Inducing Labor: Acupressure to Induce Labor

Inducing labor can be a safer option for the mother and the baby, if there are chances of complications in a late delivery. Some of the conditions that may require the labor induction are infection in the uterus (chorioamnionitis), passing due date, deterioration of placenta, preeclampsia, no contraction even after amniotic water has been broken, diabetes, hypertension and other medical conditions. In the United States, it is estimated that one out of every five labors are induced in order to fasten the delivery.

Ways to Induce Labor

Inducing labor is generally not practiced for 2 weeks after the due date. Nevertheless, the gynecologist may recommend for labor induction if pregnancy continues even after two weeks past the due date and if the mother or the baby is at a risk to complications. Some of the therapeutic ways to induce labor are medications, hormones to stimulate contraction, artificial rupture of membranes and breaking water (amniotomy). In addition, there are natural methods to induce labor such as acupressure, walk, nipple stimulation, spicy foods, black cohosh, evening primrose oil, castor oil and other medicinal herbs.

Acupressure for Inducing Labor

Studies reveal that acupressure, if performed correctly, is a safe and effective technique to induce labor. It helps in natural ripening and dilation of the cervix, descending of the baby and frequent contractions. Acupressure is mostly preferred for inducing labor as there are no side-effects, which are present in case of medication induced pressure. Another advantage of this technique is that acupressure can be performed at home by the pregnant woman on her own or with the help of other family members.

Pressure Points to Induce Labor

While performing acupressure for the labor induction, certain sensitive pressure points are stimulated by using thumb and fingers, which in turn helps to induce labor. It is to be noted that acupressure techniques should be performed by pressing and rubbing in circular motions. One should stop applying pressure as soon as contraction starts; it can be continued again as contraction subsides. Reduce the applied pressure if it is painful for the pregnant woman. The pressure points that help in inducing labor are as follows:

Hoku Spot
Hoku spot is located at the webbing between the thumb and the forefinger. Massaging this pressure point induces labor and/or contractions by affecting a portion of large intestine that lies adjacent to the uterus.

Spleen 6
Spleen 6 can be located by tracing from the inside of the ankle, at least 4 fingers width above the ankle bone. Massaging the pressure spot for about 1-2 minutes helps in inducing labor.

Bladder 32
Another pressure point for inducing labor is bladder 32, which is situated about 1 cm above the buttocks, in the dimple between buttocks and spine. This pressure point is slightly indented in comparison to the surrounding area. Rub the bladder 32 spot for 1-2 minutes to induce labor.

BL60
BL60 pressure spot is located between the ankle bone and the Achilles tendon. Applying pressure to BL60 pressure point induces labor by helping the baby to descend in the pelvis portion.

These acupressure techniques are believed to be helpful in reducing the labor pain. Overall, acupressure increases the chances of having normal vaginal childbirth. However, one of the major drawbacks of acupressure induced labor techniques is the uncertainty of the result. Though acupressure is proven to be effective in most cases, the outcome may be negative if the body is not ready.