About Me

I have a BSc Honours in TCM Acupuncture from the Northern College of Acupuncture, which included over 400 hours of clinic supervision. I also have an MSc in Herbal Medicine, which included an additional 250 hours of clinical supervision. I am a member of professional bodies AAC (Association of Acupuncture Clinicians) and RCHM (Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine), a Facial Enhancement Affiliate and have completed several fertility-specific courses, although the beauty of this medicine and the human body is that there is always something new to learn. I have a Birmingham City Council premises license and an environmental health certificate and am also up-to-date with First Aid training. Hopefully having all of this under my belt will allow you to feel in safe hands and know you’ll be treated with high standards of care, hygiene and service.

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Over the past few years, my interest in fertility treatments has expanded. Initially, I felt that as I don’t currently have children, I wouldn’t meet the criteria to be able to offer treatment to people who were on their journeys to parenthood. Then my 30s arrived and I realised that I don’t need to have children to acknowledge and respect those seeking to grow their families. So since 2020 I have continuously been attending CPDs and working through courses specialising in reproductive health – achieving 98% in a female fertility exam and 100% in a male fertility exam (Giovanni Maciocia Online). I have completed a 6-week gynaecology training course and am now proceeding with the Advanced Fertility Support Diploma to become an associate.

I enjoy the outdoors and hiking with my Jack Russell, Bridget. I enjoy travelling and have visited over 70 countries. I grow a lot of my fruit and vegetables and rescue ex-battery hens from the BHWT so I also have fresh, free-range eggs. I discovered herbal medicine as a teenager following over a year of taking conventional medicine with no success, yet after 12 weeks of herbal medicine, I have never looked back nor needed conventional medicine for this issue since. I discovered acupuncture through my Auntie Phillippa, who used it as part of her palliative care plan and couldn’t recommend it more highly for her pain management, appetite and energy levels.

I’ve worked as an acupuncturist internationally, having practised in Bermuda, Canada, USA, Argentina and Antarctica. I’ve also spoken at seminars on many different conditions Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine can treat successfully.

Laura The Acupuncturist is based in Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield and the clinic provides you with a quiet, relaxing space to allow you to open up and be heard about your health. TCM (Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine) offers a natural and wholesome approach to your health care and looks at you as an individual – all relevant aspects of your health and well-being in a personalised treatment. It’s a great tool to add to your integrative healthcare journey.

Laura The Acupuncturist
5.0
Based on 18 reviews
review us on
Jim Cartledge
09:24 29 Aug 24
Saw Laura for a couple of months and found her treatment very helpful. She is super friendly, very knowledgeable and put me at ease in every session. Strongly recommend.
Becky Jackson
13:11 13 Jul 24
Laura is so lovely, kind & thorough. Laura has helped so much with my fibromyalgia pain & is continuing to work on other medical issues I have. I am very grateful for her immense knowledge & guidance.
Abby Sweeting
11:14 01 Apr 24
Laura is my hero!She's knowledgeable, professional, friendly, caring, warm, and often speaks of conferences she's attended or the latest research papers she's been reading - a clear sign that she's committed to being the very best acupuncturist and providing a top-notch service to all.I have pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and have tried everything under the sun to manage the psychological symptoms of that, but nothing has worked. Until I met Laura the Acupuncturist. After just three sessions, I was actually feeling good during the luteal phase of my cycle. SSRIs have nothing on Laura! The difference has been truly staggering, and I can't thank Laura enough for giving me that part of my life back :)She's also stopped me clenching my jaw (and the subsequent headaches!), seemingly cured my hay fever, and pretty much got rid of my plantar fasciitis.I don't know how she's doing it, but I think she's a superhero. Plus, you can't help but feel calm and relaxed after a visit. I wish I had a mini Laura at home that I could chat to whenever I need a bit of a boost!If you're considering acupuncture, go and see Laura - you won't regret it.
Emilia Papadopoullos
15:28 06 Mar 24
I’ve been having weekly sessions with Laura for over a month now and have seen a huge improvement in my health. We were working on digestive function, energy, immunity, mood and hormones. Laura is so kind, caring and knowledgable. She explained how the treatments would work, and why she chose each acupuncture point for me. The sessions are also so relaxing - highly recommend!
Jessica Jane Collins
15:59 01 Dec 23
The absolute best in the business. Beyond amazing! My hormones post Accupunture have NEVER been more balanced! Laura is INCREDIBLE and I cannot recommend her enough! Amazing
Nigel Cox
18:50 04 Oct 23
I visited Laura after a severe injury to my foot, which was constantly causing me discomfort and pain.Her approach to my treatment was superb, really reassuring and I felt completely at ease.Her working environment was very clean and if I’m honest I could have fallen asleep.To early to comment on the success, but for the overall experience 5⭐️
Elly T
11:41 26 Sep 23
Lovely relaxing space. Laura listened to all my issues and then carried out acupuncture session. The fibromyalgia type pain was reduced and I felt very chilled out afterwards. Didn’t hurt and felt safe in her care. Looking forward to next session and more relief from my pain. Thankyou.

