The Power of Acupressure for Labor: A Natural Way to Ease Pain and Support Birth

In the U.S., infant mortality rates rank 57th out of 195 countries. We are not even in the top ten—a concerning reality, especially given the increasing medicalization of pregnancy and the rising rates of C-section deliveries. To help address this growing issue, I’ve decided to teach classes on acupressure for labor, aiming to raise awareness and provide practical tools within our community. By educating our community and training birth attendants in these methods, we can take a meaningful step toward more holistic, effective, and accessible birth support.

The first class will be at 2 p.m. on March 6, 2025 at Wilder Health, 3690 Grant Dr. Suite D. Please RSVP to (775) 525-0574.

What is Acupressure?

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves applying firm pressure to specific points on the body to promote balance and healing. Unlike acupuncture, which uses needles, acupressure relies on the hands, thumbs, or tools to stimulate key points.

How Acupressure Benefits Labor

Several studies have explored the impact of acupressure on labor pain, duration, and overall birth experience. Here are some key benefits:

1. Pain Relief

Labor pain is one of the most challenging aspects of childbirth, and acupressure provides a drug-free way to manage it. A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis found that acupressure significantly reduced labor pain intensity, making it a valuable complementary technique ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32811182/)).

Partners can learn powerful acupressure techniques to minimize birth pain, anxiety and maximize the quality of the birth experience for the mother.

Key points for pain relief:

·      LI4 (Hegu): Located between the thumb and index finger, this point is known for reducing pain and promoting uterine contractions.

·      SP6 (Sanyinjiao): Found above the inner ankle, this point helps with pain relief and encourages cervical dilation and labor progression.

·      BL 32 (Ciliao):  In the second knotch down on the sacrum. It is a great anesthetiser to utilize during a natural birth.

2. Shortening Labor Duration

Acupressure may help speed up labor by encouraging cervical dilation and effective contractions. A 2017 randomized controlled trial found that stimulating SP6 significantly reduced the duration of the first and second stages of labor ([Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14767058.2017.1304536)).

Key points for labor progression:

·      BL60 (Kunlun): Located between the Achilles tendon and the ankle bone, this point has a descending effect, helping the baby move down into the birth canal.

·      GB21 (Jianjing): Found on the shoulder, this point can encourage contractions and help with the baby’s descent.

3. Reducing Anxiety and Stress

Childbirth can be emotionally overwhelming, and acupressure has been shown to reduce stress hormones, promoting relaxation. A 2018 study found that acupressure lowered anxiety levels and improved the overall birth experience for laboring individuals ([Cochrane Review](https://www.cochrane.org/CD009232/PREG_acupuncture-or-acupressure-relieving-pain-during-labour)).

Key points for relaxation:

·      PC6 (Neiguan): Located on the inner wrist, this point helps with nausea and calms the nervous system.

·      KI 1: (Yong quan): Located in a hole produces by curling the toes towards the sole of the foot. It is directly below the ball of the foot.

Happy babies come into this world with natural birthing techniques.

How to Use Acupressure During Labor:

·      Apply firm, steady pressure for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then release.

·      Use circular massage on key points to enhance the effect.

·      Combine with breathing techniques to help manage contractions.

·      Ask your partner, an acupuncturist, massage therapist, midwife or doula to assist with point stimulation during active labor.

Final Thoughts:

Acupuncture and acupressure are widely and effectively used during pregnancy and labor in Scandinavia, Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Iran, and Turkey. However, in the U.S., access remains limited, with some hospitals only allowing patients to “bring their own acupuncturist.” This makes it all the more critical for midwives, doulas, and partners to learn simple yet effective acupressure techniques.

While research continues to explore its full potential, many parents and birth professionals in the U.S. already utilize acupressure because of its effectiveness. There are many websites where you can look up the above mentioned points and teach yourself their locations and uses. If you’re having a natural birth and would like more in-depth training consult with an acupuncture practitioner, trained midwife, or doula to learn the best techniques for your body and birth plan.