subject: Maternity Acupressure - A Few Warnings About Using Acupressure to Induce Labor [print this page] Maternity Acupressure - A Few Warnings About Using Acupressure to Induce Labor
But it would be very irresponsible of me to not also write an article to warn of some dangers with acupressure and pregnancy. Very often I see and hear people giving others advice on this issue that is incorrect and can actually be dangerous. Here is a list of myths I have heard over the years that you should NOT fall into.
Myth 1: Acupressure will not work until your body is ready to give birth.
The truth: This is partially true. But what isn't explained in this statement is your body starts preparing for labor long before it is safe for you to give birth. Professionals advise staying away from pressure points around your hands, feet and abdomen anytime after your first trimester for this very reason. Well-informed massage therapists and even salon workers are careful not to stimulate these areas accidentally with foot and back massages, as well. This isn't meant to strike fear in your heart with the thought that you can accidentally bump one of these points and spur premature labor because normally it takes more than a bump or poke by accident. It is simply to inform you that you should be careful not to intentionally "activate" these points before you know for certain it is safe for you to give birth.
Myth 2: Acupressure doesn't start working until a day or so later.
The truth: In most cases, signs of early labor begin about 1-4 hours after the treatment. Normally birth takes place within the following 48 hours, but signs for early labor start much more quickly.
Myth 3: You can perform all acupressure treatment yourself.
The truth: If you can still reach your ankles and other areas, then this is technically true. Technically in that you CAN preform acupressure on yourself, but it is advised that you have help. The father, a friend, a family member- anyone can assist. The reason it is a good idea to have someone help is not simply to reach all the points, but also to be around to help when labor does start. This is especially useful if labor begins much more quickly than you are prepared for.
Myth 4: It is safe to perform acupressure at any point late in your third trimester.
The truth: No, no, and no! I was a bit startled when I heard someone saying this, and even more so to find out it has been written all over online. Please do NOT attempt acupressure before you've been told an induction is safe by your physician. The only other time it is safe to start treatment is if you are already beginning labor and want to help things move along more quickly.
Just be sure all is well and safe for you and your baby. Preferably, it should all be cleared by your doctor before doing anything. Most physicians are used to getting questions about naturally inducing labor in all sorts of ways. If your doctor doesn't know about acupressure to induce labor, it is a good idea to seek a second opinion. Acupressure is the third most popular way to induce labor, and almost all doctors should know about it.
Chrissy Dean is a natural health enthusiast and freelance writer published all over the web to help people live happier healthier lives naturally.
Get your info straight from an actual doctor. Watch free videos on maternity acupressure with Dr. Mark Bernsen, Doctor of Oriental Medicine.Click here