5.0
review us on
Jim Cartledge
09:24 29 Aug 24
Saw Laura for a couple of months and found her treatment very helpful. She is super friendly, very knowledgeable and put me at ease in every session. Strongly recommend.
Becky Jackson
13:11 13 Jul 24
Laura is so lovely, kind & thorough. Laura has helped so much with my fibromyalgia pain & is continuing to work on other medical issues I have. I am very grateful for her immense knowledge & guidance.
Abby Sweeting
11:14 01 Apr 24
Laura is my hero!She's knowledgeable, professional, friendly, caring, warm, and often speaks of conferences she's attended or the latest research papers she's been reading - a clear sign that she's committed to being the very best acupuncturist and providing a top-notch service to all.I have pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and have tried everything under the sun to manage the psychological symptoms of that, but nothing has worked. Until I met Laura the Acupuncturist. After just three sessions, I was actually feeling good during the luteal phase of my cycle. SSRIs have nothing on Laura! The difference has been truly staggering, and I can't thank Laura enough for giving me that part of my life back :)She's also stopped me clenching my jaw (and the subsequent headaches!), seemingly cured my hay fever, and pretty much got rid of my plantar fasciitis.I don't know how she's doing it, but I think she's a superhero. Plus, you can't help but feel calm and relaxed after a visit. I wish I had a mini Laura at home that I could chat to whenever I need a bit of a boost!If you're considering acupuncture, go and see Laura - you won't regret it.
Emilia Papadopoullos
15:28 06 Mar 24
I’ve been having weekly sessions with Laura for over a month now and have seen a huge improvement in my health. We were working on digestive function, energy, immunity, mood and hormones. Laura is so kind, caring and knowledgable. She explained how the treatments would work, and why she chose each acupuncture point for me. The sessions are also so relaxing - highly recommend!
Jessica Jane Collins
15:59 01 Dec 23
The absolute best in the business. Beyond amazing! My hormones post Accupunture have NEVER been more balanced! Laura is INCREDIBLE and I cannot recommend her enough! Amazing
Nigel Cox
18:50 04 Oct 23
I visited Laura after a severe injury to my foot, which was constantly causing me discomfort and pain.Her approach to my treatment was superb, really reassuring and I felt completely at ease.Her working environment was very clean and if I’m honest I could have fallen asleep.To early to comment on the success, but for the overall experience 5⭐️
Elly T
11:41 26 Sep 23
Lovely relaxing space. Laura listened to all my issues and then carried out acupuncture session. The fibromyalgia type pain was reduced and I felt very chilled out afterwards. Didn’t hurt and felt safe in her care. Looking forward to next session and more relief from my pain. Thankyou.

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Frequently Asked Question

Can Acupuncture help me?

Acupuncture can help with so many conditions and concerns. From headaches to gout in the feet. From erectile dysfunction to a stiff neck. Chronic and acute conditions. Preventative treatments and treatments for degenerative conditions. It is almost endless, so it’s best to speak with your practitioner about how it can help you specifically.
How does it work?

There is a lot of evidence supporting the multitude of different ways acupuncture works. Ask your practitioner about how it will influence your body depending on your conditions/symptoms. Some of the basic ways it has been proven to work are: reducing histamine levels to reduce inflammation[1], boosting nerve growth hormone to manage nervous system conditions[2], resetting your body into a rest and digest state (PSNS) to reduce stress levels, aid digestion and improve sleep[3].
Does it hurt?

In general, acupuncture is a painless procedure and most people end up falling asleep during their treatments. It is common to feel more sensitive some times than others though and some factors include the position of the menstrual cycle, how well you slept last night and your body temperature; these can all have an impact on your response to the needles. Rarely and in worst case, if the needle placement is uncomfortable, it can either be adjusted or removed, depending on the sensation you experience. So, rule of thumb is no, but it is OK if you feel ‘something’.

