The risks of acupuncture are low if you have a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner using sterile needles. Common side effects include soreness and minor bleeding or bruising where the needles were inserted. Single-use, disposable needles are now the practice standard, so the risk of infection is minimal. The needles are solid, unlike hypodermic needles, and are more shallowly inserted into the skin. Please ask if you have any specific questions regarding the safety of acupuncture treatments and always check that you are being treated by a qualified acupuncturist. It is also very important to tell your practitioner about serious illnesses, especially easy bruising and problems with clotting.