Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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The complementary therapies clinic is sometimes called the post-dates clinic. It is for people who have reached or gone past their baby’s due date and want to try to start labour naturally before an induction of labour is offered.
This clinic is run by midwives who are specially trained in these techniques. They use gentle treatments that may help your body start labour on its own.
The therapies offered include:
- aromatherapy – using safe, essential oils
- acupressure – pressing certain points on the body
- reflexology – gentle massage on the feet
- massage – relaxing the body
These treatments can be mixed and matched to suit what you need.
You can go to this clinic if:
- you have reached your baby’s due date.
- you are having one baby (not twins or more).
- you have no medical problems or pregnancy complications.
The clinic is held in the birth centres or in community midwifery hubs. Your midwife or doctor will talk to you about the clinic if it’s suitable for you. If you want to go, they will book an appointment for you.
- You will have a routine pregnancy check-up.
- Your midwife will talk about what you need and which treatments might help.
- You can also choose to have a stretch and sweep of your cervix (optional).
- Acupressure: Your midwife presses three points on your hands, ankles, and shoulders. This may help your body make hormones that start labour.
- Aromatherapy: Your midwife mixes pregnancy-safe essential oils and uses them for a gentle massage on your hands or feet. Some oils may help your womb start contracting. If you prefer, you can choose oils for relaxation or energy. If you have had a reaction to oils before, we can use plain oil for massage.
Wear comfortable clothes to your appointment. The clinic is designed to be calm and relaxing. If possible, bring a towel.
This clinic gives you more choice if your baby is due and you want to try starting labour naturally.
These treatments may:
- help you go into labour without medical induction.
- reduce pain and stress.
- help you feel calm and relaxed.
The appointment also gives you time to ask questions about labour and aftercare with your midwife.
The treatments are safe for you and your baby, but not all treatments are right for everyone. Your midwife will talk to you and choose what is best for you.
Sometimes, even after the clinic, you might not go into labour naturally. If that happens, your midwife will discuss other options, like medical induction.
- Drink plenty of water after your treatment.
- You might feel very calm and relaxed – this is normal, so enjoy it!
- Your dreams might feel more real or stronger than usual. This is common.
- You may also feel more energy after the treatment. This can help you cope better with signs of labour.
If you have any strong or unusual reactions, tell your midwife.
If you are worried after your treatment, call our MAMAS line 0300 013 2004
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Maternity service.
About this information
Service:
Maternity
Reference:
M/034
Approval date:
1 March 2026
Review date:
1 March 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.