Acupressure Points to Help Induce Labor

During the last few weeks of pregnancy, the expectant mother is usually ready for labor to begin. The past nine months have been rough on her, and she may be looking for alternative methods to help get things moving along. One of the more popular methods of inducing labor naturally is acupressure.

What Is Acupressure?

Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body in order to achieve a particular result. Acupressure has been used to treat motion sickness, headaches, diseases and also provide pain relief. It has been effectively used during pregnancy to induce labor and also control the pain associated with childbirth.

How It Works

When pressure is applied to a point on the body, the muscles associated with that point will release the maximum blood flow to reach that part of the body. For someone who would like to naturally induce labor, the opposite occurs. Instead of the muscles releasing, the uterus contracts.

Location of Pressure Points

The two main acupressure points used to induce labor are found on the leg and also the hand. The point that is on the leg is located approximately 4 cm, or about the width of four fingers, above the inside ankle bone. The acupressure point that is located on the hand is between the thumb and pointer finger where the webbing ends and the muscle begins. To locate this point on the hand, spread your hand open so the webbing is exposed. With your finger on the webbing between the thumb and pointer finger, slide your finger that you are using to locate the point toward your wrist. When you feel the muscle instead of just skin, you have located the point.

Techniques

To properly preform acupressure to help induce labor, apply pressure to the point and then move your fingers in a circular pattern. If done correctly, contractions could start within a few minutes. If a contraction occurs, stop applying pressure and rest for 2 minutes. After the contraction is over, continue to apply pressure to the point again and massage in a circular pattern.

Warning

Acupressure should only be used to induce labor after the 38th week of pregnancy. If acupressure is performed before the 38th week, the risk of preterm labor is greatly increased. Always consult your physician before attempting to naturally induce labor.

References

• Giving Birth Naturally
• Childbirth Solutions Inc.
• Acupressure.com