Acupuncture in Marylebone, London

Acupuncture needles are far thinner than the hypodermic needles used for injections — most clients describe a brief, dull ache as the needle settles, called 'de qi', that fades within seconds. Some points are more sensitive than others, and some sessions are more activating than others. If at any point a needle is uncomfortable beyond that initial settling, tell us and we adjust or remove it.

Acupuncture is one of the safest procedures in regulated healthcare when delivered by a BAcC-registered acupuncturist. Single-use sterile needles eliminate infection-transmission risk. Mild bruising at a needle site is the most common adverse response. Anyone on blood thinners, with a bleeding disorder, with heart valve disease, or who is pregnant should disclose at intake so points and depth are chosen accordingly.

Acute musculoskeletal complaints often respond within 3 to 6 sessions. Cycle-related and hormonal work plans in 12-week blocks because egg maturation and hormonal feedback take that long to shift. Chronic conditions (long-standing pain, IBS, anxiety) typically need 6 to 12 sessions to know whether acupuncture is the right tool. We agree a clear plan at session 1 and reassess at 4 weeks.

Yes — pregnancy acupuncture is one of the most established BAcC subspecialties. There is a defined list of contraindicated points during pregnancy that every BAcC-trained acupuncturist follows. Common applications are nausea, sleep, lower-back and pelvic-girdle pain, and (with research support) the pre-birth treatments offered from week 36 onwards.

Some UK private medical insurers reimburse BAcC-registered acupuncturists for specific indications, but cover varies widely. Bring your policy details to the first session and we will help you confirm what is covered before booking subsequent sessions. We can issue a clinical receipt for any insurer that reimburses on submission.