RESEARCH by a former midwife has found that pregnant women who use acupressure have a much greater chance of having an easier, natural birth.

Midwife and nurse Cheryl Mason carried out the research for her MSc at The Northern College of Acupuncture, York.

Acupressure was developed in ancient China and applies pressure to acupuncture points, instead of needles, to influence the body's physiological processes.

Her research, the most extensive of its kind in the UK, compared the experiences of mothers using acupressure to assist natural childbirth with a control group who did not.

She found that, by using acupressure, it was more likely that women would have an easier, natural birth, significantly reducing the need for a Caesarean.

Now, she plans to apply her techniques in college workshops.

"It has always been my passion to combine traditional Western medicine with treatments such as acupuncture and acupressure," she said.

"The research showed that first-time mothers in the acupressure group averaged a labour which was up to almost three hours shorter."

College principal Richard Blackwell said: "We are delighted to be associated with Cheryl's important research, which has potential to help millions of mothers and their children."

Two evening workshops for mothers-to-be and their partners will be held at The Northern College of Acupuncture on February 21 and March 21. To book a place, call (01904) 343305.