Is facial acupuncture painful?

No — facial needles are extremely fine and most clients feel very little. Many describe a mild tingling or warmth. The most common response is actually falling asleep on the table. We use gentle techniques and believe making you feel comfortable is much more conducive to healing.

Can facial acupuncture help with jaw tension and teeth grinding?

Yes — facial acupuncture targets specific trigger points across the jaw, masseter, temples and forehead to release deeply held muscular tension. Combined with gua sha, it provides lasting relief from jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism) and TMJ dysfunction.

Can acupuncture help with tension headaches and forehead tightness?

Yes — acupuncture targets specific points to release tension across the scalp, brow and temples, improve circulation and calm the nervous system response that drives recurring headaches. Many clients experience relief after just 2–3 sessions.

How is facial acupuncture different from a regular facial?

A regular facial works on the surface of the skin. Facial acupuncture works structurally — stimulating collagen production, improving blood flow, and addressing the internal imbalances that drive skin ageing and facial tension. Results are deeper and longer-lasting.

Can I have facial acupuncture if I also use botox or fillers?

Yes — many of our clients do both. We recommend waiting at least 2 weeks after botox or filler injections before having facial acupuncture. We'll discuss your full treatment history at your consultation.

Are skin health treatments covered by private health insurance?

Facial acupuncture is claimable through private health insurance under your acupuncture extras, depending on your level of cover. Bring your health fund card and we can process the rebate on the spot.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Yes — acupuncture is safe throughout pregnancy when performed by a qualified and experienced Chinese Medicine practitioner trained in prenatal care. All Meraki practitioners are AHPRA registered and trained specifically in pregnancy acupuncture. Every treatment is adapted to your stage of pregnancy and always performed with a gentle approach.

When should I start acupuncture during pregnancy?

You can start at any stage of pregnancy. Many clients come in the first trimester for nausea and anxiety support, continue through pregnancy for pain management and general wellbeing, and begin our pre-birth protocol from 36 weeks. There is no wrong time to start.

What is pre-birth acupuncture and when should I start?

Pre-birth acupuncture is a specific protocol beginning at 36 weeks that prepares your body for labour. It focuses on ripening the cervix, encouraging baby into an optimal position, calming the nervous system and priming the whole body for birth. Weekly sessions from 36 weeks are recommended. Research associates pre-birth acupuncture with shorter labours and reduced rates of medical intervention.

Can acupuncture help turn a breech baby?

Yes — moxibustion applied to acupuncture point BL67 is a well-known method for encouraging breech babies to turn to a head-down position. It is most effective between 32–36 weeks. Our practitioners will assess your individual situation and advise whether this is appropriate for you.

How soon after birth can I come in for postpartum support?

We welcome new mamas from as early as one week after a vaginal birth, and two weeks after a caesarean with medical clearance. The first weeks postpartum are when your body needs the most support — please don't wait until your six-week check.

Can acupuncture help with postnatal depression and anxiety?

Yes — acupuncture and Chinese medicine can form an important part of postnatal mood support alongside any care you're already receiving. We treat postnatal depression, anxiety, baby blues and the emotional shifts of early motherhood gently and without judgment. We always work alongside your GP or mental health team.

Are pregnancy treatments covered by private health insurance?

Acupuncture is claimable on most private health extras funds under your acupuncture benefit. Massage may also be claimable depending on your level of cover. Bring your health fund card to your appointment and we'll process the rebate on the spot.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are hair-thin and most people feel very little. Sensations vary from nothing at all, to a mild tingling, warmth, pressure or heaviness. We use gentle needling techniques and always prioritise your comfort — most clients leave feeling deeply relaxed.

Can acupuncture help with fertility and conception?

Yes — acupuncture supports fertility by enhancing blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, balancing hormones, regulating the menstrual cycle, promoting ovulation and reducing stress. Studies show that Chinese medicine support can significantly increase chances of conception, both naturally and alongside IVF.

Can acupuncture support IVF and IUI?

Yes — acupuncture is widely used to support IVF and IUI cycles. It helps prepare the uterine lining, supports egg quality, reduces side effects of medications, improves response to stimulation and reduces anxiety. We recommend beginning support at least 3 months before your cycle where possible.

Do you support LGBTQI+ individuals and couples with fertility?

