Acupressure During Pregnancy

Many people are concerned about causing a miscarriage with acupressure by pressing the ‘wrong’ areas on a woman’s body. If only it were so simple for touch to stimulate labor or contractions to begin! Women would happily avoid all medically induced labors and abortions.

THere are a few very specific acupressure points in the lower leg, feet, hands and shoulders, that are generally contraindicated for acupressure or acupuncture during pregnancy, but they are not “magic buttons” that cause contractions when touched or massaged! Oh if only they were!

These points are often used during the last weeks of pregnancy, to help prepare the body for labor. They may be used to help encourage and induce labor to begin or progress more quickly. Remember though, that the baby has alot of input on when labor begins…and no matter what efforts a mother and companions may make, labor will not begin if it is not the right timing and if all other elements have not aligned for birth.

Check TouchForBirth.com for more resources about pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and touch.

Debunking Myths of the Dangers of Pregnancy Massage

Around the world touch has been used to improve and enhance a woman’s experience of her pregnancy and birth. Ongoing research supports the claims of psychological and physiological benefits of massage specifically during the perinatal cycle. Some cited benefits include: improved physiological function; improved posture and emotional wellbeing; musculoskeletal pain reduction; enhanced lactation and increased prolactin production; decreased intra-uterine stress; increased ability to nurture others.

While the benefits are many, myths of dangers still circulate,

Blood Clots and Massage During Pregnancy- For massage therapists

There are many inaccurate beliefs about perinatal massage, but there are also real and important precautions and contraindications during pregnancy, labor and the postpartum period. Massage therapists intending to work with this clientele need to cultivate an in-depth knowledge of the physiological changes during pregnancy and postpartum, with the skill to implement adaptations relative to minor risks, and the ability to recognize some symptoms of high-risk situations.

One primary concern