There’s mixed evidence on the efficacy of acupuncture for major depressive disorder, and very little research on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PPD. Safety is a somewhat greater concern for acupuncture than for other non-pharmacological therapies, because some acupuncture points reportedly hasten labor. In three studies of acupuncture for PPD, two studies found greater efficacy than control (sham) acupuncture, but the third did not.[1]
Is acupuncture effective for PPD?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
The efficacy of acupuncture for peripartum depression is inconclusive; there was mixed evidence from 3 studies: 2 showed greater effectiveness than sham acupuncture and 1 did not. Additionally, safety concerns exist due to the potential for certain acupuncture points to hasten labor.