Pregnancy takes a toll on a woman's body and spirit. By the time they reach their due date, pregnant women are exhausted; they have suffered with swollen feet, shortness of breath, and fatigue. As their due date near, many women are ready to give birth and are looking for ways to speed up the process. There are many remedies, methods, and even medicines that can be used to induce labor in women who are at or past their due dates. Acupressure is esteemed method that does not come with any side effects or risks.

Acupressure is an all natural method that may be used to induce labor in women who have passed their due dates, to reduce the pain associated with labor, or to help to speed up a labor that is progressing slowly.

Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, only acupressure uses the pressure of the fingers and thumbs as opposed to using needles. One of the best features of acupressure is that it is very effective at inducing labor in pregnant women, as well as reducing the pain often associated with labor.

Acupressure points such as "Adjoining Valley", "Shoulder Well" and "Big and High" are associated with using Acupressure for labor.

In Adjoining Valley, the points used in acupressure will stimulate the large intestine meridian. First, locate the part of the hand between the thumb and forefinger. In the area known as webbing, press firmly. The correct area will feel tender. Apply pressure to the Adjoining Valley point is useful technique to get relief from labor pains too.

The Shoulder Well is another great acupressure point to use during labor. Apply pressure to the highest point on the shoulder muscle. To locate the area, use four fingers and measure from the joint of your shoulder, moving in towards your neck. This area will be very tender, and is also effective for managing pain during labor.

The Big and High point is located directly above the back of your heel. It's located between the Achilles' Tendon and your ankle. Apply pressure directly to this spot for the most benefits.

Be assured, labor will progress using these natural methods of inducing, but you will not have the risk of side effects or negative reactions. However, it is important to only use acupressure for inducing labor when you are due or past due and not during your earlier months of pregnancy.