Induction of labor is a medical intervention that essentially triggers a woman’s body to start the natural labor process. This can sometimes be recommended by medical professionals in situations where the safety of the mom or baby is at risk.

Some common reasons that a woman may be induced include 1-2 weeks beyond the suggested due date, premature rupture of membranes (water breaking early), gestational diabetes, preeclampsia (high blood pressure), infection, and not enough amniotic fluid surrounding the baby.

There are various ways to medically induce labor that can range from minimally invasive to a little more involved. These labor induction methods are typically performed in a hospital or birthing center as both mom and baby can be closely monitored and all services are readily available if need be. Common methods to medically induce labor include:

• Membrane sweep – sweeping a gloved finger over the covering of the amniotic sac, separating the sac from the cervix and lowering the uterine wall
• Rupture of amniotic sac – ‘breaking water’ – making a small opening in the amniotic sac
• Injection of medication into a vein – Pitocin, which is an artificial form of the hormone oxytocin, is injected via IV. This helps to stimulate uterine contractions, starting the laboring process.

Another lesser invasive way to potentially help with the induction of labor is acupressure.

Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been around for many years. It can be described as placing firm pressure at certain points throughout the body, depending on an individual’s symptoms or goals, to restore the body’s ‘qi’ or flow of energy. Listed below are different acupressure points that may help with labor induction:

• Spleen 6 – located about four finger widths above the inner ankle bone just behind the shin bone
• Bladder 60 – located on the outside of the foot, in the space between ankle bone and achilles tendon
• Pericardium 8 – located in the center of the palm
• Large Intestine 4 – located in the back of the hand, between webbing of thumb and pointer finger

These areas can be accessed by applying firm pressure with 1-2 fingers to the area and holding for a couple of minutes followed by a little massage.

Different studies have shown that acupressure can be helpful in relieving labor pains as well as potentially decreasing the second stage of labor, also known as the pushing stage. By accessing these different points, you might increase blood flow to the uterus, increase hormonal responses, and stimulate uterine contractions – ultimately inducing labor.

Because of this, it is always important to check with your provider prior to performing any of these acupressure points on yourself!

Unsure of where to start or experiencing any annoying aches/pains during pregnancy?

Apex Physical Therapy & Wellness Center has a great team of qualified pelvic health practitioners that would be more than happy to meet with you and get you feeling better for the duration of your pregnancy!