| Having a baby is a joyful experience. Many of us | | | | him or her. |
| mothers-to-be, however, are apprehensive of the | | | | You can avoid the need for an epidural and the |
| delivery process. | | | | risks connected with one, by using labor |
| Yes, there is some stress and pain involved in | | | | acupressure. Acupressure is a holistic method that |
| delivery. | | | | targets the same acupoints used in acupuncture. |
| Over the years medical science has come up with | | | | The difference is that, in acupressure fingers are |
| methods to reduce labor pain. Unfortunately the | | | | used to put pressure on the specific pressure |
| side effects of these methods can be unwelcome. | | | | points instead of piercing the skin with needles. |
| Anesthetics used during labor leave your baby | | | | Acupressure is a completely safe method, without |
| and you in a drugged state, during and after | | | | any side effects. It is impossible to over-stimulate |
| childbirth. An epidural anesthetic is known to | | | | the body while administering acupressure, because |
| increase the chances of having a Cesarean | | | | the body naturally regulates and accepts only the |
| operation, or the need for the vacuum and | | | | required stimulation. Labor acupressure is also a |
| forceps. Statistics show that half the deliveries | | | | very simple, 'thumbs-on' method. It can be |
| with an epidural results in resorting to such medical | | | | administered by anyone receiving basic instruction |
| interventions. | | | | in its application. This means that you don't need |
| A Cesarean delivery is sometimes necessary in | | | | any great skill to administer acupressure. Because |
| order to save the life of the baby or the mother. | | | | the method is so safe, and incredibly effective, |
| A Cesarean, however, is a major operation | | | | even the World Health Organization recommends |
| involving severe risks. These risks include higher | | | | it for pain relief. |
| maternal mortality rates compared with normal | | | | Giving birth to a baby is a unique and wonderful |
| births, risks of blood clots and infections, not to | | | | experience. With the help of acupressure, both |
| speak of a longer recovery time. Additionally, if | | | | you and your partner can actively participate in it... |
| you deliver by Cesarean, you might find it difficult | | | | And you can soon have your baby with you, alert |
| to breast-feed your baby. This could lead to less | | | | and not doped by unnecessary medication, ready |
| closer bonding between your tiny tot and you. It | | | | to breastfeed and bond with you and the family. |
| can also result in reduced immunity to illnesses for | | | | A wonderful memory for your later years! |