When to Use, and Not Use, Acupressure During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting time for expectant mothers and often leads to an enjoyable experience during labor and delivery and in raising healthy children. For most women, the onset of aches and pains during labor are quite common and are often challenging to manage with pregnancy-safe medications.

If you are suffering with persistent aches and pains in the joints or muscles, it is important to speak with your doctor about alternative forms of care, including the use of acupressure. As a form of alternative care that utilizes pressure on specific points of the body, coupled with heat and cold packs, many pregnant women find they can naturally overcome their pain and improve their overall healthcare.

With acupressure during pregnancy, there are many advantages to both you and your baby. Because acupressure improves your energy, reduces feelings of nausea, reduces fatigue, and even alleviates tension, not only will your pain be alleviated but you will often find that your infant experiences better health and fetal development.

Of course, there are situations and times when acupressure should be modified, or not used at all, during pregnancy. For example, if you are an expectant mom with any type of bone break or complication with an internal organ, acupressure to that area should not be administered. In addition, any part of your body that may have infection or for which there is a swelling presence should not be given an acupressure treatment. And, of course, your abdomen should never be subjected to acupressure care.

Overall, however, many pregnant women find that acupressure is safe and effective at alleviating the aches and pains of pregnancy. If you are considering this form of treatment, be sure to get approval from your obstetrician first. Once approved, then always utilize the services of an acupressure specialists who is not only well versed in their craft but also very familiar with the needs of pregnant women. In the long term, there are health benefits for you but you can ultimately learn how to apply the same acupressure treatment to your own body after your baby has arrived.

Sources: Powering Through Pregnancy, by Jane Simons