Quick answer: Acupressure means applying firm pressure to specific points on the body to encourage comfort and relaxation. In labour, gripping a comb so its teeth press into the points across your palm is one of the simplest ways to use the idea, combining pressure with a calming focus. Some acupressure points are traditionally used to encourage labour, so use acupressure during labour, and ideally with guidance from your midwife or a qualified practitioner.
Acupressure has been used for centuries to support comfort, and it is increasingly popular as a drug-free option in birth. Here is how it works in labour and how a simple comb puts it in the palm of your hand.
What is acupressure?
Acupressure applies firm, steady pressure to specific points, the same points used in acupuncture, but with fingers, thumbs or a tool instead of needles. The aim is to ease tension, encourage relaxation and support the body's own coping responses. It is non-invasive, drug-free and something a birth partner can help with.
How acupressure helps in labour
During labour, acupressure is mostly used to help you relax and cope with contractions. Firm pressure creates a strong, competing sensation that can dial down how intense a contraction feels, similar to how massage and TENS work, and the steady rhythm gives you something to focus on. Many hospitals and midwives are happy to support acupressure as part of a comfort plan.
How the Acu-Comb uses acupressure
The Elle TENS Acu-Comb is a comb shaped to sit across your palm. When you grip it during a contraction, the teeth press into the points along the base of your fingers and palm. It is a simple, self-directed way to apply acupressure without needing to remember where each point is, and the act of gripping adds a helpful focus. For the step-by-step, see does holding a comb during labour help.
Common acupressure points used in labour
Birth practitioners often work with points on the hand, lower back and sacrum to support comfort during contractions. Because some of these points are traditionally associated with encouraging labour, it is best to use them once labour has started, and to learn the specific points from your midwife, a doula or a qualified acupressure practitioner rather than self-treating in pregnancy. The palm-based pressure of a comb is a gentle, general way to get started.
Frequently asked questions
Does acupressure work for labour pain?
Many people find acupressure helps them relax and cope with contractions. Evidence is mixed but it is low risk and drug-free, which makes it easy to try as part of a wider comfort plan.
Is acupressure safe during pregnancy?
Some points are traditionally used to encourage labour, so acupressure is best used during labour, and ideally with guidance from your midwife or a qualified practitioner.
How is a comb acupressure?
Gripping a comb presses its teeth into the pressure points across your palm, a simple, self-directed way to apply acupressure during a contraction.
Can my partner do acupressure for me?
Yes. A birth partner can apply pressure to the lower back and sacrum, which many find soothing. Ask your midwife to show you helpful spots.
Can I combine acupressure with other pain relief?
Yes. It works well alongside TENS, massage, water, movement and breathing.
Sources
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby, Pain relief during labour. Cochrane review, Acupuncture and acupressure for pain management in labour. Australian hospital patient resources on acupressure in labour.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your midwife about pain relief options for your labour.
Acupressure in the palm of your hand
The Elle TENS Acu-Comb makes palm acupressure simple, drug-free and portable for your birth.
