The beliefs are changing in the Western countries, when it becomes necessary to induce labor; more often we are seeing the use of medications. Before the use of chemicals or synthetic hormones became prevalent, natural methods to induce labor were used. Acupressure techniques have been around for years. This method is proven safe and effective for inducing labor, unlike many medications that can cause a more painful labor and are risky for both the mother and child.

Acupressure is both natural and effective. It has been used for thousands of years and has not only made giving birth easier it helps remove much of the pain associated with childbirth. Using drugs or pharmaceuticals to induce labor is very common; however it has a high degree of risk. To avoid the risks and side effects that come with chemically induced labor, choosing a natural, safe method is a good alternative. Acupressure has been used for centuries and is safe, effective, and doesn't carry risky side effects.

In fact, many labor health care workers and professionals are recognizing the advantages that labor acupressure techniques offer and are encouraging women who are past their due dates to utilize the benefits of acupressure before agreeing to induce labor with pharmaceuticals.

Pitocin is the most commonly used drug to induce labor. Pitocin is the most popular medication used by physicians to induce labor. Oxytocin is the hormone in the body, Pitocin is the synthetic version of this hormone. Pitocin has many negative side effects and must be administered by a professional. One side effect of Pitocin is strong contractions, many women experience contractions that are extremely painful. And after Pitocin is administered, there's nothing one could do to lessen the amount affecting in your body.

Additionally, science has yet to determine the full impact that Pitocin has on the unborn child. Many studies also show that there is a link between the use of Pitocin as a labor induction remedy and an increased risk in Caesarean sections due to fetal distress.

With these risks and complications, many feel that it is preferable to induce labor with natural methods, such as with acupressure.

Acupressure is safe, gentle, and effective. It has no harmful side effects and does not harm the baby. The only possible effect that a woman may experience would be tenderness at the spot where the pressure was applied. Relaxation is one of the most important tools needed to begin labor, and acupressure helps to bring relaxation to the woman's body. Acupressure helps the cervix to ripen and dilate. By using different pressure points contractions are stimulated and come more often.

According to a recent study (Complement Ther. Med. 2005) women who participated in a control study group were given labor acupressure treatments after they were past their due dates and the results were compared with women whose acupressure points for labor were not treated. The findings showed that those who received labor acupressure point treatment had significantly higher results of their labor starting naturally than those who hadn't received any acupressure point treatments.

The claims that acupressure is an effective method to induce labor have been proven in many studies. Research shows that the use of acupressure during delivery not only induces labor but will help manage the pain of childbirth. Acupressure is a safe alternative to chemical inductions and is one of the best ways to induce labor naturally.