Acupressure and Child Birth Labor

Whether you are planning on being a natural birth mom or you'll be turning to medication for pain relief during your labor and delivery, it's often helpful if you find some ways to naturally relieve any pain and discomfort you are having. Those methods might come in handy when you haven't yet left for the hospital and you're trying to let your labor progress at home. One technique that is not at all new, but is more frequently being recognized as a useful tool for pain management especially during labor is acupressure. Acupressure is an ancient Chinese technique that is based off of some of the ideas of acupuncture however instead of using needles in the skin, pressure and massage is physically placed upon the skin using the fingers. The Chinese culture believes that certain spots on the body house energy centers and acupressure opens up those congested centers- relieving pain. Applying pressure to these spots can also increase the production of endorphins in the body which are great for pain relief. Just think, it's very similar to the act of rubbing your temples when you have a headache. Often times it will relieve the tension you are feeling and you'll be cured of your pain without even having to take an aspirin.

One technique that is used in easing labor pain and progressing labor is the Spleen 6 position. This technique should only be used when in active labor, as it can induce premature labor. Four finger widths up from the ankle bone is a spot located on the inside that is behind the tibia. Using your thumb to press down hard on this spot for 20 seconds at a time and repeating three to four times in a short period of time is useful in progressing active labor as well as getting through contractions.

The Hoku is a spot that is located on the top of the hand in the webbing that connects your thumb and index finger. If you press on the angle that is underneath the bone that connects your index finger you can use this technique for pain management as well as labor progression. Again, use this technique with caution.

One very effective technique involves the spot halfway between the dimple in the buttocks and the spine. There should be a small depression where this spot is located, and simple pressure to the spot is a very effective form of pain relief.

You may think finding some of these specific spots sounds impossible however if you're applying acupressure yourself you'll be able to tell whether or not it's working, and if somebody else is applying the techniques simple feedback will allow proper placement.

Many acupressure classes are now given all over the country as a preparation for giving birth. No longer are Lamaze classes the only natural way to manage your pain during labor. Even if you opt for pain medication, you are not guaranteed a pain free and pleasant labor. You may still need some other way to calm yourself down to get through those contractions. Acupressure is a great option that should seriously be considered. Make sure however that you do your research and make sure you are applying appropriate acupressure techniques for your situation. There are actually certain techniques that could slow your labor or be harmful if applied of if used too frequently.