How To Learn Labor Acupressure Points

Acupressure is an ancient technique involving the use of placing pressure on certain points of the body to prompt release of energy. In pregnancy, acupressure is used to calm and relax mother during the experience of early pregnancy symptoms, such as morning sickness. In late pregnancy, it is used to induce labor naturally.

The Mayo Clinic notes that acupressure helps symptom relief in some women. However, caution is advised to prevent inducing labor at the wrong point during pregnancy. Simple acupressure can be done at home or with a trained massage therapist. Consult your physician before trying acupressure.

Step 1

Locate a trained prenatal massage therapist. The American Pregnancy Association notes that massage with acupressure, which is a beneficial way to achieve relaxation, eases the aches of pregnancy. Certified prenatal massage therapists are aware of the sensitive pressure points to avoid in pregnant women to prevent early labor. A trained massage therapist can also teach you simple home techniques that will not induce labor prematurely.

Step 2

Educate yourself about the meridians. Accupressure.com explains that meridians are pathways connecting the pressure points to specific internal organs. Knowing on which point to place pressure has a direct impact on symptom relief. For instance, the "Journal of Nursing Research" notes that a 2003 study concludes pressure on meridian LI4, located between the thumb and forefinger, helps decrease pain from first stage labor.

Step 3

Create a chart of pressure points. The website Eclectic Energies offers a detailed list of pressure points including benefits and warnings. Make a chart of specific points to target for pain relief and labor induction for quick reference. Heed caution to prevent causing contractions prematurely. The pressure points SP6 and BL67 may induce uterine contractions and should not be massaged without prior physician consent.

Step 4

Apply pressure directly to the specified point. Once you learn the meridians, execution of technique is next. The fingers and thumb are adequate for placing direct pressure on the target spots. Depending on the intended result, constant pressure or circular motion with pressure stimulates relaxation. When trying to induce contractions, ankle pressure points are stimulated through rubbing and pressing SP6, according to Eclectic Energies.

Step 5

Seek professional advice to insure safety. Using acupressure during pregnancy is beneficial; however, the best way to insure safety with this technique is through professional consultation. Trained practitioners of acupressure are referred to as certified acupressure therapists, certified prenatal massage therapists or specialists in shiatsu. Acupressure is effective, and, due to this, safety is of importance for mother and baby to prevent unnecessary complications.