Absolutely — at Meraki we are proud to provide affirming, informed and inclusive fertility care for LGBTQI+ individuals and couples. Whether you're exploring donor conception, IVF, IUI or other family-building options, we tailor our support to your unique situation with sensitivity and expertise.

Can acupuncture help with male fertility?

Yes — acupuncture and Chinese medicine can support male fertility by improving sperm quality, motility and count, reducing oxidative stress and supporting hormonal health. We recommend that both partners receive support where possible for the best outcomes.

Can acupuncture help after a miscarriage?

Yes — acupuncture and Chinese medicine provide both physical and emotional support after miscarriage. Physically, treatment helps restore hormonal balance and prepare the body for a future pregnancy. Emotionally, we hold space for grief and healing without judgment. We also support women who experience recurrent miscarriage.

Can you have acupuncture when pregnant?

Yes — acupuncture is safe throughout pregnancy when performed by a qualified Chinese Medicine practitioner trained in prenatal care. It can help with morning sickness, back pain, insomnia, anxiety and preparation for labour. All our practitioners are AHPRA registered.

How long does it take for acupuncture to improve fertility?

We recommend a minimum of 3 months of consistent treatment for the best fertility outcomes — this aligns with the 90-day egg maturation cycle. Many clients notice improvements in cycle regularity, energy and wellbeing within the first 4–6 weeks. We will give you a realistic, personalised timeline at your first consultation.

Is fertility acupuncture covered by private health insurance?

Acupuncture is claimable on most private health extras funds under your acupuncture benefit. Bring your health fund card to your appointment and we will process the rebate on the spot.

Can acupuncture help if I'm already on HRT or MHT?

Absolutely — acupuncture complements MHT beautifully. Many women find it addresses symptoms that hormone therapy alone doesn't fully resolve, such as anxiety, sleep quality, brain fog and mood. We are experienced in working within MHT protocols and are happy to communicate with your GP if needed.

I'm not sure if I'm actually in perimenopause — can you still help?

Yes — you don't need a formal diagnosis to come in. If you're experiencing symptoms that feel like perimenopause, that's enough. We'll assess your full health picture at your first consultation and give you an honest view of what we think is going on and how we can help.

How often do I need acupuncture for perimenopause?

We recommend weekly sessions for the first 6–8 weeks, then fortnightly as symptoms stabilise, then monthly for ongoing maintenance. We review your plan at every stage and adjust based on how your body is responding.

Is acupuncture for perimenopause covered by private health insurance?

Yes — acupuncture is claimable on most private health extras policies under your acupuncture benefit. Bring your health fund card and we'll process the rebate on the spot at your appointment at our Clifton Hill clinic.

Can perimenopause start in your 30s?

Yes — perimenopause can begin as early as the mid-30s, though most women start noticing symptoms in their early-to-mid 40s. If you're experiencing irregular cycles, sleep disruption, mood changes or hot flushes in your late 30s, it's absolutely worth coming in to discuss.

How long does acupuncture take to work for perimenopause?

Sleep quality often improves within 2–3 sessions. Hot flushes and night sweats typically reduce meaningfully within 4–6 sessions. Mood and anxiety take 6–8 sessions. The broader hormonal picture stabilises over 8–12 weeks of consistent treatment.

What is the best natural treatment for perimenopause symptoms?

Acupuncture has the strongest clinical evidence of all natural perimenopause treatments, particularly for hot flushes, sleep disruption and mood changes. At Meraki Holistic Health in Clifton Hill, Melbourne, we combine acupuncture with Chinese herbal medicine, massage and energy healing for a complete multi-modality approach.

Does acupuncture help with perimenopause weight gain?

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine support the metabolic and hormonal factors that contribute to perimenopause weight changes — particularly cortisol regulation, thyroid function and insulin sensitivity. It is best combined with dietary and lifestyle support for the most effective results.

Can acupuncture help if I'm already in full menopause?

Absolutely — acupuncture is appropriate and effective at every stage of menopause, including post-menopause. Many symptoms women experience after their last period — insomnia, joint pain, mood changes, fatigue and cognitive changes — respond very well to acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

Can I have acupuncture if I'm on HRT or MHT for menopause?

Yes — and many women on MHT find acupuncture addresses the symptoms that hormone therapy alone doesn't fully resolve, particularly sleep quality, anxiety, brain fog and joint pain. We are experienced in working alongside MHT and will communicate with your GP if needed.

Are Chinese herbs safe with my current menopause medications?

