Perception of Pregnant Women Toward Acupressure As a Method to Relieve Discomfort in Hypertensive Pregnancy
Perception of Pregnant Women Toward Acupressure As a Method to Relieve Discomfort in Hypertensive Pregnancy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31674/ijbb.2025.v02i04.003Abstract
Pregnancy is a complex physiological process that brings about significant physical, psychological, and hormonal changes, often leading to various discomforts such as back pain, cramps, nausea, sleep disturbances, and increased blood pressure. Hypertension in pregnancy remains one of the major complications that significantly contributes to maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023), hypertension accounts for approximately 14% of global maternal deaths.
Acupressure, a non-pharmacological complementary therapy that applies pressure to specific body points to balance energy flow (Qi) and stimulate the nervous system, has been reported to alleviate pregnancy discomforts and support blood pressure regulation. Despite its proven benefits, the implementation of acupressure among pregnant women—especially those with hypertension—remains limited due to lack of knowledge and awareness.This study aimed to describe the knowledge and perception of pregnant women regarding acupressure in managing discomfort during pregnancy with hypertension.
This research employed a descriptive quantitative design using a survey approach. The population comprised all pregnant women visiting Gajah Mada Public Health Center, Tembilahan, from October 20–22, 2025, totaling 50 respondents selected through total sampling. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from health records. Data processing involved editing, coding, scoring, entry, and cleaning, followed by descriptive analysis to determine the distribution of knowledge and perception variables.
Findings revealed that most respondents demonstrated good knowledge about acupressure (88%) and adequate knowledge (12%). Moreover, 92% of respondents expressed a positive perception toward acupressure, while 8% showed a negative perception. These results indicate that pregnant women possess sufficient understanding of acupressure as a complementary therapy for alleviating discomfort caused by hypertension during pregnancy. A strong level of knowledge contributes to a positive perception and acceptance of acupressure as part of antenatal care practices.
The majority of pregnant women at Gajah Mada Public Health Center, Tembilahan, exhibited good knowledge and positive perceptions regarding acupressure in reducing discomfort related to pregnancy-induced hypertension. Strengthening health education and promoting complementary therapy during antenatal care (ANC) programs are recommended to enhance maternal well-being holistically.
Keywords:
Perception, Pregnant Women, Gestational Hypertension, Acupressure, Complementary Therapy.References
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