What pressure points trigger labor?
Several studies show that acupressure can trigger labor when carried out through specific points. Still, the scientific evidence for this needs to be improved, and more studies and research are required to back this fact. On the brighter side, acupressure has no side effects; hence, there is nothing to worry about. Getting advice from your OB-GYN/ Doctor would be wise for your pregnancy.
Pressure Points to Trigger Labor:
Sometimes, a doctor or midwife suggests that pregnant women use acupressure to induce labor. Various points are pressing, which will help feel relieved and trigger labor. Practitioners believe pressing specific acupressure points can enhance blood flow to the uterus, even impacting hormonal responses.
As a result, contractions can be sped up, eventually triggering labor.
Here are some acupressure points that are said to affect triggering labor; take a look:
SP6:
It is also known as “Spleen 6,” and it is located on the back of the calf, just about 2 inches above the inner lower ankle bone. Pressing this point can be effective for labor pain and can also increase labor time by triggering labor.
You can apply pressure with your index finger on this point for a few seconds. Wait for a moment, and then repeat the procedure.
PC8:
This point is also called “Labor Palace” or “Pericardium 8” and is called by this name for a reason. It can effectively trigger labor contractions and help pregnant women trigger labor. The location of this point is relatively easy, as it is in the middle of your palm.
Apply gentle pressure on this acupressure point and repeat it after a few seconds.
GB21:
GB21 – “Gallbladder 21” is said to induce labor and make contractions less painful. It is located in the middle of the shoulder muscle, right above the collarbone.
For this point to work, you need to pinch and then massage in the downward direction. You can apply gentle pressure, wait for a second, and then start it again.
LI4:
The Large Intestine 4 – LI4 is believed to stimulate the contractions. It can be very effective during the first stage of labor and will surely help pregnant women to trigger the labor. It is between the thumb and index finger, just below the pointer finger knuckle.
You can massage this point gently through the thumb of the opposite hand. After a minute, wait for a few seconds and then repeat it.
Conclusion:
Once you start getting contractions after 40 weeks of your pregnancy, you can use these acupressure points to relieve labor pain and trigger labor. This should be done after consulting with your doctor or midwife. Trying to pressure these acupressure points before 40 weeks is not advised. Moreover, if you are relatively new to acupressure, consulting with your healthcare provider before trying it is a must.