We take a full medication history before prescribing any herbal formula and check for potential interactions. Some herbal formulas contain phytoestrogens which are generally safe alongside MHT — but we always check first. Your safety is our priority and we will only prescribe what we are confident is safe for your specific situation.

How often do I need acupuncture for menopause?

We typically recommend weekly sessions for the first 6–8 weeks, then fortnightly as symptoms stabilise, then monthly for ongoing maintenance. Many clients transition to monthly sessions long-term and continue because they feel so much better with regular treatment.

How long does acupuncture take to work for menopause?

Sleep quality often improves within 2–3 sessions. Hot flushes typically reduce meaningfully within 4–6 sessions. Mood, energy and cognitive clarity generally improve over 6–8 sessions. We will give you an honest, personalised timeline at your first consultation.

Can acupuncture help with menopause-related weight gain?

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine support the metabolic and hormonal factors that contribute to post-menopausal weight changes — particularly cortisol regulation, thyroid function and insulin sensitivity. It works best as part of a broader dietary and lifestyle approach.

What is the best natural alternative to HRT for menopause?

Acupuncture has the strongest clinical evidence of all natural menopause treatments, particularly for hot flushes and sleep disruption. At Meraki Holistic Health in Clifton Hill, Melbourne, we combine acupuncture with Chinese herbal medicine and energy healing for a comprehensive natural approach to menopause management.

Is acupuncture for menopause covered by private health insurance in Australia?

Yes — acupuncture is claimable on most private health extras policies in Australia. Bring your health fund card to your appointment at our Clifton Hill clinic and we will process your rebate on the spot.

Does lymphatic drainage massage hurt?

Not at all. Manual Lymphatic Drainage uses extraordinarily light pressure — far lighter than a regular massage. Most clients find it deeply calming and many fall asleep during the session. The results are significant despite the gentleness of the technique.

How many lymphatic drainage sessions do I need?

It depends on your reason for coming. For general wellbeing, one session every 4-6 weeks is a lovely maintenance rhythm. For post-surgical swelling, more frequent sessions in the first 2-4 weeks produce the best results. For hormonal bloating, timing sessions around your cycle can be highly effective. We will give you a personalised recommendation at your first session.

What should I wear to a lymphatic drainage session?

Loose, comfortable clothing. Unlike a regular massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage works effectively through light fabric — so you do not need to fully undress. Your practitioner will guide you based on the areas being treated.

Can I have lymphatic drainage if I'm pregnant?

MLD can be appropriate during pregnancy, particularly for leg swelling and fluid retention in the third trimester — but we assess each situation individually. Please contact us before booking and we will advise whether it is right for where you are in your pregnancy.

Who should not have lymphatic drainage?

MLD is not suitable for people with active infection or fever, active cancer not in remission (unless referred by an oncologist), acute deep vein thrombosis, congestive heart failure, or acute kidney disease. If you are unsure, please contact us before booking and we will advise whether MLD is appropriate for your situation.

How is Manual Lymphatic Drainage different to regular lymphatic massage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specific, certified technique developed by Dr Emil Vodder. It uses precise hand movements mapped to the anatomy of the lymphatic system — distinct from general lymphatic massage which may not follow this protocol. Our practitioner is formally trained and certified in MLD technique.

Is lymphatic drainage covered by private health insurance in Australia?

MLD may be claimable under your massage or remedial massage extras benefit depending on your health fund. We recommend checking with your insurer before booking. We will provide a receipt for your claim.

Why are MLD sessions only $90 at Meraki?

Our practitioner completed her MLD certification in early 2026 and is building her practice hours. Offering sessions at $90 for 1 hour during this period allows her to develop her skills while providing real benefit to clients. The quality of care is the same regardless of the price. This offer is available until 31 March 2026.

Can lymphatic drainage help with perimenopause bloating?

Yes — hormonal fluctuation during perimenopause and menopause commonly causes fluid retention and bloating. Manual Lymphatic Drainage helps move this retained fluid, often providing noticeable relief within one session. At Meraki Holistic Health in Clifton Hill we combine MLD with our expertise in women's health and Chinese medicine for a comprehensive approach.

When should I start pre-birth acupuncture?

We recommend beginning at 36 weeks for general labour preparation. If your baby is in a breech or posterior position, we recommend coming in at 33 to 35 weeks when moxibustion and acupuncture are most effective. Even if you are already past 37 weeks it is not too late — starting now is always better than not starting at all.

