Effectiveness of Acupressure at Neiguan (P6) Point on Nausea and Vomiting During Early Pregnancy

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the effectiveness of acupressure at Neiguan Pericardium 6 (P6) point using Psi-Bands on severity of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting, comparing the results with those of a placebo group.

Methodology: This randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 40 pregnant females experiencing mild to moderate levels of nausea and vomiting before 20 weeks of gestation were allocated into two groups equally (n=20). Pregnant females were recruited between April and June 2024 from Islamabad Diagnostic Centre (IDC), and Executive Clinics of IDC in Islamabad, Pakistan. In acupressure group, pressure was exerted on P6 point using a Psi-Band knob/button for 3 days, while in placebo group, the Psi-Band was worn without applying pressure to P6 point. Frequency and severity of nausea and vomiting were documented twice daily for 1 week, with intervention commencing on 4th day. ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U test, and Fisher's exact tests were employed for data analysis.

Results: The mean women age was 26.3±5.3 years. After three days of intervention, acupressure group showed a substantial decrease in nausea duration, frequency, and severity, as well as in vomiting frequency, compared to placebo group (p < 0.05). After intervention, acupressure and placebo groups showed a substantial difference in frequency and severity of nausea (p < 0.05), but insignificant difference was seen in duration of nausea or frequency of vomiting (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Applying acupressure at P6 point using a wristband for at least 3 days seems to effectively relieve pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. This effect may partially result from placebo effect.