Meta-analysis of the effects of acupressure during labor

Objective: To determine the efficacy of acupressure for the relief of labor pain in low risk, at term deliveries, as well as other effects on the course of labor. Method: An exhaustive bibliographic research was carried out, followed by a careful selection of studies based on their methodological quality, and subsequent meta-analysis. Results: Acupressure is effective for relieving labor pain when compared to a placebo group (PG) (-1.13; -1.66, -0.60; 95% CI) and a control group (CG) (-0.85; -1.13, -0.57; 95% CI) and that its effects last up to two hours after application of the technique (PG: -1.30; -1.92, -0.67; 95% CI; CG: -1.36; -2.02, -0.70; 95% CI). It is also effective in reducing the duration of labor (PG: -110.59; -182.21, -38.96; 95% CI; CG: -189.73; -221.90, -157.56; 95% CI), both first (PG: -39.04; -55.01, -23.06; 95% CI; CG: -127.20; -219.05, -35.35; 95% CI) and second stages (PG: -9.31; -15.87, -2,75; 95% CI; CG: not assessed). Furthermore, it is associated with fewer caesarean sections (PG: 0.34; 0.15, 0.76; 95% CI; CG: 0.35; 0.16, 0.79; 95% CI); and it has no neonatal affectation (assessed through the Apgar score). Conclusion: The application of this technique during childbirth is recommended, as well as its divulgation during pregnancy (AU)