The delivery date is fast approaching and you are so excited about it, or are you nervous? It’s OK to be nervous, but do not be worried or anxious. Majority of the deliveries occur without any complications. By this time you must be all set to go into the delivery room and get the baby of yours in your hands. One concern you may be having in your mind about delivery is the labor induction. There are many natural ways to induce labor and you may not require the administration of drugs to induce labor. Acupressure is one of the natural methods that can help you in this ordeal.

Wondering what’s acupressure and how can it help? Acupressure is an age old Chinese medicine technique which has been used across many centuries. The basic belief of this technique is that our body has many specific points which when stimulated can bring about the desired change in an organ placed deep inside the body. Hard to believe isn’t it? Believe it, because many researchers have tested these techniques and have found it to be beneficial in numerous conditions. Now you must be wondering how acupressure can help you. There are many specific spots in your body that can be stimulated to induce labor contractions and also decrease the severity of pain you are experiencing during delivery. Some of the major ones are listed below. You can perform this technique by yourself or you can ask your partner to do it for you.

Adjoining Valley/Hoku

This is the portion in your hand called webbing, present between your thumb and the fore finger. Apply firm pressure in this area to stimulate the intestinal region. It can also be done in the labor room. It stimulates contraction as well as relieves pain.

Spleen 6

This point is about 4 fingers above the ankle bone. Rub this area firmly to induce contractions. It would be easier for your partner to perform this.

Big and High

Applying pressure at the point between your ankle bone and the Achilles tendon (should be about 4 fingers above the heel bone) can help easier descent of your baby into the pelvis.

Bladder 32

This needs your partner’s help. The point is located in between the lower end of the back bone and the dimple of your buttocks. Ask your partner to apply firm pressure to induce labor.

These are 4 simple acupressure steps to induce labor naturally. But, words of caution before you try it, although it has been proven to be beneficial in others. Consult with your midwife or healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of using acupressure in your case to induce labor naturally. If they give the green signal, then go ahead, have your baby naturally!