Can moxibustion be applied to the abdomen during early pregnancy?
Generally, moxibustion on the abdomen is not recommended during early pregnancy, especially self-administered treatment. It should only be cautiously performed under special circumstances and after diagnosis and guidance by a qualified physician. The detailed explanation is as follows:

During early pregnancy, embryo implantation is unstable. There are multiple acupoints related to reproduction in the abdominal area. The thermal stimulation from moxibustion may interfere with embryonic development and increase risks such as abdominal pain and bleeding. Additionally, the warming effect of moxibustion can accelerate local blood circulation, stimulate the sensitive uterus, potentially trigger uterine contractions, and thus negatively affect pregnancy stability.
If there are specific health concerns during early pregnancy that require moxibustion for regulation, the procedure must be conducted solely by an experienced and qualified practitioner. The physician will strictly control the selection of acupoints, duration, and temperature of the moxibustion, avoiding the core area where the uterus is located to prevent inappropriate stimulation. Self-administered moxibustion carries a high risk due to incorrect acupoint location or improper heat control.
During early pregnancy, adequate rest should be prioritized, and any unnecessary stimulation to the abdomen should be avoided. If discomfort occurs, it is advisable to adjust diet, engage in moderate physical activity, or seek safe, professional medical advice.