Acupressure is an aspect of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for thousands of years to help prevent and treat illness and maintain good health. You have acupressure points all over your body that lie on meridians, which are pathways that travel throughout your body like a river system and carry qi -- life force energy -- that influences the functioning of your internal organs and bodily systems. Stimulating acupoints can help restore balance within your body and reduce or relieve negative symptoms.
Morning Sickness
Acupressure may provide natural, effective relief for your morning sickness symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting. A popular point for nausea is called pericardium 6 and is located about 2 inches above the inner side of your wrist between the two tendons found there. Another point, kidney 27, is located just under your collarbone and about two thumb widths away from your breast bone. You can also try stimulating kidney 6, which is located on the inside of your ankle, one thumb width below your inner ankle bone.
Method
In order for acupressure to provide effective relief, you must follow certain guidelines for performing it properly. Use deep, probing pressure at each point using your fingertip or thumb, a knuckle or the eraser end of a pencil. After locating the point, introduce deep pressure until you feel a twinge. Apply continuous pressure for 15 to 30 seconds, then repeat on the opposite side of your body. As you stimulate the point you may start to feel a numbing sensation and experience relief of your symptoms. Sit back and relax as you stimulate the points and repeat as necessary as your symptoms return.
Safety
Consult with your health-care provider prior to using acupressure and do not rely on acupressure treatment as a replacement for emergency medical care. Prior to using acupressure for pregnancy nausea, ensure that your symptoms are not the result of a more serious illness or condition. Avoid using acupressure within 20 minutes of a large meal, heavy exercise or bath. Certain acupressure points are not safe to use during pregnancy; therefore, consult with a licensed Chinese medicine practitioner to be certain you are only using points that are considered safe.
Find a Practitioner
Prior to using acupressure during pregnancy, consult with a licensed Chinese medical practitioner to ensure you are utilizing proper technique and only stimulating points that are considered safe during pregnancy. Ask your doctor, a friend or relative for a qualified practitioner in your area. You can also contact your local health department or the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine -- NCCAOM -- to find a licensed or certified professional in your local area.
