ACUPRESSURE could help enhance natural childbirth, according to a York teacher's research.

Qualified midwife Cheryl Mason discovered that by using acupressure during birth, there is a reduced risk of woman needing caesarean sections.

Developed in ancient China, acupressure applies pressure to acupuncture points, instead of needles, to influence the body's physiological processes.

Cheryl, who teaches western medicine at The Northern College of Acupuncture, in York, is now planning workshops for mums-to-be and their partners.

Cheryl said: "Acupressure is a tool to help women have more choice and control over the birth. My workshops give couples and extra skill with which to aid the process.

"The use of acupressure also involves their birth partner - whether it is their boyfriend, friend or mother - more actively in the process which helps bond the family closer.

Studies of birth partners attending births have shown that many of them have felt like spare parts. This gives them an active, useful role which is more satisfying for them and the mother."

Two evening workshops will be held at the college on February 21 and March 21.

For information, phone 01904 343305.

Updated: 09:20 Friday, January 21, 2005