Moxibustion for Breech Position
(Home Visits)
A traditional chinese medicine technique used to turn a baby from breech into a head-down position
Moxibustion is a traditional treatment that uses the gentle heat of dried mugwort (moxa sticks) to stimulate specific acupuncture points on the body. Rather than needles, warmth is applied close to the skin to encourage circulation, relaxation, and transfer of energy.
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Research has shown that Moxibustion can have up to 60-80% success rates - higher than a clinician turning your baby via ECV (external cephalic version).
​​Home visits in Witham, Chelmsford & surrounding areas
All moxibustion treatments are provided as home visits across Witham, Chelmsford, Maldon, Hatfield Peverel, Kelvedon, Tiptree, and nearby areas.​​​​
How moxibustion can help in pregnancy
Moxibustion is thought to work by gently warming and stimulating energy flow and blood circulation. It can help to:
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Encourage babies to move into a head‑down (cephalic) position
Support uterine balance and pelvic relaxation
Promote a sense of calm and wellbeing
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Many people also report feeling deeply relaxed and grounded during and after treatment.
What to expect during your session
We will begin with a brief discussion about your pregnancy, your baby’s position, and any relevant medical or obstetric history. I will then show you positions and maneouvres you can use to encourage your baby into a head-down position, and do some pelvic balancing techniques with you.
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I will then teach you how to perform the moxibustion and do the first treatment with you. You will be given a treatment plan to carry out at home which will involve daily moxibustion and I will provide all the necessary equipment and resources for the duration of your treatment. I strongly recommend having another person present to do this, as it is incredibly difficult to do the treatment on yourself.
The sensation is one of gentle, soothing warmth as the moxa sticks are held near to the skin. It should never feel hot or uncomfortable. A session typically lasts around 30–45 minutes.
Is this treatment right for you?
Moxibustion is non‑invasive and generally safe, but it's essential for me to review your medical and pregnancy history before treating to make sure that treatment is appropriate for you. If you'd like more information on whether moxibustion is right for you please get in touch and I will happily discuss with you.
Why choose Flourish for moxibusion?
As a midwife, I offer a truly holistic approach to supporting your baby to move from a breech to a head-down position. This means your appointment is about much more than the moxibustion itself. Alongside treatment, you’ll receive personalised guidance, practical information, and simple techniques you can continue to use at home all grounded in an understanding of pregnancy, physiology, and your individual circumstances.
Comfort & positioning
Moxibustion is usually performed with you in a seated position with your feet up. This could be on your sofa or chair with a leg rest or foot stool, or I can bring my zero-gravity chair for you to use during our session.
What stage of pregnancy should I book moxibustion?
The optimal time for moxibustion treatment for breech is around 34-36 weeks as this is when the treatment is generally most effective. It can be performed in the final weeks of pregnancy, but the closer to your due date you are, the lower the chances of success.
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Did You Know?
Moxibustion has been used in East Asian medicine for thousands of years and is recommended in some international midwifery and obstetric guidelines as a complementary approach for turning a breech baby.
If you’re unsure whether moxibustion is right for you, please get in touch before requesting an appointment. I’ll be happy to answer any questions and guide you through your options.
Moxibustion Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby doesn't turn?
There are no guarantees that moxibustion will be successful in turning your baby. If they remain in a breech position I will happily give you evidence-based information to help you decide on the next steps for your pregnancy. We can discuss all your options and I will support you to make informed decisions about your plan of care should you wish to do so.
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Will the treatment hurt?
No, moxibustion is not painful. You will feel a warming sensation in the area of your foot close to the stick, but the hot stick does not come into contact with your skin.
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How often can I do moxibustion?
You will be given a treatment plan at the appointment which will involve daily moxibustion for a set duration of time.
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Is moxibustion safe?
Moxibustion is considered safe for most pregnant women and their babies, unless there are underlying complications or health conditions. A full assessment will be undertaken of your medical and pregnancy history prior to treatment to ensure that it is safe to proceed.
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How much smoke is produced during the treatment?
The moxa sticks used are lit using a lighter, but are smokeless as they burn.
All treatments are offered as home visits across Witham, Chelmsford, Maldon, Hatfield Peverel, Kelvedon and Tiptree, as well as surrounding areas.
