Nausea is one of the most common and least talked about symptoms following a Caesarean birth.
Whether it occurs immediately after surgery, during the first few days of recovery or when you're adjusting to pain medication, nausea can make an already challenging time feel even more overwhelming.
While it's important to follow the advice of your healthcare team and take any prescribed medications as directed, there are also gentle, non-invasive strategies that may help. One of the most well-researched is acupressure on the P6 (Neiguan) point.
At Tugun Osteopathy, we love empowering women with simple techniques they can use to support their recovery and feel more comfortable after birth.
Why Do You Feel Nauseous After a Caesarean?
There are many reasons why nausea can occur after a Caesarean birth, including:
Spinal or epidural anaesthesia
Opioid pain medication
Hormonal changes
Changes in blood pressure
An empty stomach followed by eating again
Fatigue and physical stress following surgery
For most women, nausea settles within a few hours or days, but it can make bonding with your baby, eating, drinking and moving around much more difficult.
What Is the P6 Acupressure Point?
The P6 (Neiguan) point is located on the inside of your forearm and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to help relieve nausea.
Modern research has also shown that stimulating this point may help reduce nausea and vomiting associated with surgery, pregnancy and certain medications.
Many hospitals even use wristbands that apply constant pressure to this point during and after surgery.
How to Find the P6 Point
Finding the point is simple:
Turn one hand so your palm is facing upwards.
Place the first three fingers of your opposite hand across your wrist crease.
Just below your third finger, locate the space between the two prominent tendons running down the centre of your forearm.
This is the P6 (Neiguan) point.
The point is located on both arms.
How to Use Acupressure
Using your thumb or finger:
Apply firm but comfortable pressure to the point.
Massage in small circles or maintain steady pressure.
Continue for one to three minutes.
Repeat on the opposite wrist.
Use as needed when feelings of nausea arise.
The pressure should feel comfortable and relaxing rather than painful.
Some women find relief almost immediately, while others notice benefits after several minutes of stimulation.
What Does the Research Say?
Among complementary therapies, stimulation of the P6 point is one of the most extensively researched techniques for nausea.
Studies have found that acupressure or acupuncture at this point may reduce the severity of postoperative nausea and vomiting, making it a simple, low-risk strategy that can be used alongside standard medical care.
While it won't eliminate nausea for everyone, many women find it to be a helpful addition to their recovery toolkit.
Why Managing Nausea Matters
Reducing nausea isn't just about feeling better.
When you're more comfortable, it becomes easier to:
Stay hydrated
Eat nourishing meals
Take pain relief as prescribed
Move around safely
Deep breathe
Begin gentle walking
Focus on feeding and bonding with your baby
These small steps all contribute to a smoother Caesarean recovery.
A Holistic Approach to Caesarean Recovery
At Tugun Osteopathy, we understand that recovery after a Caesarean birth involves much more than healing the incision.
Our approach focuses on supporting the whole person through:
Gentle movement and mobility
Breathing and diaphragm exercises
Lymphatic support
Scar education and mobilisation
Core and pelvic floor recovery
Pain management strategies
Practical tools to help you feel more comfortable throughout your healing journey
When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
While mild nausea is common after a Caesarean birth, you should contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
Persistent or worsening vomiting
Inability to keep fluids down
Severe abdominal pain
Fever or signs of infection
Dizziness or fainting
Concerns about your incision or overall recovery
Acupressure is intended to complement, not replace appropriate medical care.
A Simple Technique You Can Use Anywhere
One of the best things about the P6 acupressure point is that it's free, gentle and available whenever you need it. Whether you're still in hospital or settling in at home with your newborn, spending just a few minutes applying pressure to this point may help ease nausea and allow you to focus on what matters most recovering and enjoying those first precious moments with your baby.
If you’re after more acupuncture support we highly recommend all of the ladies at Nuwa .