Patients often have a bothersome side effect called post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after surgery. About 30% of patients who have been anesthetized experience this problem. [1] PONV can significantly delay recovery, extend hospital stays, and reduce overall patient satisfaction. Antiemetics and other common anti-nausea drugs are often used to treat these symptoms, but some patients look for natural alternatives because they are worried about side effects or possible drug interactions.

Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has gained attention as a complementary therapy for managing PONV. Acupuncture works by stimulating certain points on the body to bring balance back to the body and control symptoms like nausea and vomiting. As more patients and doctors look for natural solutions, acupuncture has become an interesting choice for lowering PONV and speeding up recovery after surgery.

What is Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV)?

Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) refers to the nausea and vomiting that can occur after surgery, particularly in the first 24 hours following the procedure.[2] PONV affects approximately 20-30% of all surgical patients, with certain populations experiencing rates as high as 80% depending on the type of surgery and anesthesia used. [3]

PONV can happen for a number of reasons, such as using general anesthesia, which can make the digestive system uncomfortable, or opioid drugs, which are often prescribed to treat pain after surgery. Other triggers include individual patient factors such as age, gender (with women being more susceptible), history of motion sickness or previous PONV, and the duration of the surgery. [4]

Taking care of PONV is very important because it can cause problems like dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and slower recovery, which can make hospital stays longer and make patients less satisfied overall. Statistics show that up to 30% of patients will experience PONV, underscoring the need for effective prevention and relief strategies. [1]

How Does Acupuncture Help Relieve PONV?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that works by stimulating specific points on the body to restore the balance of energy, or Qi, which flows through pathways called meridians. The theory behind acupuncture is that by unblocking or balancing the flow of Qi, the body can better regulate symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Acupuncture’s effect on the nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve, is thought to play a key role in reducing nausea by influencing the gut-brain axis.

One of the most well-researched acupuncture points for nausea relief is Pericardium 6 (P6), also known as Neiguan. This point is located on the inner forearm, approximately three finger-widths below the wrist, and is commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting, especially after surgery or chemotherapy. [5

Clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV). A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture, especially when applied to the P6 point, significantly reduced the incidence of PONV in patients undergoing various types of surgery. In many cases, acupuncture has been found to be as effective as conventional antiemetic medications but without the side effects commonly associated with drugs. [6] 

Clinical Evidence Supporting Acupuncture for PONV

Several clinical studies and trials have compared the effectiveness of acupuncture with conventional anti-nausea medications in managing post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV). [7]  

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, one of the most important studies, found that acupuncture at the Pericardium 6 (P6) point was just as good at lowering the risk of PONV as common antiemetic drugs like ondansetron. Patients treated with acupuncture experienced fewer side effects compared to those who received medication. [8]

In another study, researchers compared the effects of acupuncture, sham acupuncture, and pharmacological treatments in preventing PONV. The results demonstrated that acupuncture significantly reduced the severity and duration of nausea and vomiting post-surgery compared to both placebo and standard medications. The acupuncture group reported a lower incidence of nausea in the first 24 hours following surgery, indicating its effectiveness in immediate post-operative care.[9] 

One important thing that many studies have shown is that acupuncture can help reduce nausea over time without the side effects that are common with drug treatments. [6,10

These studies show that acupuncture may be a good way to treat PONV that does not involve drugs. This is especially true for people who are sensitive to the side effects of medications or who prefer natural remedies.

Combining Acupuncture with Other Common Treatments

Along with traditional antiemetic drugs and other treatments, acupuncture can be a very helpful way to help people who are feeling sick after surgery stop vomiting and nausea. Acupuncture may make medications work better by addressing imbalances in the body’s energy system. This could mean that antiemetics can be taken in lower doses while still having the same effects. 

Studies have shown that combining acupuncture with pharmacological treatments can lead to a synergistic effect, improving overall patient outcomes. [11]

One of the best things about acupuncture is that it is safe, especially for people who are allergic to or sensitive to certain drugs. An acupuncture session by a qualified practitioner usually does not cause many side effects, unlike drug treatments that can be harmful to sensitive people. This makes it a great choice for people who can not take regular anti-nausea drugs because of allergies or other health problems.

