Period, Pelvic Pain and Pregnancy Community Acupuncture clinic
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here.
This community clinic aims to be an affordable and accessible way to bring acupuncture and Chinese medicine into your toolbox for managing pelvic pain, fertility and pregnancy.
Having worked in reproductive and gynaecological health for the past five years, Lara understands the emotional, physical and financial toll that persistent pelvic pain, infertility, and pregnancy discomfort can take. This clinic is one way we are responding — to help take the edge off, manage pain, and offer ongoing support in a more accessible way.
Offering a low-cost acupuncture option has been a dream of mine and in the works for the past few years. I'm so excited to welcome you into the space.
Have a read through the FAQs below. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to Lara at hello@larablumeracupuncture.com
What is community acupuncture?
Community acupuncture is a way to experience the benefits of acupuncture at a much lower cost than a private session. Treatments are provided in a shared group setting with up to four other people, rather than a private 1:1 room.
Like a yoga class or meditation group - practices that support physical, mental and emotional health that happen collectively. Community acupuncture works the same way. Receiving treatment in a safe, shared space helps break down the isolation that so often comes with persistent pelvic pain, fertility treatment and pregnancy discomfort.
What can I expect?
Treatment takes place in recliner chairs, in a warm and cosy room, alongside up to four other people. The acupuncture style practised is called distal acupuncture, where points below the elbows and knees are used — meaning you stay fully clothed and comfortable throughout. [Read more about distal acupuncture here.]
Where will my session be held?
Sessions are held at MAMA Midwifery in Kensington. You will be greeted by one of the friendly receptionists and directed to the treatment room.
What should I wear?
There's no need to undress for community acupuncture — only your arms and legs are exposed during treatment. Please try to wear loose, stretchy, comfortable clothing that can be rolled up to your elbows and mid-thigh.
As treatment happens in a shared space, you may be seen or overheard by others receiving treatment alongside you. If this doesn't feel right for you, community acupuncture may not be the best fit — Lara also offers private sessions in Carlton and Coburg North.
How long are the treatments?
Initial appointments run for 1 hour; return appointments are 40–45 minutes.
Who will be treating me?
Lara is the principal acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner. For the past five years, and ongoing, she has worked at Elgin House Women's Health alongside gynaecologists and obstetricians — deepening her practice, experience and passion for supporting people through pelvic pain, fertility and pregnancy. She has also worked at Foundation House, a torture and trauma service for people of refugee backgrounds, and at a community clinic in rural Nepal.
What can acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture is a safe, effective and supportive treatment for pelvic pain, fertility and pregnancy. Working to improve circulation, reduce inflammation and support the nervous system, it works holistically to support your health outcomes.
Gynaecological & reproductive health
Painful periods
Endometriosis
Adenomyosis
Vulvodynia
Vaginismus
Undiagnosed pelvic pain
Heavy bleeding
PCOS / PMS
PMDD
Sub-fertility
Couples undergoing ART/IVF
Pre and post embryo transfer
Pregnancy care
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation
Insomnia
Headaches and migraines
Anxiety and depression
Pelvic girdle pain
Back pain
Sciatica
Carpal tunnel
Heartburn and acid reflux
Hypertension
Breech, posterior and malpositioned babies
Cervical readiness
As a preventative modality throughout pregnancy, to support and maintain health