Which Acupressure Points are Useful during Pregnancy Massage Therapy?

There are several acupressure points that can be used during pregnancy to relieve stress, promote relaxation and alleviate some of the discomforts of pregnancy. However, there are also areas that should be avoided before the baby is due, as they may promote contractions. The following areas can be safely used throughout pregnancy:

The palm of the hand - a light hand massage can be relaxing and may be done at any point during pregnancy. To relieve discomfort associated with pregnancy, you can apply gentle pressure to the palm of the hand. To locate the exact position, ask the pregnant mother to close her hand. Just below where her fingers rest on the palm of her hand is the correct position to apply gentle pressure. Applying pressure here can cause the body to release endorphins, the body's natural painkillers that are released by the brain. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this may be painful rather than pleasurable.

The foot - have you ever noticed that when your feet hurt, your whole body hurts? Reflexology focuses on specific acupressure points on the foot that are believed to correspond to different areas of the body. To relieve stress and tension during pregnancy, apply pressure to the area just below the ball on the sole of the foot, just where the arch begins. By applying gentle to moderate pressure and stroking upwards towards the toes, stress and tension melt away. Anyone who has ever experienced a foot massage can testify to the feeling of well-being that a foot massage can bring. Pregnant women will revel in the relaxing sensations engendered by a foot massage.

Lower back - pregnancy produces back discomfort in most pregnant women, so partners will want to concentrate on this area. The right area for acupressure may vary slightly from woman to woman. Most women will appreciate firm pressure. This pressure can be applied with the palm of the hand or even the elbow. As a couple, you may need to experiment to find the area of maximum relief. For many women, this area is located between the spine and the small dimple adjacent to the spine at the top of the buttock.