For reference, if you have ever given blood or had an injection, you can fit FORTY acupuncture needles INSIDE of that hypodermic needle’s opening! Honestly, they’re tiny – so good luck finding one in a haystack!
Is it safe?

When performed by a trained, licensed acupuncturist then yes, it is very safe. Ensure your acupuncturist has completed a university degree in acupuncture specifically for a minimum of 3 years (3,000 hours practical experience) and belongs to a registered body. There is a small risk of bruising but the only other side effects may be increased tiredness or energy levels (depending o your treatment) and reduced blood pressure. It is common to feel slightly light headed when you first stand immediately after treatment, due to the lowered blood pressure, but this is relieved in a few moments and with a sip of water. Laura studied acupuncture at university for four years, is doing an additional three years in Chinese Herbal Medicine, has been practicing since 2017 and has successfully treated hundreds of (if not over a thousand) people.
I’m on medication, can I still have acupuncture?

Absolutely! You may find that the acupuncture relieves the side effects of your medication and can support the effects of the medication. Over the counter drugs may not be needed as often as the effects of the acupuncture take strength, but prescription medication is always to be taken as advised by your GP. If you’re taking blood thinners, you can still have acupuncture treatments but you will be at a much greater risk of bruising, so this is something to be aware of. Herbal Medicine can support or have interactions with your pharmaceutical medicines, so it is very important to make your practitioner aware of your prescription drugs.
What if I’m afraid of needles?

I’ve worked with plenty of people with needle-phobia. I completely understand that (unless you’re an acupuncturist) it’s not an everyday situation to have someone inserting needles into you. I am happy to answer any questions you wish to ask, or to “just get on with it” and insert them as quickly as possible. Breathing techniques can be applied and distraction techniques. But with some patience and trust built, I have every faith that you’ll be able to overcome it and relax into your treatment. There have been one or two I thought were impossible, but their results were so worth their initial fears and made it all worthwhile.
What do I need to do to prepare for a treatment?

Please ensure you fill out your consultation form as accurately and honestly as you can. There are questions that may seem irrelevant but please answer every question (exception: menstrual section if you have never had a menstrual cycle), as these answers will allow your practitioner to understand the way your body works and is interacting with itself and therefore, provide the best treatment plan suited to you.

Stay hydrated and don’t arrive hungry. It’s common to feel slightly lightheaded after your treatment for a few moments, but this can be eased by being hydrated and not feeling hungry.

Dress baggy. It’s not a fashion show so make sure you’re comfortable when you arrive. Acupuncture points are all over your body so you may be asked to expose, your back, foot, leg, elbow etc for the treatment, so baggy clothes are much easier to work with. Your consent and comfort is my priority, so no intimate areas will ever require exposing.
Is acupuncture covered by my insurance?
The following healthcare insurance companies are accepted by the AAC allowing patients to claim their costs for treatments –

April International – https://uk.april-international.com/en

Beneden Health – 0800 414 8071 ( Mon – Fri 8:45am to 5:30 pm), www.benenden.org.uk

BHSF – 0800 622 552 helpdesk@bhsf.co.uk ( Mon – Fri 8:45am to 5:30 pm), www.benenden.org.uk

CS Healthcare – 0800 917 4325 (Mon-Fri 9am to 5 pm), www.cshealthcare.co.uk

Equips ME – 020 3965 6410, https://www.equipsme.com/

The Exeter – 0300 123 3201, www.the-exeter.com

Freedom Health Care – 0800 470 1765, freedomhealthinsurance.co.uk

General & Medical Healthcare – 0800 980 4601, www.generalandmedical.com

Healix Health Services – tel: 0208 763 3287, email at https://healixhealthservices.co.uk/contact-us

Healthsheild – https://www.healthshield.co.uk

HSF – 0800 917 2208, email at enquiries@hsf.eu.com, www.hsf.co.uk

Medicash – 0800 011 2222, https://www.medicash.org/

Orchard Healthcare – https://orchardhealthcare.co.uk/

Simply Health – 0370 908 3481, customer.services@simplyhealth.co.uk, https://www.simplyhealth.co.uk/

Sovereign Health – 01274 841130

UK HealthCare – 01204 522775

Vitality – https://www.vitality.co.uk/

Westfield – 0114 250 2000, https://www.westfieldhealth.com/

WHA Healthcare – https://www.whahealthcare.co.uk/

WPA – https://www.wpa.org.uk

More insurance companies are adding acupuncture to their list of benefits – this list may not be comprehensive.

