From reducing morning sickness to inducing labor, acupressure techniques have aided pregnant women for years. During an acupressure session, a practitioner applies pressure to specific points on the client's body to relieve symptoms. Acupressure points and techniques can also be taught to women or to their partners to use at home to relieve symptoms. Acupressure is considered extremely safe, but it is best to consult with a doctor and acupressure practitioner before beginning any therapy during pregnancy.
The P6 Point for Nausea
A study at Lund University in Sweden concluded that healthy women could benefit from acupressure to reduce nausea during pregnancy. In this study, women who received pressure to the P6 or Neiguan acupressure point experienced reduced nausea and vomiting after one acupressure session. The results lasted for approximately 2 weeks.
The Neiguan acupressure point is located on the inside the wrists about three finger-widths from the wrist crease between the two tendons. Pressing the point with your fingers or wearing wristbands that apply even pressure to this point can help to relieve nausea. Acupressure wristbands are available at health food stores, drug stores, and travel stores.
The Wei Chung Point for Back Pain
Pregnant women may experience lower back pain from the changes in their body. Fitness Magazine recommends the UB40 or Wei Chung acupressure point located in the center of the indentation in the back of the knees to relieve any discomfort associated with the back. It is advised to apply firm and even pressure to this point for maximum effectiveness.
The K1 Point for Stress Relief
The American Pregnancy Association reports that studies done between 1997 and 2007 indicate that prenatal massage can help to reduce stress during pregnancy. Women who received biweekly massage sessions during pregnancy experienced reduced levels of norepinephrine and cortisol, the body's natural stress hormones, and increased levels of dopamine and serotonin, the feel-good hormones. One option for prenatal massage sessions is acupressure. The K1 Point is located in approximately one-third of the way down the sole of the foot. This point falls within the indentation on the sole. At home, applying pressure in an upward motion toward the largest toe has been shown to reduce feelings of stress.
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