
Speaker: Loredana Zordan
Facilitator: Margaret Adongo
Induction of labour is increasing worldwide , and acupressure with its holistic approach to care offers a potential opportunity to reduce the medicalisation of childbirth. Practising acupressure would allow midwives to provide better care to women, enabling them to experience a safer and a more natural childbirth .Acupressure is an ancient Chinese technique based on the principle of acupuncture which involves the use of finger pressure (without the needle) on acupuncture points, situated on the meridians. The acupressure points most commonly used for induction of labour have a very strong effect on blood flow to the uterus ,promoting cervical dilatation, increasing the release of prostaglandin and oxytocin facilitate the production of endorphins, helping the mother to relax, promoting physical and emotional wellbeing.
Acupressure for induction of labour should be an option available to women in childbirth as it would allow them to regain some control of their birth experience ,as well as facilitating a more natural and less medicalized childbirth.
Acupressure is a non-invasive technique that can be easily applied by a birthing partner and/or midwives, promoting birthing partner involvement. It is considered comfortable, safe and non-painful, potentially reducing the need for pharmacological induction methods. Acupressure can offer increased choice and control and is argued to increase the chances of achieving a physiological birth. This approach may also reduce the cascade of intervention and reduce healthcare costs.

