Skip to main content

Wristbands for Morning Sickness

Do they work?

There is a lot of anecdotal evidence that suggests they do, and many people swear by them! They have also been tested in a number of different trials with positive results. Acupressure has been used in Chinese medicine for many years and many people swear by it. The wristbands work by applying gentle pressure to the Nei-Kuan acupressure point which is located on the inside of the wrist.

What is acupressure?

Acupressure is the application of pressure to acupuncture points on the body. Acupressure is commonly applied either by hand or with a band, like the Sea Band. A band is preferred when the pressure needs to be constant over an extended period of time to provide relief, as is the case with Morning Sickness.

So how does the Relief Band work, if they don’t apply pressure?

The Sea Bands work by applying pressure to the Nei-Kuan acupressure point, whereas the Relief Band stimulate the same point electrically. The net result is the same – the stimulation seems to disrupt the nausea/vomiting signalling process between the brain and the stomach – although the effectiveness varies from person to person and from one device to another.

Are they waterproof?

The Sea Bands aren’t affected by water, and the Relief Bands are splash proof.

Can they be used with a pacemaker?

The Sea Bands are probably OK, but the Relief Band isn’t recommended. If there is any doubt at all, you should always obtain medical advice before using these devices.

Which one is best?

They all have their own pros and cons:

image shows seaband acupressure wristbands for nausea and sickness
Sea Bands – are cheap, comfortable to wear for extended periods and discrete. However, they’re not always as effective as the Relief Band.
Relief Band
Relief Band – is water resistant and it seems to be easier to use effectively, but it does cost a bit more. However it’s more elegant, and it seems to be a better product all round.

Click to return to the Morning Sickness page …