Specific acupressure points

Acupressure points and how they work

How, and when is acupressure used?

Acupressure is a branch of Chinese medicine that has increasingly become an accepted treatment in Western culture. It is based on the belief that a flow of energy, an essential life force, called 'qi', pronounced "chi" runs through the body along 12 main channels (or 'meridians'), corresponding to the body's main organs.

Acupressure, when used in labour, is aimed at supporting the physical and emotional well being of the woman, while under the natural stress of her labour. Various acupressure points can be used, bearing in mind that women are uniquely different, and will respond individually. Some women will react more effectively to certain points than others, achieving various outcomes. Many woman will try each one (when appropriate), during prelabour (or labour) to find the points the points that best suit them, and their needs at the time.

You may wish to read more about acupressure in About natural therapies.

How, and when is acupressure used?

Acupressure is believed to be a simple, non-invasive technique that woman can use in the early phases of their prelabour and labour. Sometimes the partner (or support person) can stimulate various points during the progression of the entire labour. If you are using acupressure points for a long time, remember to give your thumbs a 'breather', by resting and rotating them. (Many hours of 'thumb pressure' can be tiring!)

If you wish to perform acupressure during labour, check with your caregiver (or practitioner). The woman's partner or support person will need to be able to locate specific points. Ideally this will be learnt, and practised, before the labour, WITHOUT APPLYING PRESSURE. Some points can stimulate contractions and they are not recommended during the pregnancy.