Safe Ear Seed Points for Pregnancy: What Helps with Nausea, Labor Pain, and Postpartum Healing

Which Ear Points Help During Pregnancy, Labor, and Postpartum? A TCM-Based Guide with Insights from an Expert

Pregnancy brings profound physical and emotional changes, and many women look for gentle methods to stay comfortable and supported throughout this period. Ear seeds are one such method—non-invasive, easy to apply at home, and rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

While many people ask whether ear seeds can induce labor, it is important to understand what they can and cannot do. This guide clarifies their role during pregnancy, provides safe point suggestions from TCM therapist Ms. Mai (Japan), and explains when ear seeds may be helpful.

Ear Seeds During Pregnancy: What They Are and What They Do

Ear seeds stimulate specific auricular points believed to influence the body’s internal systems. During pregnancy, they are used mainly to support comfort, regulate emotions, and maintain hormonal balance—not to trigger contractions.

“Ear seeds are generally not promoted for facilitating labor or inducing contractions,” explains Ms. Mai.
“During sensitive periods like pregnancy, the focus should be on balance and gentle support—not force.”

Suggested Ear Points for Common Pregnancy-Related Symptoms

1. Morning Sickness and Nausea

These points help harmonize the stomach, soothe the liver, and calm the nervous system:

• Shenmen (36)*
• Sympathetic
• Stomach (7)
• Liver (14)

According to Ms. Mai, “These points help settle the stomach and ease the stress response that often accompanies nausea.”

*Please refer to our ear seeds chart for the location.

2. Supporting Breast Milk Production and Mastitis

These points help regulate hormones and support healthy lactation:

• Endocrine (57)
• Mammary Gland
• Kidney (12)

Ms. Mai notes, “Endocrine and Kidney points help regulate hormonal balance—a foundation for healthy milk production postpartum.”

3. High Blood Pressure Support

These points may help calm the mind and ease vascular tension:

• Shenmen (36)
• Subcortex (54)
• Blood Pressure Point

“Blood pressure changes are common in pregnancy,” says Ms. Mai.
“These points calm the mind and gently support circulation.”

Ear Seeds for Labor: What You Should Know

Many women ask for specific points to encourage labor or stimulate contractions. TCM practitioners approach this cautiously.

• Ear seeds are not used to induce labor.
• Stimulation should remain gentle during late pregnancy.
• Hormonal-support points such as Endocrine and Kidney may be more helpful postpartum.

Ms. Mai emphasizes:

“For labor, our goal isn’t to force the body to act. Hormonal balance and Qi flow are much safer priorities, especially in the final weeks.”

Safety Guidelines for Using Ear Seeds During Pregnancy

• Apply ear seeds every 2–3 days.
• Or leave one rest day between applications.
• Avoid strong, prolonged pressure.
• Use only after the stable period of pregnancy (after the first trimester).
• Avoid if there is a history of miscarriage.

These precautions help protect both mother and baby while still offering gentle support.

TCM Advice for Easing Labor Pain Naturally

Ear seeds are only one part of TCM support. To help the body prepare for labor, TCM emphasizes strengthening Qi and nourishing blood.

Helpful foods include:

• Black beans
• Spinach
• Other blood-nourishing foods

Gentle activity can also make a difference:

“Walking or light stretching encourages Qi to move smoothly,” says Ms. Mai.
“Healthy Qi flow supports the mother’s strength and the baby’s growth, which becomes especially important during labor.”

Key Takeaway

Ear seeds can be a helpful tool during pregnancy, but their purpose is support, not stimulation. When used appropriately, they may ease nausea, support emotional wellness, and prepare the body for postpartum recovery.

Try our Anti-Aging Gua Sha Tool designed to bring out your skin’s natural glow.

Best Gua Sha Product

Facial Gua Sha Tool For Beginner

Purchase on Amazon

• Anti-Aging: The tool is designed to target 11 specific aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin. By following the 7-step routine, users can improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines naturally.
• Enhances Skincare Routine: It works effectively with serums and lotions, boosting absorption and efficacy of skincare products.
• Visible Skin Improvement: Users can expect a smoother complexion, reduced puffiness, and a more youthful appearance.

What a reviewer says: “The tool is made of ceramic. It’s very solid & it looks like it will last me a lifetime. I’ve used it about four times & it really brings circulation to the areas I work on. I believe in time it’s going to make a difference in my skin. It comes in a cute pink zipper bag for traveling. Also, it’s one of the only Gua Sha face tools that comes with an eBook & a quick start guide.”