Is acupuncture safe while taking Aspirin?

Acupuncture is generally considered low risk, but aspirin thins the blood by reducing platelet function, which can raise the chance of minor bleeding or bruising at needle sites. ^[1] Even low doses of aspirin can prolong bleeding time, so small hematomas or oozing can happen more easily during needle-based procedures. ^[2] Because of this, it’s wise to take a few extra precautions and coordinate with your healthcare team before you book a session. ^[3]

How aspirin affects bleeding

• Aspirin is an antiplatelet drug; it makes it harder for blood to clot, which can increase bleeding risk, especially when combined with other blood‑affecting medicines or supplements. ^{[1] [4]}
• Even at low doses, aspirin can inhibit platelet function and lengthen bleeding time. ^[2]
• Many medical procedures that puncture the skin add special instructions about aspirin due to this effect; importantly, you should not stop prescribed aspirin unless your clinician tells you to. ^{[5] [6]}

What this means for acupuncture

• Acupuncture uses very thin needles, and most bleeding if any is usually a pinpoint drop or minor bruising; however, with aspirin, the chance of visible bruising or prolonged oozing can be somewhat higher. ^[7]
• People with low platelets (thrombocytopenia) or other bleeding risks need extra caution with acupuncture; make sure your acupuncturist knows your situation. ^[8]

Practical precautions to take

• Tell every practitioner you see that you take aspirin, including dose and reason (for example, heart protection). This allows them to adjust techniques and avoid high‑risk points or deeper needling. ^[1]
• Do not stop aspirin on your own; only pause or adjust it if your prescribing clinician specifically advises it for a procedure. ^{[5] [6]}
• Ask your acupuncturist to use gentle techniques, apply firm pressure after needle removal, and avoid areas where bleeding would be problematic (for example, highly vascular areas) to reduce bruising. ^[7]
• Avoid combining aspirin with other over‑the‑counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) unless your clinician approves, as this can further raise bleeding risk. ^{[1] [3]}
• Be cautious with supplements that can thin the blood (for example, fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic, danshen, evening primrose oil), especially around treatment days, and review them with your clinician. ^{[4] [5]}
• Plan your session when you can rest afterward and monitor any bleeding or bruising; holding steady pressure for a few minutes after needle removal helps. ^[7]

When to seek medical advice

• If you notice bleeding that does not stop with 10–15 minutes of steady pressure, expanding swelling/hematoma, dizziness, or signs of significant blood loss, seek prompt care. ^[1]
• If you have a known bleeding disorder, very low platelets, active ulcers, or are on multiple blood‑thinning medicines, discuss risks and alternatives with your clinician before scheduling acupuncture. ^{[2] [4]}

Medication and supplement checklist

• Review all prescription and nonprescription medicines with your clinician to spot combinations that increase bleeding risk alongside aspirin (for example, additional NSAIDs, certain antidepressants, corticosteroids). ^[4]
• If your healthcare team advises any peri‑procedural changes for skin‑breaking procedures, follow their specific timeline; otherwise, continue aspirin as prescribed. ^{[5] [6]}

Bottom line

Acupuncture can often be performed while you’re taking aspirin, but the chance of minor bleeding or bruising is higher due to aspirin’s antiplatelet effect. ^[1] With informed practitioners, gentle technique, and good after‑needle pressure, most people do well, and you should never stop aspirin unless your own clinician tells you to. ^{[2] [5]}