Acupuncture’s holistic approach differs significantly from Western medicine’s focus on symptom management. Acupuncture tries to restore balance in the body by treating both the symptoms and the causes of nausea and vomiting. Traditional treatments focus on treating the symptoms only. More and more people are interested in integrative medicine, which takes the best parts of both old and new ways of treating illnesses. 

Studies have indicated that patients receiving acupuncture report higher satisfaction with their care, highlighting the importance of considering patient preferences in treatment plans. [6]

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session for PONV

Initial Consultation

• A typical acupuncture session begins with a thorough consultation.
• The acupuncturist assesses the patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and any specific concerns related to their surgery and recovery.
• This assessment helps create a tailored treatment plan that addresses the individual needs of the patient.

Needle Insertion

• After the assessment, the patient lies down comfortably.
• The acupuncturist inserts thin, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points, commonly targeting the Pericardium 6 (P6) point.
• Additional points may be included based on the patient’s unique situation.
• Needles typically remain in place for about 20 to 30 minutes, during which patients may experience relaxation and mild tingling sensations in the treated areas.
• Many find the process soothing, and some may even fall asleep during the session.

Number of Sessions

• The number of sessions required for effective nausea relief can vary based on individual needs and symptom severity.
• Generally, patients may benefit from 3 to 10 sessions, often scheduled in close succession initially, followed by maintenance treatments as needed.
• Immediate effects, such as a reduction in nausea intensity, may be experienced shortly after the session, but full benefits might take a few sessions to manifest.

Potential Side Effects and Contraindications

• Acupuncture is considered safe for most patients, but some potential side effects and contraindications exist.
• Common side effects may include minor bruising, soreness at the needle insertion sites, or fatigue following the session.
• Patients with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or those who are pregnant, should consult their healthcare provider before undergoing acupuncture treatment.

Who Can Benefit from Acupuncture for PONV

Acupuncture can be particularly beneficial for several groups of patients experiencing post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV).

Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia

Individuals undergoing surgeries that require general anesthesia are ideal candidates, as studies show a strong correlation between the use of anesthetics and the incidence of PONV.

Patients Using Opioid Medications

Those prescribed opioid medications for pain management post-surgery may also find relief through acupuncture, as opioids are known to exacerbate nausea and vomiting symptoms.

Patients with Specific Conditions

Acupuncture is suitable for patients with specific conditions or sensitivities that make them more prone to nausea and vomiting.

Individuals with a History of Motion Sickness

Patients who have experienced motion sickness, migraines, or previous episodes of PONV are likely to benefit from acupuncture treatments.

Underlying Imbalances

The therapy can help mitigate symptoms by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body contributing to nausea.

Patients with Medication Sensitivities

Those with sensitivities to medications may prefer acupuncture as a natural alternative.

Adverse Effects from Traditional Antiemetics

Patients experiencing adverse effects from traditional antiemetic medications—such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or allergic reactions—can consider acupuncture as a safe and effective adjunct therapy.

Promoting Overall Well-Being

This approach not only targets nausea but also promotes overall well-being and recovery.

Acupuncture as a Natural Solution for Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting

Acupuncture is a natural way to help with post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and it has many other benefits for people who are having surgery. One of the best things about acupuncture is that it can help people who are sick with nausea and vomiting feel better without the side effects that most antiemetic drugs have. Studies have shown that acupuncture, particularly at the Pericardium 6 (P6) point, can significantly reduce both the severity and duration of PONV, making it an effective adjunct treatment for many patients.

In addition, acupuncture treats not only the symptoms of nausea but also the imbalances that may be causing them. This improves overall health and speeds up the healing process. This makes it particularly suitable for patients with specific sensitivities or those who may be prone to experiencing PONV due to various factors, such as general anesthesia or opioid use.

If you are thinking about using acupuncture to help your recovery, you should talk to a licensed acupuncturist first. These professionals can make treatment plans that are unique to each person’s needs and situation, making sure that the way they handle PONV is safe and effective. Acupuncture is a natural, drug-free treatment that patients can try after surgery to help them feel better and get better faster.

Take Action Today! If you’re experiencing nausea and vomiting after surgery or know someone who is, call Irvine Meridian Health Center now to discuss how acupuncture can support recovery and improve quality of life. Don’t let PONV disrupt your healing journey—explore this natural solution and take the first step toward relief!