Caution with Spleen 6 and Large Intestine 4

You’ve probably noticed that I caution against stimulating the acupressure point Spleen 6 and Large Intestine 4 during pregnancy and/or if you think you’re pregnant during the final week of your cycle.

To elaborate, in our acupuncture training we are taught to avoid these points during pregnancy because they can possibly cause uterine contractions. Interestingly, these points are also excellent for relaxing the uterus and provide wonderful relief when you experiencing menstrual cramps.

While we caution against using them if/when you’re pregnant, the general consensus is that they can't cause miscarriage very easily. If the pregnancy is stable, not far along and the points are indicated, they can generally be used with no problem.

That being said, it’s better to be safe than sorry and therefore I advise women to avoid them when pregnant and during the implantation phase.

But I do encourage you to use them during the rest of your cycle because they are such important fertility points. In fact, they can help prevent ectopic pregnancies, relieve cramping, increase the uterine lining, balance hormones and support ovulation.

Follow these guidelines for when to avoid using the points Spleen 6 and Large Intestine 4:

When can implantation occur?

Implantation occurs between 7-10 days after fertilization. When you get a positive OPK reading, you will ovulate (release the egg) within 12-48 hours thereafter. Once you egg has been released, fertilization can occur. 7-12 days later, the fertilized embryo implants. On average, this occurs around 9 days past fertilization.

Therefore I advise you to stop using Spleen 6 and Large Intestine 4 once you’re 7 days past the first signs of ovulation.

Signs of ovulation include:

• Fertile Cervical Mucus (clear stretchy egg white consistency)
• A positive Ovulation Predictor Kit (OPK) reading
• Ovulatory cramping/twinges
• A temperature rise in your Basal Body Temperature (BBT) chart

Using the Phase 3 - Ovulation Acupressure Protocol or any protocol with these points:

• Use Phase 3 acupressure from the first signs of ovulation until 7 days past ovulation (for a total of 7 days).
• If you’re not sure which day you ovulated, do not use Spleen 6 or Large Intestine 4 more than six days after the first signs of ovulation just to be safe.

Benefits of Spleen 6 and Large Intestine 4

About Spleen 6

Spleen 6 is one of the most important, if not THE most important, points for gynecological issues and fertility support. This point directly circulates to the reproductive organs. It relaxes the uterus. 3 different acu-pathways, or ‘meridians’ as we call them, cross at this point. These include the Kidney, Liver and Spleen meridians.

These 3 energetic pathways are all extremely important for supporting fertility. They improve the digestion, build healthy blood cells, balance hormones and support reproductive function.

About Large Intestine 4

Besides relieving headaches, warding off colds and opening the sinuses, this point also improves digestion, boosts energy, relaxes the uterus, circulates to the reproductive organs and balance the flow of qi between the upper and lower body.