If you're looking for alternative ways to handle pain management during labor, you may want to consider acupressure. This is similar to acupuncture in the way that it works, but there are no needles. Instead, it all comes down to the utilization of pressure points that are either compressed or rubbed in order to help with specific ailments or issues.

For example, many people use the pressure point in the webbing between the thumb and first finger to control or eliminate nausea.

It's always best to talk to your doctor if you're pregnant and considering acupressure. You'll want to make sure you don't have any contraindications for using it. In some cases, there may be pressure points you don't want to use or other reasons to avoid acupressure. If you don't have any of those worries, you're free to practice the method yourself or find someone to help you. Depending on the specific pressure points you'll be using, it's generally better to have help.

You don't want to be focused on anything but having your baby during labor and delivery. Let someone else deal with the pressure points. Just make sure you have someone who's experienced in working with pregnant women, and who knows how to handle the confines of the room you'll be in during your labor. That's very important because you want to keep your stress levels as low as possible. Using acupressure is a good way to keep calm, and it also helps with some of the physical discomforts you may experience when you're pregnant.

As you go into labor, it's understandable for you to be stressed and even frightened. That's especially true if it's your first child. Having acupressure as a coping mechanism can be very beneficial in keeping your level of anxiety lower than it would otherwise be. By lowering your stress level, you'll have less pain. That will translate into a better birth experience and give you the opportunity to really connect with your body and your new baby. Giving birth can be a beautiful thing, and you want to be fully present for it.