Is acupuncture safe in late pregnancy?

Yes — when performed by an AHPRA registered Chinese medicine practitioner with specific training and experience in pregnancy acupuncture. All Meraki Holistic Health practitioners are AHPRA registered and have extensive experience treating pregnant women. We use only pregnancy-appropriate points and techniques throughout.

Can acupuncture start my labour?

Pre-birth acupuncture is preparation, not induction — though the line between the two can blur at full term. Unlike medical induction using synthetic syntocinon, acupuncture does not force the body into labour. It supports the natural hormonal and physical cascade that initiates labour so your body is ready and willing when the time is right.

My baby is breech at 35 weeks — what should I do?

Book as soon as possible. Moxibustion on BL-67 combined with acupuncture is most effective between 33 and 36 weeks while there is still room for baby to turn. We will see you as a priority, assess your situation and begin the moxibustion protocol at your first session. We also teach you how to continue moxa treatment at home daily for maximum effect.

Oncology Massage: Gentle, Skilled Support Through Cancer & Beyond

Jul 2
6 min read

A guide to what it is, how it helps, and what to know if you or someone you love is navigating cancer.

If you've landed here, you might be walking through one of the hardest chapters of your life — or standing beside someone who is. First of all, we're so sorry. And second, we want you to know that support exists in more places than you might think.

Oncology massage is one of them.

For a long time, there was a fear that people going through cancer treatment shouldn't be receiving massage at all. That belief has been thoroughly debunked by modern research, and today, some of the world's leading cancer centres — including MD Anderson and Memorial Sloan Kettering — actively offer oncology massage as part of integrated cancer care.

So let's talk about what it actually is, how it can help, and the important things to know before booking in.

What Is Oncology Massage?

Oncology massage is a specialised form of massage therapy tailored to the specific needs of people living with cancer, going through treatment, or in survivorship. It's not a different type of massage so much as a highly informed adaptation of massage — one that considers your diagnosis, treatments, side effects, and where your body is on any given day.

An oncology massage therapist has completed additional training beyond their standard massage qualification. They understand how chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and medications affect the body, and they know how to safely adjust pressure, positioning, and technique to work with your treatment rather than against it.

It's gentle, deeply intentional, and rooted in compassion. As one leading cancer centre puts it, oncology massage is "an approach to massage therapy based in both compassion and specialised massage treatments to help people manage their experience with cancer."

How Oncology Massage Helps

Research on oncology massage has grown significantly over the past two decades, and the findings are quietly powerful. The Society for Integrative Oncology and ASCO now recommend massage as part of managing cancer-related pain, and clinical evidence supports its use for:

🌿 Reducing pain

Pain affects over half of people undergoing cancer treatment and up to 90% of those with advanced cancer. Studies show massage can meaningfully reduce pain intensity and, in some cases, decrease reliance on pain medication.

🌿 Easing nausea from chemotherapy

Research has shown that massage can significantly reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy cycles.

🌿 Improving sleep

Sleep disruption is one of the most common (and exhausting) side effects of cancer treatment. Massage supports deeper, more restorative sleep by calming the nervous system.

🌿 Reducing fatigue

A 2018 study at Emory University's School of Medicine found that breast cancer survivors receiving weekly Swedish massage experienced significantly less cancer-related fatigue than those in control groups.

🌿 Lowering anxiety and depression

Massage has been shown to alleviate emotional distress by reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) and supporting the body's parasympathetic (rest and restore) state. Clinical trials support its use for anxiety and mood disturbances in cancer patients.

🌿 Providing safe, nurturing human touch

This one is harder to measure but so real. Cancer treatment can be isolating and clinical. Being met with gentle, skilled, unhurried touch — touch that doesn't want anything from you — can be quietly profound.

🌿 Supporting overall quality of life

Perhaps the most important benefit of all. Oncology massage isn't about "fixing" anything. It's about softening the edges of a hard experience, and helping you feel a little more like yourself.

An important note: massage is not a treatment for cancer itself. It's a complementary therapy — meaning it works alongside your medical treatment to support your quality of life, not replace it.

Who Should Avoid Oncology Massage (or Modify Their Approach)

This is where the specialised training really matters. There are certain situations where massage needs to be modified, delayed, or in some cases avoided entirely. A properly trained oncology massage therapist will know how to navigate all of these.

