What happens during an acupuncture appointment and how should I prepare?

It’s completely normal to feel a little apprehensive about trying acupuncture for the first time. Most of us have a negative association with needles, so it’s understandable to wonder what the experience will be like.

The reality is that acupuncture is a very gentle treatment, and many people tell me it’s one of the most relaxing parts of their week. Knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety and hopefully make your first session feel like something to look forward to.

Before your appointment

Booking and initial consultation

When you book a session, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the practical details, including directions and a health questionnaire to complete beforehand. Filling this in ahead of time helps me prepare for your appointment and means we can spend less time on paperwork and more time focusing on you.

During our initial consultation, we’ll go through your health and medical history in detail. We’ll talk about your symptoms, your expectations and your lifestyle, but we’ll also delve into things like digestion, sleep, nutrition, stress levels and, where relevant, your menstrual cycle.

Every little detail is a clue for me - another piece of the puzzle that helps build a picture of what’s going on and informs your treatment plan. It’s also your opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

One of the nicest pieces of feedback I hear from clients is that they’re grateful to finally feel listened to and to have someone looking at their health as a whole, rather than focusing on a single symptom.

After our chat, you’ll lie comfortably on the treatment bed and I’ll explain exactly how the needles work and what you can expect throughout the treatment.

How to prepare

I always recommend arriving on a happy stomach - not overfull, but definitely not empty. (Otherwise, I may insist on finding you a snack!) It is important to stay well hydrated before and especially after the session.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing if you can, although I know many people come straight from work or are fitting appointments around busy schedules. We have plenty of towels and blankets available, and you may only need to remove a small amount of clothing depending on your treatment.

If possible, try to avoid alcohol, excessive caffeine and anything particularly stressful immediately before or after your appointment. Giving yourself a little breathing space allows your body to properly absorb the treatment and helps you get the most from it.

During your appointment

Where do the needles go?

The most common areas for treatment are the legs, feet, arms and abdomen, although this varies depending on your individual needs. There is usually a balance of points across different areas of the body rather than everything being concentrated in one place.

I typically use somewhere between 6 and 13 needles during a treatment.

Everyone experiences acupuncture differently, but many people describe feeling deeply relaxed once the needles are in place.

Relaxation Period

Once the needles are in, they usually stay in place for around 20–30 minutes.

This is your time to simply rest. You can listen to the music, practise some gentle breathing, drift off to sleep or simply enjoy having nowhere else to be for a little while.
If relaxing doesn’t come naturally, don’t worry. I’m always happy to guide you through some simple breathing exercises. Treatments are calm, quiet and designed to give your nervous system a chance to switch off for a while.

Needle Removal

Removing the needles is quick and straightforward and is rarely felt at all.

Once you’re up and feeling ready, we’ll have a brief chat about how you’re feeling, discuss any aftercare advice and arrange your next appointment.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

This is probably the question I’m asked most often.

Some people don’t feel the needles at all. Others notice a mild tingling sensation, warmth, heaviness or a slight dull ache around the point, but it shouldn’t be painful. If anything ever feels uncomfortable (which is rare), we simply remove or adjust the needle.

It’s also worth remembering that acupuncture needles are incredibly fine - typically around 0.18–0.22 mm in diameter - and are much thinner than the hollow needles used for injections or blood tests.

After your appointment

What Can You Expect After Treatment?

Everyone responds a little differently, depending on why they’re having treatment and what else is going on in their life.

Many people leave feeling calm, lighter and deeply relaxed. Others feel energised or notice they’ve slept particularly well that night.

The best thing you can do afterwards is stay hydrated, eat well and, if possible, avoid rushing straight back into a stressful environment. Giving yourself a little time to let the treatment settle can make all the difference.

Are there any side effects?

Acupuncture is generally very gentle, and most people feel perfectly well after treatment. As mentioned above, the most common "side effect" is feeling deeply relaxed!
Occasionally, you may notice a small bruise where a needle was, or experience a slight ache or heaviness around a point for a short time afterwards. Some people feel a little tired and sleep particularly well that night, while others leave feeling refreshed and energised.

Very occasionally, people can feel a little light-headed after treatment, which is one of the reasons I always recommend coming on a happy stomach and staying well hydrated. If you ever feel unwell during or after a session, just let me know and we’ll make sure you’re comfortable before you leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Safety and Professional Standards

Safety and cleanliness are always a top priority in my practice.

Every needle is sterile and single-use and is only ever placed on a clean stainless-steel surface before treatment. The treatment bed is thoroughly cleaned between clients and covered with fresh couch roll for every appointment. I also wash my hands before every treatment and between every client.

As a member of the British Acupuncture Council and accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, I’m committed to maintaining the highest professional and hygiene standards.

If you have any medical conditions, are pregnant, or have anything you think I should know about, it’s important to let me know before treatment so we can ensure your care is both safe and appropriate.

Some frequently asked questions about acupuncture

How Many Sessions Will You Need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but in an ideal world I usually recommend an initial course of 6 to 8 weekly sessions. This allows us to build momentum and benefit from the cumulative effects of treatment.

The number of sessions you need will depend on what you’re coming for and how long you’ve been experiencing symptoms.

If you’re looking for general health maintenance, seasonal treatments can work really well. If you’re preparing for natural conception or IVF, ideally we’d work together over at least three months, supporting your body at each stage of your menstrual cycle.

Is acupuncture suitable during pregnancy?

Yes, acupuncture can be used safely during pregnancy when provided by a suitably qualified and trained practitioner with experience in pregnancy care (which I am).
Many women choose acupuncture to support them through different stages of pregnancy, whether that’s helping with nausea in the first trimester, managing aches and pains as their bump grows, or preparing for birth in the final weeks. Every treatment is tailored to the individual and takes into account both your health and your stage of pregnancy.
If you’re pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are trying to conceive, it’s always important to let me know before treatment so your care can be planned appropriately.

Can acupuncture be used alongside conventional medical treatment?

Absolutely. Most of my clients continue with the care and advice they’re receiving from their GP, consultant, physiotherapist or other healthcare professionals while having acupuncture.

Acupuncture is best thought of as a therapy that complements rather than replaces your conventional medicine. It can sit alongside your existing treatment plan, supporting your overall wellbeing while you continue with any prescribed medications or medical care.

It’s always helpful for me to know about any diagnoses, medications or treatments you’re receiving so that I can provide the most appropriate care and ensure your treatment is tailored to your individual circumstances.

Read more frequently asked questions

Conclusion

Acupuncture sessions are typically calm, gentle and highly personalised experiences. I encourage open communication throughout - you can tell me as much or as little as you feel comfortable sharing. I’ve heard a lot over the years, and you’ll never be judged for what you come with.

Preparing well for your appointment and giving yourself a little time to rest afterwards can help you get the most from your treatment. It’s also important to have realistic expectations. While some people notice changes after just one session, for many health concerns, acupuncture works best as a course of treatment, with improvements building gradually over time.

My aim is always to meet you where you are, support you as an individual, and create a space where you can properly slow down, feel listened to and begin to restore balance.

If you have any further questions you can:

• Book a free discovery call
• Email me: hello@saskiahawkins.com