BACKGROUND: The efficacy of acupuncture on low-back and/or pelvic pain in late pregnancy is reviewed in few reports. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of two different acupuncture stimulation modes on pelvic pain intensity and some emotional symptoms due to the pain condition. METHODS: In a prospective randomized controlled single-blind study, pregnant women with pelvic pain, median gestational age 26 weeks (range 18 to 35), were given 10 acupuncture treatments. Needles were inserted subcutaneously over acupuncture points without further stimulation (superficial, n = 22), or intramuscular and stimulated repeatedly until a perceived sensation of numbness, de qi (deep, n = 25). Self-reported pain intensity at rest and during daily activities was assessed on a visual analog scale. The variables pain, emotional reactions, and loss of energy were assessed according to the Nottingham Health Profile questionnaire. Changes in assessed variables were analyzed with a nonparametric statistical method allowing for analysis of systematic group changes separated from additional individual changes. RESULTS: After acupuncture stimulation, significant systematic group changes towards lower levels of pain intensity at rest and in daily activities as well as in rated emotional reaction and loss of energy were seen. The results also showed additional individual changes in most variables. In this study, no differences between the effects induced by the superficial and deep acupuncture stimulation modes were observed. CONCLUSION: Acupuncture stimulation that is individually designed may be a valuable treatment to ameliorate suffering in the condition of pelvic pain in late pregnancy.

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