Acupressure Combs for Labour

Acupressure is a natural way to help manage pain during labor, and using an acupressure comb is one way to apply pressure to certain points on the body.

Here, Lily from Yuula Comb outlines how it works:

How the acupressure come works

The comb works via a mixture of the gate control theory and accupressure. The gate control theory says that the brain cannot concentrate on more than one sensation at the same time. The idea is that you redirect the sensations (whether that be contractions, after pains, a cannula, epidural being sited) by squeezing the comb and blocking pain signals to the brain.

When you squeeze the comb you apply pressure to the Lao gong acupressure point in the hand. This acupressure point has many benefits including easing anxiety and stimulating endorphins, increasing feelings of control and literally dulling the other sensations felt at the same time.

You find the Lao gong acupressure point by making a fist with your hand. Where your middle and ring finger meet your palm is where the comb needs to go. When you make contact with the correct place you can often feel a heat sensation after a few seconds. You would then intermittently squeeze the comb, regularly changing hands so you don’t get sore.It is recommended that you start off with a lighter grip and as the contractions build you gradually increase your grip into the peak.

Find out more and see Yuula’s helpful videos on their Instagram page here.

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