (ear acupuncture) with reflexology, but this protocol is also powerful as a standalone treatment when used appropriately in late pregnancy.
According to Oleson’s method, specific ear points are used to support the body’s natural readiness for labour — not to force it, but to encourage physiological balance, relaxation, and hormonal regulation. Here are some of the key auricular points involved:
✨ Uterus — for obvious reasons: we need to support uterine oxytocin receptors, contractions, and readiness
✨ Abdomen — helps regulate pelvic and digestive tension, and reduce pain in the whole area
✨ Point Zero — promotes overall balance and homeostasis in the body
✨ Shen Men (the Spirit Gate) — calms the mind, reduces anxiety, and supports emotional regulation
✨ Sympathetic — helps relax the nervous system and reduce stress-related tension. It is also considered an expulsion point, so it should never be used before week 37 of gestation
✨ Thalamus — supports pain modulation and sensory processing, helping regulate how intensely pain is perceived
✨ Lumbar Spine — addressing lower back tension is paramount, as it can increase perceived pain and restrict the pelvic mobility that is so needed. It can also interfere with efficient uterine contractions
✨ Spleen — in Chinese medicine, it is closely linked to pregnancy and labour, transforming food into Qi and Blood, the fuel needed to sustain contractions, prevent fatigue, and support uterine strength. If Spleen Qi is weak, contractions may be inefficient.
What is important to understand is that 2/3 sessions might not be enough and I always recommend to have at least 6 for the desired results.
If you’re curious about natural birth preparation or integrative maternity care, feel free to ask 💫