If you intent to use you Health Insurance to fund your acupuncture treatments, please contact them first to confirm your covered.

Insurance letters are sent upon request.

Payment of your treatment is required prior or during your appointment time.
Where are you based?
What are your opening hours?
How do I book?

Click ‘Book Online’ at the top of the page and it will show available appointment times.

If you need any assistance, please email LauraTheAcupuncturist@gmail.com

Once you have chosen your appointment time, you’ll be sent a confirmation email with a section on ‘what to expect’ explaining to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, ensure you’re hydrated, etc.

You’ll also receive a consultation form to complete before your appointment time.

Cancellation policy:

Please note that a minimum of 48 hours notice (2 days) is required for appointment changes.

Appointments cancelled or rescheduled within these 48 hours are required to be paid in full.
Can I give blood if I have acupuncture?
What support can I get between treatments?

I will respond as soon as possible for urgent inquiries between appointments; email is the fastest communication method. I encourage you to refer to your aftercare or herb-specific emails first, as they often contain answers to common questions. For all other queries, please note them down to discuss at your next appointment, or we can arrange a 15-minute update call for a fee of £20. Thank you for your understanding.
How long is a session?

We offer an initial consultation with acupuncture treatment that lasts 90 minutes. A follow-up session then lasts 60 minutes. We also offer acupuncture with herbal medicine treatments, at 75 minutes with the initial consultation and a follow-up treatment of one hour.
Are there any side effects?

Acupuncture comes with virtually no risk of any side effects. Rarely bruising may occur at the site of needle insertion. Every care is taken to avoid your discomfort during the insertion of the needles and your practitioner will check in with you regularly to ensure you are comfortable throughout your treatment. We will always provide an in-depth consultation to advise you on the process and ensure you have a clear understanding.
How many sessions of acupuncture will I need?
Can acupuncture improve fertility?

Research shows that acupuncture and herbal medicine are associated with greater odds of natural conception, live birth and IVF outcomes. Laura is experienced at working with couples on their fertility journeys and is constantly undertaking advanced courses to improve her knowledge and remain up to date with the latest research. Laura is also a researcher and conducts trials and studies on acupuncture and herbal medicine’s influences on fertility.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458185/#:~:text=Of%201069%20non%2Ddonor%20cycles,%25%20CI%201.04%20to%202.52)
How quickly does acupuncture work for fertility?

Due to the life cycle of your egg and sperm, regular treatments are required for 12 weeks (weekly acupuncture and/or continuous herbal medicine). Evidence shows this time is enough to show improvements in your egg and sperm quality. Following this initial 12-week programme, this would be the time to return to trying to conceive naturally or begin your IVF cycle, while continuing with treatment at a maintenance dose of herbal medicine or once per fortnight acupuncture treatments. From experience, it may take between 6-12 cycles from this post-12-week point to conceive naturally or evidence shows a significantly increased chance of a positive IVF outcome and live birth. We will go through any test results you have and your medical history and discuss what options are best for you on your journey.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458185/#:~:text=Of%201069%20non%2Ddonor%20cycles,%25%20CI%201.04%20to%202.52)
Where does acupuncture come from?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine, also referred to as TCM. The oldest written evidence we have points to an origin around 100 BC, at the time of the publication of the Huangdi Neijing, This is an ancient medical text from which much of the foundational doctrine of TCM is drawn. However, there is archaeological evidence of sharpened stones and bones dating back about 5,000 years. Acupuncture has been practiced in Europe for over 300 years and herbal medicine dates back about as far as mankind.
Where can I leave a review?
Do you use animal products?
Are the herbs safe?

The herbal pharmacies I work with only issue Herb-Mark quality ingredients and are recommended by the RCHM and EHTPA.

Herbal prescriptions include a complex assortment of different herbs and each individual will have different herbs/proportions. Due to this fact, special care is taken in selecting each herb to ensure there will be no complications with any pharmaceutical medications you may be taking and if necessary, that it will not cause risk to early pregnancy in menstruating women.
What sort of testing can you recommend?

I work with several diagnostic laboratories, including Forth, Genova and Mojo. Testing can be arranged for (and not limited to) gut health, nutrition, hormonal health, immune function, speciality testing, and semen analyses.

Blood withdrawals can be arranged in the clinic, but most testing kits can be sent directly to your home address. Results can be discussed, and a treatment plan can be created during a 60-minute consultation.