There are several acupressure points that are believed to be helpful in labor. For each of the points, either the mother or someone assisting her should use their forefinger and thumb to apply pressure gently, but firmly, on specific points. The pressure should be applied slowly in a circular motion. If the pressure is causing pain at a specific point, it is probably too much. For measurements such as “finger width” that are based off of body size, it is important to go off of the size of the mother, not the assistant. If done correctly, using acupressure to induce labor is totally natural and safe.

One spot that is believed to be helpful is the hoku spot, which is located on the top of the hand in the area between your index finger and thumb. Another area, called spleen, is located above the ankle on the inside. Also close to the ankle is the BL60 point, which is just between the ankle bone and the Achilles tendon.

Once you’ve used acupressure to induce labor, you can continue using these same techniques to ease delivery when you are at the hospital. Unless the doctor deems another treatment necessary, they will honor your request for a more natural method of easing labor, even through the use of acupressure. Overall, this is a much more natural way to induce labor and ease the birthing process.