Efeito da auriculoterapia no manejo da ansiedade em gestantes e puérperas: revisão de escopo

Abstract

Objective: To map the scientific literature on the effects of auriculotherapy for managing anxiety in pregnant and postpartum women. Method: This is a scoping review, with searches in June 2025 in 10 databases using the following Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS) and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), respectively: “Auriculotherapy” / “Auriculotherapy”, “Acupuntura Auricular” / “Acupuncture, Ear”, “Ansiedade” / “Anxiety”, “Gestante” / “Pregnant” and “Período Pós-parto” / “Postpartum Period”. The inclusion criteria were manuscripts available online, in full, that answer the research question, dissertations, theses, ministerial ordinances, guidelines and scientific articles, without a time frame and in any language. Data analysis was descriptive, using tables and graphs to highlight the results. Results: The final sample of 12 studies published from 2013 to 2025, with emphasis on 2023 (25%), followed by 2016 (16%). Regarding the country of origin, 59% of the research was carried out in Brazil and 41% in Asian countries. The interventions used mostly dark mustard seeds, applied to the Shen Men and Anxiety points. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was the main instrument for assessing anxiety. Most studies showed a reduction in the average STAI score and anxiety symptoms in pregnant and postpartum women after auriculotherapy, evidencing effects such as decreased levels of anxiety, low back pain, fatigue, improved sleep and energy. Conclusion: The present study emphasizes the effects of using auriculotherapy in the management of anxiety in pregnant and postpartum women with the promotion of well-being and reduction of anxiety levels as benefits of this practice.