Self-Acupressure for Menstrual Pain

Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain) is so common, it is often accepted as a fact of life for uterus-havers. This is just not so! We do not exist to suffer. As debilitating as dysmenorrhea can be, we can bring ourselves immediate relief with our own hands and knowledge of just a few specific points on the body. Also included in the video below is my fresh ginger trick for period pain.

For some basics on acupressure, check out my first post in this series: http://bit.ly/2jgykKc

...and so we begin.

Here are more images and descriptions of the points mentioned in the video:

SPLEEN 6

Spleen 6 (also SP6, Sanyinjiao, Three Yin Intersection) is located four finger-widths above the middle inner ankle bone. For many people this is a very tender spot.

SP6 is commonly used for urological, pelvic disorders, insomnia, and menstrual cramps. SP6 should not be used in pregnancy because this point may induce labor.

KIDNEY 3

Kidney 3 (also KD3, KI3, Taixi, Great Ravine) is located between the achilles tendon on the back of the heel and the inner ankle bone.

KD3 "washes through stuck and sluggish places, cleansing and revitalizing at all levels" (Gumenick). It is often used for libido and fertility issues, night sweats, insomnia, dizziness, low back pain, and menstrual irregularity and pain (Yin deficiency patterns).

CONCEPTION VESSEL 6

Conception Vesel 6 (also CV6, Ren 6, Qi Hai, Sea of Qi, Sea of Energy) is located two finger-widths directly below the bellybutton. The finger pressure should always be applied gradually here.

Many people love this point for eliminating menstrual pain because of its ability to quickly mobilize Qi and blood in the area. "CV 6 is good for developing emotional stability, deepening spiritual awareness...relieves constipation and body aches... it strengthens all of your internal organs, and develops your healing energy reserves" (Gach). CV6 unwinds abdominal tension, so it is a useful point for freeing sexual energy and relieving uterine cramping during menstruation. During pregnancy be very gentle, and use the palm of your hand instead of fingertips (Gach).

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Firmly press or massage each point, breathing deeply, until your pain is reduced or eliminated. To balance the body and prevent future menstrual pain, make a habit of using these points throughout the month.

I would be so happy to answer any questions you have about these points, and to hear your experiences of them! As always, wishing you wellness & reconnection.

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An interesting Western study on Spleen 6:

"Effects of SP6 acupressure on pain and menstrual distress in young women with dysmenorrhea":

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20347835

Sources for this post:

http://www.acupressure.com/blog/index.php/acupressure-for-sexual-problems-relieving-constipation-gas-irritable-bowel-developing-energy-reserves-for-healing-yourself/

http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32624