Nausea can turn an ordinary day into a long one, whether it comes with early pregnancy, travel, stress or a sensitive stomach. Many people look for a gentle, drug-free option, and acupressure for nausea is one of the most researched and easiest to try. It uses firm pressure on specific points, the same points used in acupuncture, to help settle the stomach.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, nausea is usually described as stomach Qi moving upward instead of downward. Acupressure aims to calm that upward movement, support digestion and relax the nervous system. Below are the points used most often, how to find them, and how they fit into care for morning sickness.
Does Acupressure for Nausea Work?
The point with the most research behind it is PC6, on the inner wrist. Studies on nausea after surgery and during chemotherapy have found that stimulating PC6 can reduce nausea for many people, and wristbands that press on this point are widely used. Results for morning sickness are more mixed: some women find clear relief, while others notice only a small change.
Because acupressure is low risk and easy to do at home, it is a reasonable first step for mild nausea. For stronger or longer-lasting symptoms, regular acupuncture sessions with a licensed practitioner usually give a more consistent effect.
The Best Acupressure Points for Nausea
1. PC6 (Neiguan): the Main Nausea Point
Where to find it: turn your palm up and place three finger-widths below the wrist crease. PC6 sits in the center of the forearm, between the two tendons you can feel there.
How to use it: press firmly with your thumb for one to two minutes, using small circles, then switch to the other wrist. This is the point acupressure wristbands are designed to press.
2. ST36 (Zusanli): Supports Digestion
Where to find it: four finger-widths below the bottom of the kneecap, one finger-width toward the outside of the shin bone.
How to use it: press for one to two minutes on each leg. ST36 is one of the most important points for the stomach, and it is often combined with PC6 when nausea comes with low energy or a weak appetite.
3. SP4 (Gongsun): Calms the Stomach
Where to find it: on the inside of the foot, in the hollow just behind and below the base of the big toe bone.
How to use it: gentle, steady pressure for about a minute on each foot. In Chinese Medicine, SP4 is traditionally paired with PC6 for nausea and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Acupressure for Morning Sickness: Pressure Points for Nausea During Pregnancy
Morning sickness is one of the most common reasons women try acupressure in the first trimester. PC6 is the main point used, and many women wear acupressure bands during the day and press the point by hand when a wave of nausea starts. Eating small, warm meals, sipping ginger tea and resting when possible all support the effect.
Points to avoid in pregnancy: some points, including LI4 on the hand and SP6 above the inner ankle, are traditionally avoided during pregnancy because they are used to prepare the body for labor. You can read more about them in our guide to acupuncture to induce labor. If you are pregnant, stick to PC6 and ST36 unless your practitioner advises otherwise.
When nausea is strong, lasts beyond the first trimester or makes it hard to keep food or fluids down, acupuncture sessions can offer more support. This is a regular part of pregnancy acupuncture in NYC at Sage Wellness, alongside the trimester-by-trimester care described in acupuncture and pregnancy.
How to Use Acupressure Safely
- Use firm but comfortable pressure. It should feel strong, not painful.
- Press each point for one to two minutes, several times a day or whenever nausea starts.
- Avoid pressing on broken skin, bruises or swollen areas.
- Acupressure supports medical care but does not replace it. Seek medical advice for severe vomiting, signs of dehydration, or nausea with pain or fever.
When to See an Acupuncturist
If home acupressure only helps a little, a licensed acupuncturist can look at the pattern behind your nausea, such as digestive weakness, stress or hormonal changes, and build a plan around it. Treatment may combine acupuncture with dietary advice and, outside of pregnancy, Chinese herbal medicine. Many people notice a difference within a few sessions. When nausea is linked to bloating, reflux or a sensitive stomach, it is often treated as part of digestive health acupuncture in NYC.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupressure for Nausea
Where is the pressure point for nausea?
The main pressure point for nausea is PC6 (Neiguan), three finger-widths below the wrist crease on the inner forearm, between the two tendons.
How long does acupressure take to work for nausea?
Some people feel relief within a few minutes of pressing PC6. For ongoing nausea, using the point several times a day usually works better than a single session.
Is acupressure safe for morning sickness?
Acupressure on PC6 is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Avoid points used for labor, such as LI4 and SP6, and talk to your provider if nausea is severe.
Do acupressure wristbands work?
Wristbands press on PC6 and help many people with travel and pregnancy nausea. They work best when placed exactly on the point and combined with pressing it by hand when nausea gets stronger.