8 Effective Acupressure Points to Induce Labor
Pregnancy is a period full of anticipation. Every day is a new day. However, the period when you are getting close to due dates can be really stressful and mother can get really anxious. Since due dates are simply estimates, some parents can expect early labor, while others can expect a slight delay. Experiencing delay is a common thing, but it still gets very worrying. So, what to do in such a situation? Unless advised by your doctor, you may not risk-taking medical help. Nonetheless, home remedies or alternative medical approach like acupressure are deemed safe. Many overdue mothers try stimulating acupressure points to induce labor in the event of overdue pregnancy. It is quite a popular method among expecting mothers.
Understanding Acupressure
What is acupressure? Acupressure is one of the many traditional Chinese medical approaches. It is similar to acupuncture, except it is called acupuncture without needles. The primary goal of acupressure as a healing practice is restoring balance in the body, treat illness, and promote overall well-being. Therefore, this field of therapy uses physical pressure to stimulate certain points that are connected to the channels or meridians in the body. Through which the life energy flows to the vital organs of the body.
This method is used to heal several medical issues such as anxiety, chronic pains, digestive problems, and even inducing labor pain. Alongside, it is even used to help ease labor pain and discomfort caused by it. Many times, people use it as an alternative medical technique to recover from the side effects of severe illnesses, injuries, and its treatments’ side effects.
Acupressure for labor pain
While the effectiveness of acupressure is still a debatable topic, it is said to use it with caution, especially during pregnancy. Experts suggest that acupressure is safe to use in the first 10 to 12 weeks to ease out pregnancy pains and last four weeks to induce labor. Stimulating these points gently helps improve the blood flow to the uterus and activates a hormonal response.
Using pressure points to induce labor is suggested to be safe only when you have passed through the due date and delivery is yet to happen when you are in labor and require contractions, or if your water bag has broken before the labor pain has started. Nonetheless, it is always important to consult your doctor before you use any natural ways to induce labor.
Effective Acupressure Points to Induce Labor
Spleen 6: Spleen 6 is one of the most recommended acupressure points for labor pain. Its effect causes cervical ripening and strengthens contractions for the delivery process. It is situated at the inner part of the feet, just four centimeters above the ankle, next to the tibia. To stimulate this point, use the index finger to gently apply pressure on it for at least a minute. Other than inducing labor pains, this point can heal pelvic disorders, urological issues, and improve sleep patterns.
Pericardium 8: Another frequently used acupressure point for labor. This is a hand point that lies in the center of our palm. It is easy to locate, by making your hand into a fist. This point lies where the middle finger touches the palm. You can use the thumb to activate this point and massage it for a few seconds. Since it is one of the most effective points, it is also known as a palace of labor.
Bladder 48: Also known as B48 or Bladder vitals, this point is widely used for inducing labor pain and relieving hip pain. It is located three chon to the side of the sacrum, at the center of gluteal muscles of the hip. Be careful, if pain exists in this area, you will feel tenderness. Therefore, massaging it gently is important. This point can also treat lower back pain and sciatica pain.
Li4: Liver intestine 4 is commonly used point to relieve severe body pains. It is one of the most versatile and popularly used acupressure points for labor and other health issues. It is located in the web of flesh between the thumb and index finger. Many of us recognize are familiar with it by the name of Union Valley. It is a pair of acupressure points that must be stimulated to experience its benefits. It is effective to heal all kinds of pain, digestive issues and experience a sense of relaxation.
Liver 3: Also known as Tai Chong, this point is located on the feel and it helps in easing labor pain, especially lower back. Other than that, is said to be beneficial for menstrual cramps, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleeping condition. You can look for it at the top of the foot in the between the big toe and second toe, at a distance of three centimeters approximately. You can use your thumb to massage this point.
Kidney Point 1: This acupressure point for labor pain is also called Gushing spring and it is one of the most frequently used points by the reflexologists. It can be found on the sole and it is easy to locate it when the feet are in plantar flexion. Pregnant mothers are advised against rubbing this point on their own because it can cause pressure on their stomach. Therefore, partners are suggested to massage this point gently. This point is also used to relieve stress and anxiety, headaches, and lower back pain.
Gallbladder 21: Jiang jang can activate contractions and it is a natural way to help the baby come to the pelvic region and prepare the mother for delivery. Apart from this, this point can also help mothers find relief from labor pain. It is situated on the shoulders, approximately two centimeters away from the neck. Gentle pressure is all you need to apply to this region.
Bladder 60: Also known as Urinary bladder 60, it is an effective point to manage and induce labor pain. It gives a boost to blood flow and provides relief from difficult labor pain. It is a foot point that is located in the depression between the tip of external malleolus and the Achilles tendon. Other than labor pain, it is effective to relieve lower back pain and headaches.
Acupressure is a widely popular natural remedy for several health issues. It helps you avoid unnecessary medical techniques that can have a few side effects. However, it is suggested to be cautious with this practice and always consult your doctor before using pressure points for labor pain.