Simple Acupressure Points to Support your Labour and Birth

Research shows that using certain Acupressure points during labour preparation and birth, can provide some pain relief. When used as part of a complimentary intervention, reduced the need for epidurals and caesarean sections (Smith CA et al 2011; Levett K et al, 2016).

As birth approaches, you start looking for ways that will make you feel more in control of your labour and birth. Using Acupressure Points is one of those gentle tools which you and your partner can learn and use.

Acupressure comes from the same family as acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses a steady, firm pressure on specific points of the body. These points can help with relaxation, easing tension, opening the cervix and helping baby to descend. They will support the natural rhythm of your labour. Of course, using these points is not a replacement for medical care, but can be used alongside your midwife’s or doctor’s guidance.

Labour and birth can be a journey, one which asks so much of us such as strength, surrender, instinct and trust. This is why, pulling your Acupressure Points out of your holistic Toolbox can help you to feel more grounded, more centred, and more in control of the birth.

Acupressure Points have been used for centuries to support labour flow, and can offer comfort through the surge of each contraction. They’re simple enough for your partners to learn, and they can also be used in the final weeks of pregnancy as well as during labour itself.

Below are some of the key Points I teach in my classes and programs;

Spleen 6 (SP6) - The Softening Point

Found on the inner lower leg, about four finger-widths above the tip of the inner ankle bone. SP6 is frequently used to support cervical ripening, contraction coordination, and overall relaxation.

During labour, a birth partner can apply sustained, moderate pressure for 30–60 seconds at a time, checking continually for comfort and feedback from the labouring person.

Large Intestine 4 (LI4) — For Contraction Support

Found in the webbing between the thumb and the index finger. It is one of the best-known acupressure points for labour. Many women find it helps them focus and ride the wave of their contractions with more ease. Applying firm pressure during contractions may help with labour pain relief and encourage stronger, more coordinated contractions. Avoid using this point during pregnancy due to its link with stimulating uterine activity. Reserved for end of pregnancy and active labour.

Bladder 32 (BL32) For Pelvic Comfort

Found in the sacral area of the lower back and roughly aligned with the dimples at the back of the pelvis.

Your partner should use firm, inward pressure using the thumbs or knuckles on Bladder 32 during each contraction. This will help to help ease intensity and pain, especially when mum is leaning forward, on her hands and knees, or leaning over her birth ball.

Gallbladder 21 (GB21) For “Letting Go”

Found at the highest point of the shoulders, midway between the base of the neck and the tip of the shoulders. This is the place where you love to be massaged ! Tense shoulders during labour can increase your perception of pain. So applying gentle but firm pressure here, and combining with long, slow exhales, can promote relaxation of the shoulders and your body. Only use this point at the end of pregnancy and during labour, as it is associated with uterine stimulation.

Pericardium 6 (PC6) To “Steady the Heart”

Found on the inner wrist, three finger‑widths below the crease. This point eases nausea, anxiety, and emotional intensity, soothing the heart space. It is safe to use during pregnancy also, to ease morning sickness and vomiting.

Use during early labour, during the transition or anytime emotions arise by applying light to medium pressure with your thumb.

Kidney 1 (KD1) For Calming and Grounding

Found on the sole of the foot, in the soft dip just below the ball of the foot. Also known as the Solar Plexus Reflexology point.

This Kidney 1 point is amazing for inducing calm and feelings of being grounded, Beautiful for moments of overwhelm. Using gentle circular pressure on the area , anytime during the labour and especially during the transition phase, between labour and birth..

Comb in Palm to Help with Labour Pains

Your hands hold a large network of nerves points so when you hold a comb in your palm and squeeze down, these network pathways get activated. The brain will then prioritise the signals received by your hand, over the signals received from your pelvis, tummy and back.

This is also a handy tool to use for other pain sensations in the body such as tooth ache,

🌹 A Final Word

Acupressure isn’t about “making” labour happen. It’s about supporting the ebb and flow of labour and birth and helping your body to soften, open, and move with more ease. It’s a way of saying to yourself:

I trust my body. I trust my baby. I trust this journey.

Take a look at my Winner Flow Course where I also talk about Acupressure Points.

Disclaimer:

The information shared here is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any kind. I am a Reflexologist, Soulful Doula, EFT Practitioner, Yoga Teacher, Womb Shaman, Fertile Body Method Practitioner, and Women’s Health Coach. All guidance provided here is offered to support your personal empowerment and self-awareness.

You are encouraged to tune into your own body wisdom—your body and womb space always know what is best for you. However, if you are experiencing specific health concerns or conditions, please seek the advice and care of a qualified medical or healthcare practitioner.

Always trust yourself and follow what feels right and true for you.