Some key considerations include:

🩸 Low platelet count or bleeding risk — Deep pressure is contraindicated because of the increased risk of bruising and bleeding. Gentle, light touch may still be safe.

🩹 Active radiation therapy — The skin in the treated area becomes very sensitive, so massage over that region needs to be avoided until it has healed.

💉 Recent surgery — Incision sites and healing tissue need to be avoided locally. Working around ports (used to deliver chemotherapy) also requires specific training.

🌡️ Low white blood cell count or active infection — When your immune system is suppressed, avoiding exposure is important. Sessions should be delayed until you've been fever-free for at least 48 hours.

🌊 Lymphedema or risk of lymphedema — Regular massage over lymphedema-affected areas can worsen the condition. This requires a therapist specifically trained in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD).

💊 Timing around chemotherapy — Many practitioners recommend avoiding massage the day before or the day after a chemo infusion, when the body is often most fatigued and vulnerable.

🔗 Known blood clots (DVT) — Massage is contraindicated in the affected area due to the risk of dislodging the clot.

🎯 Over tumour sites — A trained oncology massage therapist will never work directly over a known tumour site.

The good news is that a well-trained oncology massage therapist will ask you all the right questions before your session and adapt accordingly. This is why choosing the right practitioner matters so much.

FAQs: What People Often Want to Know

"Can massage make my cancer spread?"

This is one of the most common fears, and we want to be really clear: no. There is no scientific evidence that massage causes cancer to spread. This concern stems from outdated beliefs that have been thoroughly disproven by modern research. Leading cancer centres worldwide now actively recommend and offer oncology massage as part of care.

"Can I get a massage during chemotherapy?"

Yes — with the right practitioner and appropriate modifications. Most oncology massage therapists will recommend avoiding sessions the day before or after an infusion, and adjusting pressure to be gentle. It's also important to speak with your oncology team so they're across your care plan.

"What about after surgery? How soon can I book in?"

This depends on the type of surgery, how you're healing, and your medical team's guidance. Generally, incision sites are avoided until fully healed, but massage on unaffected areas can often be introduced earlier than people expect. Always check in with your specialist first.

"Do I need my oncologist's permission?"

While a formal referral isn't always required, we strongly recommend having a conversation with your oncology team before starting. They can flag anything specific to your case, and it helps us provide the safest, most supportive care. A good oncology massage therapist welcomes that collaboration.

"What does an oncology massage actually feel like?"

Gentle. Slow. Deeply intentional. Pressure is generally lighter than a "regular" massage, and every part of the session — from how you're positioned to what oils are used to how long you're on the table — is adapted to your body and where you are that day. Some sessions may focus on just one area (like a scalp massage, or hands and feet). Some days that's exactly what your body needs.

"How often should I have a session?"

This varies enormously depending on where you are in treatment and how your body is responding. Some people benefit from weekly sessions during active treatment. Others prefer fortnightly or monthly. Your therapist will help you find a rhythm that supports rather than depletes you.

"What about survivors — is oncology massage still relevant after treatment ends?"

Absolutely. The effects of cancer treatment often linger long after the last infusion or radiation session — fatigue, scar tissue, lymphatic changes, nervous system dysregulation, and emotional processing can all continue for months or years. Oncology massage can be a beautiful part of long-term recovery and integration.

"How do I choose the right therapist?"

Look for someone with specific oncology massage training (beyond a general massage qualification). They should ask detailed questions about your diagnosis, treatments, medications, and current symptoms. They should be comfortable liaising with your medical team if needed. And crucially — they should feel like someone you want to be held by.

A Final Word from Us

If you're considering oncology massage for yourself or a loved one, please know this: reaching out is a beautiful act of self-care. Cancer takes so much. Choosing to receive gentle, informed, compassionate touch — even for an hour — is a way of reminding your body that it still deserves softness. That it still deserves care.

You are not asking for too much. You are exactly right to want this.

If you'd like to chat about whether oncology massage might be right for you, or you have any questions at all, we're only ever a message away 💛

With love,The Meraki Team

A note: This blog is educational and not medical advice. Please always consult your oncology team before starting any complementary therapy during cancer treatment.

Sources & further reading:

MD Anderson Cancer Center — Integrative Medicine Program
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center — Massage Therapy
Society for Integrative Oncology / ASCO Guidelines (Mao et al., 2022)
American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA)
Society for Oncology Massage
World Cancer Research Fund