Acupressure during labour: How does it work?

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Your birth weapon - purchased from Bump,Babe and Beyond in Petone, Wellington or direct online from authored.

Childbirth introduces a unique spectrum of sensations, and acknowledging the inherent pain is a crucial aspect of the birthing process. While pain is an integral part of labour, there are various approaches to manage and navigate your own experience. It's important to recognise that pain during childbirth is not only physical but also involves emotional and psychological dimensions. Managing pain encompasses a holistic approach that extends beyond traditional medical interventions, including embracing supportive birthing environments, utilising relaxation techniques, and exploring alternative methods such as acupressure with a spikey massage ball. These methods aim to empower you in labour, providing a sense of control and actively involving you in your birthing journey. By understanding and addressing the multifaceted nature of pain, you can navigate childbirth with a personalised and comprehensive pain management strategy.

Traditional acupressure methods originate from ancient Chinese medicine, which has a history spanning thousands of years. Acupressure is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, which views the body as a network of energy pathways, or meridians, through which vital energy, or "qi," flows. The practice involves applying pressure to specific points along these meridians to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities, restore balance, and alleviate various ailments, including pain. Traditional acupressure shares its roots with acupuncture, another therapeutic method within Chinese medicine, but it involves manual pressure instead of needles. Over the centuries, traditional acupressure has evolved and integrated into various cultures, contributing to its widespread use as a complementary approach to promoting well-being and managing pain.

So what If I want to use acupressure but I am not very good at it?

I would suggest having someone expereienced teach you how to use acupressure points. However if this is not a option there is an awesome alternative or even addition to this method. That is using a spikey acupressure ball.

Acupressure with a spikey massage ball is effective based on the principles of the gateway theory of pain. According to this theory, the brain has a limited capacity to process sensory messages, and it can only fully attend to one stimulus at a time. When a spikey massage ball is used for acupressure, it floods the brain with additional sensory stimuli, creating a sensory overload that competes with the pain signals. This saturation of sensory information essentially serves as a diversion, preventing the brain from fully processing the sensations of pain. Furthermore, when gripped in your hands, the spikey massage ball triggers specific acupressure points, activating the body's natural healing responses. This dual action not only helps in distracting the brain from pain but also induces feelings of calm and relaxation, providing a holistic approach to pain relief and overall well-being.

How to use the spikey ball during labour

• Place the spikey ball inside of your palm

  Try to wrap as much of your hand around the ball as possible.

• Squeeze the ball

  Squeeze the ball with light pressure at first and then slowly squeeze harder.

• Hold the squeeze

  Hold this during your contraction, once the contraction has subsided you may release the ball. Repeat when contractions return.

• All fours pressure

  Try getting on all fours, when a contraction comes have the ball underneath your open palm and slowly press your body weight onto the ball. You can roll you hands in small circles or be still. Remember to always release as much tension as you can!

What about Shakti Mats? Are Shakti Mats useful for labour pain and birth?

Explore the benefits of Shakti Mats as a holistic approach to pain relief during labour and childbirth. Shakti Mats, with their unique acupressure points, provide a therapeutic surface that stimulates blood flow and promotes relaxation. When strategically used during labour, these mats can alleviate tension and discomfort, offering a natural and drug-free option for managing pain.

To harness the benefits of a Shakti mat during labour, start incorporating it into your routine in the lead-up to childbirth, especially if it's your first experience with this therapeutic tool. The most common way of using the shakti is laying on the mat. However I would also recommend standing, and sitting.

1. Always consult with your midwife or healthcare provider before integrating the Shakti mat into your routine.

2. Lie on the Shakti mat for short durations daily, use your breathing techniques to get the full benefits.When you first lay on the mat you may not like it, that is normal. Try to distrtact your thoughts and relax any tension in your muscles.

3. Gradually increasing the time you lay on your mat as you approach your due date. This practice aids in familiarising your body with the mat's acupressure spikes, ensuring optimal effectiveness during labour.

4. Beyond labor preparation, Shakti mats are versatile and beneficial for everyday health. Regular use promotes relaxation, reduces muscle tension, and enhances overall well-being, making it a valuable addition to your self-care routine both during and beyond pregnancy.

Shakti Mat official how-to videos that target specific areas.