Acupressure For Labor
September 11th, 2011
Acupressure uses pressure applied to various pressure points on the body to improve health and energy and heal disease. The ancient Chinese beleived energy or “Chi” flowed through channels in the body and this energy supported good health. The Chinese believed health was maintained by the life force they called Chi which surged all the way through the body. The Chinese discerned that tension appeared to accumulate in various components of the body. This tension the Chinese thought blocked the flow of Chi and caused pain and dysfunction in the body. The basic premise of acupressure is to relieve the pressure in these points on the body eases pain and increases health.
Acupuncture was the use of fine needles on these same acu-points to increase energy flow. It is theorized the Chinese may have discovered acupuncture by observing the effect of arrow wounds on the body. Over time they developed an entire system of treatment.In more modern time electro-acupressure has developed in which the use of electrical current is such as is used in a TENS unit is applied to the needles to invigorate the pressure points. Acupressure tools to assist in applying pressure are also commonly used.
Acupressure and acupuncture is a healing system which has been used for thousands of years for many conditions including the assistance of childbirth and labor. Used as a means to help labor, specially trained acupuncturists work with the docotr during labour to assit the process.
The LI4 acu-point is often used to induce or strengthen labour. LI4 is located between the index finger and thumb and is easiest found by bringing thumb and index finger together. The muscle on the hand will bulge slightly near where the thumb joins the hand and right above the web between finger and thumb. This acupressure point is used for all sorts of conditions one of which can be to strengthen a lagging labor. Pressure is applied in a firm circular motion. Do not stimulate this point unless your doctor says you are ready to deliver.
On the “tail bone” or sacrum area, many acu-points exist which can ease labour pain. This area is on the lower back right above the crease of the buttocks and shaped like a “V.” Pressure can be applied by a partner to help in relief of labour pain. Finger tips, knuckles, a tennis ball or an acupressure tool can be used. Use just as much pressure as the mother feels is helpful applying it in a circular motion. Back pain unrelated to labour can be also helped by applying firm pressure to these points.
Located on the outside of the small toe on each foot right beside the toe nail is the pressure point B67. You can stimulate this point with gentle pressure or rubbing. This acu-point is used to stimulate fetal movement and help correct breech presentations. Four fingers width above the ankle in the inner side of each leg is another acu-point used to strengthen labour.
It is important to speak with your health care professional before using any alternative treatment while pregnant. If you docotr approves these acu-points can be used throughout the day of labour to decrease pain and strenghen contractions.
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