Applying targeted pressure to particular spots on the body is called acupressure. This technique might help bring on labor by influencing the nervous system and surrounding muscles. However, consult your healthcare provider before attempting acupressure.
Due dates are only approximations. It’s normal for labor to begin one to two weeks before or after your estimated delivery date, and clinicians typically expect this variability.
Still, being post-term can leave you feeling drained or worried. People who go past their due date may try various home remedies to encourage the baby to arrive naturally.
Many expecting parents opt for complementary approaches to trigger labor when they prefer to avoid medical induction. One commonly used option is acupressure.
In acupuncture sessions, trained practitioners insert very thin needles into certain body points. Acupressure uses manual pressure on those same points instead of needles.
Below are five acupressure points on the body that are thought to help initiate labor.
1. Spleen 6 point
The spleen 6 point (SP6) is regarded as one of the most versatile and frequently used points. It’s applied for a variety of issues, including helping to induce labor.
Called Sanyinjiao — meaning three yin intersection — SP6 sits above the ankle on the inner side of the lower leg, just behind the shinbone. It’s roughly four finger-widths above the inner ankle bone.
What to do: Press firmly on the point with your index finger for several seconds. Pause for a minute, then repeat.
2. Bladder 60 point
Located a few inches below SP6 is bladder 60 (BL60). This spot is also referred to as Kunlun, named after a mountain range in Asia.
The Kunlun point lies on the foot in the hollow between the lateral malleolus (outer ankle) and the Achilles tendon. It’s used to promote labor, ease labor-related pain, and relieve blockages.
What to do: Use your thumb to apply gentle pressure to BL60 and knead the area for several minutes.
3. Pericardium 8 point
Known as Laogong, or “labor palace,” the pericardium 8 (PC8) point is thought to be helpful in encouraging labor to begin.
It’s situated in the center of the palm. You can locate it by making a fist and noticing where the tip of your middle finger presses into your palm.
What to do: Apply light pressure with the thumb of your opposite hand and massage the spot for a few seconds.
4. Large intestine 4 point
The large intestine 4 point (LI4) is the most commonly used acupressure point and is known as Hegu, which translates to “joining valley.”
It’s found on the back of the hand, deep in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. Similar to BL67, LI4 is believed to help trigger labor. It may also alleviate pain and boost immune function, among other therapeutic effects.
An older 2012 study reported that LI4 acupressure was linked to lower pain ratings in labor and shorter durations of the second stage and active labor.
What to do: Gently press and massage the point with your thumb for one minute, rest for one minute, then repeat.
5. Bladder 32 point
Bladder 32 (BL32), also called Ciliao — meaning “second crevice” — is located in the dimple near the top of the buttock. You can find it by tracing your fingers down the sacrum until you reach just above the intergluteal cleft.
This point is believed to stimulate contractions and assist with gynecological complaints.
Research indicates that acupressure on BL32 may lessen labor pain. In that study, BL32 performed slightly better than LI4 for pain reduction.
What to do: Press firmly on the area and massage inward toward the buttock. Repeat this for several minutes.
How effective is it?
Overall, experts say the evidence so far is encouraging but that additional research is needed.
Acupressure may boost uterine blood flow, alter hormonal activity, and stimulate contractions, so it’s important to try it only after discussing it with your clinician and ideally with a licensed acupuncturist’s guidance.
Takeaway
Acupressure could be a useful, drug-free way to help initiate labor.
Nevertheless, exercise caution and consult your doctor before beginning any new approach. Speak with your midwife or obstetrician to determine whether acupressure is appropriate for your particular situation.
You might also consider seeing a licensed acupuncturist who can accurately identify the correct acupressure points. Licensing requirements differ by state, but you can search online to locate a certified practitioner in your area.
Still waiting for labor to start? Explore other natural methods to encourage labor here.
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