Acupressure Technique for Pregnant Woman

Acupressure is a commonly used form of massage that has its origins in China. It is quite similar to the science of acupuncture, but is non-intrusive, without the use of needles to pierce the skin. It involves a distinct pressure of the fingers and thumbs applied to certain pressure points, called meridians, located in the body. This is thought to allow the release of energy for the purpose of healing and relaxation. There is no scientific evidence of the existence of this energy, or meridians, or of the efficacy of acupressure. In many cases, studies have shown acupressure to be useless, while others have been inconclusive. However, some techniques in acupressure have been used as methods of effective relief from stress, anxiety, and have also been used to obtain relief from some illnesses, including disorders related to metabolism, digestion, inflammation and disorders of the nervous system.

Nausea, during the first trimester of pregnancy, gives the mother to be a feeling of total discomfort, and acupressure sometimes helps to reduce the nauseous feeling experienced during the initial stages of pregnancy. Helping to relieve back pain and the effects of morning sickness during pregnancy are two well sought after uses of acupressure. However, it is important for one to know the correct method of applying acupressure to the correct pressure points, thus avoiding premature induction of labor, which may be caused by wrong techniques of acupressure applied to the wrong pressure points. For this reason, it is not advisable to perform acupressure treatment on yourself when pregnant – visit a trained acupressure specialist instead.

Acupressure also prepares the mother and the unborn child for the process of birth. There are said to be over six hundred points where acupressure can be applied to restore the continuous flow of energy through the body, giving relief during labor. Making use of the pressure points on the hand, where the fingers join the palm, allows the release of endorphins into the body. Endorphins are natural painkillers produced by the body, and provide relief from back pain and during contractions. An easy method of applying pressure on these joints is by taking hold of a comb with the teeth placed on the points of pressure. A strong application of pressure on the cavity formed in the arch of the feet relaxes the body during the second stage of labor. Acupressure techniques are also used to induce labor at times, making childbirth a relatively easy process. Acupressure is also used to strengthen the intensity of the contractions, while keeping the mother calm and relaxed throughout the process of child birth.