Acupuncture Points for Labor Induction
SP 6 (Sanyinjiao) is the most effective acupuncture point for inducing labor, with recent evidence showing it can significantly increase admission for spontaneous onset of labor when used prior to scheduled induction. 1
Key Acupuncture Points for Labor Induction
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to stimulate the onset of labor. The following points have been identified as most effective:
SP 6 (Sanyinjiao) - Located on the inner side of the calf, 3 cun above the medial malleolus, at the intersection of 3 meridians (spleen, liver, and kidney). This is one of the most frequently used points for labor induction. 2, 1
LI 4 (Hegu) - Located between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones in a depression like a valley. This point is commonly used in combination with SP 6 for labor induction. 2
BL 32 (Ciliao) - Located at the second posterior sacral foramen, this point is effective for stimulating uterine contractions. 2
BL 60 (Kunlun) - Located next to the lateral malleolus, this point is often used in combination with other points to enhance labor induction. 2
GV 20 (Baihui) - Located at the vertex where three Foot-yang meridians, the liver meridian, and the Governor Vessel meet. This point helps regulate overall energy flow during labor. 2
Mechanisms of Action
Acupuncture may induce labor through several biological mechanisms:
Cervical ripening - Acupuncture has been shown to improve cervical readiness for labor by increasing cervical maturity as measured by Bishop's score. 3
Hormonal regulation - Acupuncture may influence the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, potentially affecting hormones involved in labor initiation. 2
Uterine stimulation - Electroacupuncture at specific points has been shown to induce uterine contractions. 4
Clinical Evidence
Recent high-quality evidence supports the effectiveness of acupuncture for labor induction:
A 2024 randomized controlled trial (ACUPUNT study) found that acupuncture administered for a maximum of 4 days prior to scheduled induction significantly increased the proportion of women admitted for spontaneous onset of labor or premature rupture of membranes (65.1% in acupuncture group vs. 39.6% in control group). 1
Women receiving acupuncture were admitted 1.25 days before their scheduled induction date compared to 0.67 days for the control group. 1
The median time from recruitment to hospitalization was shorter in the acupuncture group (4.48 days vs. 5.33 days). 1
Application Methods
Different techniques can be used when applying acupuncture for labor induction:
Manual acupuncture - Traditional insertion of fine needles at specific points. 2
Electroacupuncture - Addition of mild electrical current to the inserted needles, which may enhance effectiveness. Studies suggest electroacupuncture may be more effective than manual acupuncture. 3
Acupressure - Application of pressure to acupuncture points using fingers or thumbs. While easier to apply, evidence suggests it may be less effective than needle acupuncture for labor induction. 3, 5
Clinical Considerations and Cautions
When using acupuncture for labor induction, consider the following:
Acupuncture appears to be most effective when administered close to term (within days of the due date or scheduled induction). 1
Multiple sessions may be more effective than a single treatment. 1
Acupuncture has shown better results for labor induction at term compared to midterm abortion attempts. 4
Safety profile appears good with no reported significant adverse effects on maternal or neonatal outcomes in recent studies. 3, 1
Acupuncture may be more effective for cervical ripening and labor onset than for shortening the duration of induced labor. 3, 5
Practical Application Protocol
Based on the most recent evidence, an effective protocol would include:
Begin acupuncture treatment approximately 4 days before scheduled induction date. 1
Focus primarily on SP 6 and LI 4 points, with additional points selected based on individual presentation. 2, 1
Administer daily sessions if possible, for up to 4 consecutive days. 1
Consider electroacupuncture for potentially enhanced effectiveness. 3