Labor is one of the most anticipated moments of a pregnant because it only signals that the little angel inside her womb is about to see the world. Some would-be moms fear the long and exhausting labor awaiting them; yet, they may try acupressure to induce labor which is rather easy and natural for her and her baby.
Acupressure to induce labor is also known as maternity or labor or pregnancy acupressure. It’s an ancient technique that aims for an easier and less painful childbirth minus the use of labor-inducing drugs.
Finger pressure is applied on specific body points to induce labor. It shares the principle of acupuncture minus the needles. Safe for the baby and mother as no pills, drugs, stimulants or needles are involved, it also helps strengthen contractions, achieve dilatation faster, promote comfort and relaxation, lessen nausea and vomiting, and help the baby descend for easier delivery.
Several pressure points are used in acupressure to induce labor. One is the webbing of the thumb and index finger called the hoku spot, which is rubbed for 30-60 seconds until contraction is felt. A 1-2 minute break is observed in between contractions. This point is used for pain relief during labor.
Second is the calf area located by placing four finger widths above the ankle bone. Application of pressure is resumed when the contraction stops.
At the foot is another pressure point between the Achilles tendon and ankle bone which helps the baby to descend during labor.
There is also an acupoint at the lower back one finger width above the crease of the buttocks. Another is found on either of the two shoulders which is said to be helpful in the milk letdown during breastfeeding if used.
Acupressure to induce labor can be used at homes upon safe instructions and is effective in providing normal and complications-free birth.
Two hours shorter than labor without acupressure, acupressure proves to be effective at the start of labor to achieve best results. However, it must be done only by the time the pregnant reaches term.
Other acupressure points are used if discomfort is experienced until pleasant and relaxing sensation is achieved in the new chosen point as the labor progresses. However, it must be considered that not all pressure points can work for everyone. And they are not used if it’s not yet safe to give birth.
Also, we must have in mind that not all labor go as planned and women’s responses to acupressure may differ from others, so acupressure may not work well for some. Despite this, medical interventions can still be employed in this case to assure safe labor and delivery for the pregnant and her baby.
Pressure points can be located during pregnancy as preparation for labor but they are not pressed so deeply that labor is inadvertently induced when it is still not due. So extra care is observe while doing this.
Acupressure to induce labor is indeed a good option for mothers who do not want pain-relieving and labor-inducing drug due to the potential side effects of these medications. The best thing about it is that this can be done not only by medical professionals, but also by the pregnant and her husband upon proper instructions and guidance. This turns labor into a unique couple experience with mutual involvement, indeed a good advantage of acupressure to induce labor.
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