5 Powerful Acupressure Points to Relieve Menstrual Cramps and Period Pain

Acupressure points for period pain will surely give relief at once. Read on to learn how to do this.

Menstrual cramps and period pain can be debilitating for many women. While medications can provide relief, acupressure is a natural and drug-free way to ease menstrual symptoms. Applying pressure to specific acupressure points on the body can help stimulate the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms and improve circulation to alleviate cramps, back pain, and other period-related discomfort.

Acupressure Technique

Acupressure is an old but viable technique that is derived from traditional Chinese medicine. In this technique, one exerts pressure on specific acupoints in the body to release muscular tension. It is believed that identifying and working on the pressure points for period cramps can really help in relieving the pain. Even doctors recommend self-acupressure to women, as it has positive results when it comes to relieving period pain.

How does acupressure help with period pain?

If you are wondering how to relieve period cramps, then acupressure is your answer. Vital energy circulates in your body. However, when there is blockage, then this flow is not complete, and that results in pain. Acupressure corrects this imbalance and helps to open this blockage.

Acupressure points for period pain

In this article, we’ll explore 5 of the most effective acupressure points for menstrual pain relief.

1. Spleen 6 (SP6)

One of the most commonly used acupressure points for menstrual cramps is Spleen 6, also known as Sanyinjiao. This point is located about 4 fingers above the inner ankle bone on the lower leg. Applying firm pressure to SP6 is believed to regulate the flow of qi (energy) and blood, easing menstrual cramps and discomfort.

 Benefits

Generally, Sanyinjiao is a powerful acupressure point for women’s health. It’s the intersection point of the spleen, kidney, and liver organs and meridian channels, fundamental to promoting women’s health. Therefore, this acupoint is commonly used for treating dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, prolapse of the uterus, and metrorrhagia. 

A study on the impact of SP-6 acupressure on pain and menstrual distress in young women with dysmenorrhea further proved its immediate pain-relieving effect. Moreover, its application for three consecutive months found that SP-6 is effective in relieving both the pain and menstrual distress levels resulting from period cramps. 

Other benefits of SP-6 include symptom management of conditions such as:

•  Spleen and Stomach deficiency, abdominal distention, and diarrhea
•  Bleeding disorders and uterine bleeding
•  Insomnia, headache, and dizziness
•  Enuresis, anuria, edema, and dysuria. 

2. Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Known as the “Great Eliminator,” Large Intestine 4 is an acupressure point that can have a powerful effect on reducing period pain. This point is located on the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger. Massaging LI4 is thought to stimulate the release of endorphins and improve circulation to alleviate cramps.

Benefits

Although Hegu is mainly used for treating headaches, this acupoint provides several therapeutic benefits. As it directly influences the circulation of blood and Qi, this point can promote smooth muscle contraction, ease menstrual pain, and promote labor (therefore, we don’t advise activating this point during pregnancy). Other benefits of LI-4 include:

•  Toothaches
•  Swelling of the pharynx and aphonia
•  Hemiplegia, finger spasms, and pain in the arm
•  Aversion to cold, fever, hidrosis, and anhidrosis
• Gastric pain, constipation, diarrhea, dysentery, and abdominal pain. 

3. Liver 3 (LV3)

The Liver 3 acupressure point, or Taichong, is situated between the big toe and the second toe. Applying pressure to this point is believed to regulate the flow of qi and blood, making it effective for relieving menstrual cramps, lower back pain, and bloating associated with the menstrual cycle.

Tai Chong is considered a key point for regulating the menstrual cycle and is used to alleviate a range of menstrual problems, including cramping, headache, nausea, and bloating.

To stimulate Tai Chong, find the point on your foot and apply firm pressure with your thumb for about one minute. You can also use a small ball or a roller to apply pressure.

It is recommended to perform acupressure on Tai Chong every day during the menstrual cycle, and to avoid applying pressure on this point during pregnancy.

4. Conception Vessel 4 (CV4)

Also called Guanyuan, the Conception Vessel 4 acupressure point is located about 3 fingers below the navel. Stimulating this point is thought to tonify the uterus and regulate menstrual flow, providing relief for cramps, heavy bleeding, and other period symptoms.

5. Kidney 3 (KD3)

The Kidney 3 acupressure point, or Taixi, is situated in the depression behind the inner ankle bone. Massaging this point is believed to nourish the kidneys and regulate the menstrual cycle, which can help alleviate cramps, backache, and irregular periods.

How to apply Acupressure step by step for Menstrual Pain?

1. Find the right acupressure points: Commonly used acupressure points for menstrual pain include SP6 (Sanyinjiao), located on the inner side of the calf, LI4 (He Gu) located between the thumb and index finger, and ST36 (Zusanli), located four finger widths below the knee.
   
2. Prepare yourself: Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down and remove any tight clothing that may be constricting the area you plan to work on.
   
3. Apply firm pressure: Use your thumb, fingers, or a small ball or roller to apply firm pressure to the selected acupressure point. Hold the pressure for one to two minutes or until you feel a noticeable improvement in your symptoms.
   
4. Repeat as needed: Repeat the process on the same or different acupressure points as needed. You can perform acupressure on yourself several times a day to help manage menstrual pain.
   
5. Relax: After applying acupressure, take a few deep breaths and relax your body. Try to stay still for a few minutes to allow the body to fully absorb the benefits of the acupressure.

Conclusion:

Incorporating acupressure into your self-care routine can be a simple and effective way to find natural relief from menstrual cramps and other period-related discomforts. By targeting these 5 key acupressure points for period pain, you can help regulate your menstrual flow, reduce pain and inflammation, and restore balance to your body. Give these techniques a try the next time you experience period pain.