Acupressure Points To Support Early Pregnancy

Here are some acupressure points, or acupoints, that are commonly used for addressing pregnancy-
related issues that are safe to use in the first trimester:

 P6 (Nei Guan): Located on the inner forearm, about two-and-a-half finger widths from the wrist
crease, this point is believed to relieve morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting during
pregnancy. Pressure point P6 is also known as the “Inner Gate” or “Inner Pass” and can also help
with anxiety, stress, and wrist pain.
 BL32 (Ciliao): Located in the lower back, about two finger widths to the side of the spine at the
level of the second lumbar vertebra, midway between the spin and the dimple of the buttocks,
BL32, also known as Bladder 32, is often used for alleviating lower back pain and discomfort
during pregnancy.
 GB21 (Jian Jing): Situated on the shoulder, halfway between the base of the neck and the edge
of the shoulder, this point is thought to help with neck and shoulder tension, as well as
headaches. GB21 (Gallbladder 21) is also known as the “Shoulder Well” point.
 KD3 (Tai Xi): Found on the inner ankle, between the ankle bone and the Achilles tendon, KD3 is
believed to help with overall relaxation and balance, which can be beneficial during pregnancy.
KD3 (Kidney 3) helps stimulate the pericardium which improves blood flow and circulation of Qi
(energy).
 LV3 (Tai Chong): Located on the top of the foot, in the depression between the big toe and the
second toe’s tendons, LV3 is thought to help with emotional balance and relieve stress.
 CV6 (Qi Hai): This point is situated about two finger widths below the navel and is believed to
help with digestive issues and abdominal discomfort during pregnancy.
 UB60 (Kunlun): On the back of the hand, this point is in the depression between the knuckles of
the little and ring fingers, close to the palm. UB60 is thought to help relieve lower back pain and
promote overall balance.
 PC8 (Lao Gong): Situated on the palm side of the hand, in the center of the palm, just below the
middle finger. PC8 is sometimes used to alleviate heart-related discomfort and emotional
tension.
 SP6 (Sanyinjiao): This point is situated on the inside of the leg, about four finger widths above
the ankle. It is believed to help with various pregnancy discomforts, including nausea, insomnia,
and lower back pain.
 HT7 (Shen Men): Located on the wrist, in line with the pinky finger, on the palm side. HT7 is
believed to improve circulation to the heart and promote relaxation during pregnancy.

It’s crucial to apply gentle and controlled, but firm pressure to these acupressure points, especially
during pregnancy. Always consult with a qualified acupressure practitioner or a healthcare provider
before using acupressure as a complementary therapy during pregnancy. Acupressure should be used
alongside conventional prenatal care, not as a replacement for it. Additionally, some acupressure points
are contraindicated during pregnancy, so it’s essential to seek professional guidance.
Which Acupressure Points Induce Labor?

The following pressure points should be used with caution if you are nearing your due date or in latent
active labor or first-stage labor. These points not only help with the induction of labour but also can be
used to manage pain during labor.

LI4 (He Gu): Found on the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger, LI4, also known as
Large Intestine 4, is thought to help with pain relief, headaches, and inducing labor when nearing full
term (consult a healthcare provider before using this point for labor induction as it may hasten uterine
contractions and cause changes in the cervix, such as cervical dilation).

LV3 (Taichong): Located on the top of the foot, in the depression between the big toe and the second
toe’s tendons. It’s associated with the Liver meridian and is thought to promote the smooth flow of
energy, which may indirectly influence uterine contractions.

GV20 (Baihui): Positioned at the top of the head, in the center, directly above the ears’ highest point. It
may help promote relaxation and balance energy.
What are the Effects of Acupressure during Pregnancy?

Acupressure during the early trimesters of pregnancy can have several potential effects and benefits
when applied safely and appropriately.

Nausea Relief: Acupressure can help alleviate morning sickness and nausea, which are common early
pregnancy symptoms. The P6 (Nei Guan) point on the inner forearm is often used for this purpose.

Stress Reduction: Acupressure can promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety during the early
trimester when emotional fluctuations and anxiety may be common.

Balancing Energy: Acupressure is believed to balance the body’s energy flow (Qi) and can help with
overall well-being and vitality during pregnancy.

Enhanced Sleep: Some pregnant individuals experience difficulty sleeping during the early trimester.
Acupressure can be used to promote better sleep patterns.

Improved Digestion: Acupressure points can help alleviate digestive issues, such as bloating, indigestion,
and constipation, which can occur during pregnancy.

Emotional Balance: Pregnancy can bring about emotional changes, and acupressure may help stabilize
mood swings and promote a sense of emotional well-being.

Relief from Aches and Pains: Acupressure can be used to address mild aches and pains that may arise
during the early trimester, such as lower back discomfort.

Boosting Immune Function: Strengthening the immune system through acupressure may help pregnant
individuals stay healthier during pregnancy.

Are Acupuncture Points The Same As Acupressure Points?

Acupressure points and acupuncture points are closely related, but they are not exactly the same. Both
acupressure and acupuncture are part of TCM and are based on the concept of meridians and energy
flow in the body, but acupuncture is performed by a licensed acupuncturist.

Acupuncture can offer several potential benefits for pregnant women when administered by a qualified
and experienced acupuncturist. It is generally considered safe during pregnancy when performed by a
skilled practitioner. Some of the benefits of acupuncture for pregnant women include:

Morning Sickness Relief: Acupuncture may help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with morning
sickness, providing relief during the early stages of pregnancy.

Pain Management: Acupuncture can help manage various types of pregnancy-related pain, including
lower back pain, sciatica, pelvic pain, and joint discomfort.
Stress Reduction: Pregnancy can be emotionally challenging, and acupuncture may promote relaxation
and reduce stress and anxiety.

Hormonal Balance: Acupuncture is believed to help regulate hormonal imbalances, potentially

Labor Preparation: Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help prepare the body for labor by
promoting cervical ripening and reducing the need for medical induction.

Breech Presentation Correction: Acupuncture techniques, such as the use of moxibustion, may be
employed to encourage the fetus to turn from a breech position to a head-down position.

Fatigue and Energy Enhancement: Acupuncture may help combat pregnancy-related fatigue by
improving energy levels and overall vitality.

Swelling and Edema Reduction: Acupuncture can help reduce mild swelling (edema) in the feet and
ankles that sometimes occurs during pregnancy.

Sleep Improvement: Some pregnant women experience difficulty sleeping, and acupuncture may
promote better sleep patterns.

Blood Pressure Regulation: Acupuncture can be used to help regulate blood pressure, which is crucial for
maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

Immune System Support: Strengthening the immune system through acupuncture may help pregnant
women stay healthier during pregnancy.

Digestive Comfort: Acupuncture may alleviate digestive issues, such as constipation, heartburn, and
indigestion, which can occur during pregnancy.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider and seek out an acupuncturist with
experience in prenatal care before undergoing acupuncture during pregnancy. The acupuncturist should
be aware of your specific pregnancy-related concerns and tailor the treatment accordingly. Additionally,
make sure the acupuncturist follows safety guidelines and uses sterile, single-use needles to reduce any
potential risks.