The Womb and Vitals pressure point (B 48) is an extra point associated with the Urinary Bladder meridian, traditionally linked to the regulation of pelvic energy and reproductive function. Located on the outer edge of the sacral region, this point is commonly applied to release deep tension in the hips and buttocks, and to relieve lower-back and sciatic pain.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | B 48 – Womb and Vitals |
| Body Area | Buttocks |
| Exact Location | Midway between hipbone and buttock base, outside sacrum |
| Common Uses | Relieves lower-back pain, sciatica, pelvic tension |
| Stimulation Technique | Place hands under buttocks; rock knees side-to-side for 2 min |
| Contraindications | Avoid during pregnancy or acute sacral inflammation |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Womb and Vitals pressure point is frequently indicated in:
- Lower-back pain, especially in the sacroiliac and gluteal region
- Chronic pelvic tension, often linked to reproductive or urinary imbalances
- Sciatic nerve irritation, resulting in radiating pain down the leg
- Menstrual discomfort, due to pelvic stagnation
- Postural fatigue, particularly from prolonged sitting
This point influences both musculoskeletal and energetic systems, making it valuable in multi-symptom pelvic and lower spinal issues.
Location
B 48 is located on the outer buttock, approximately midway between the posterior superior iliac spine (hipbone) and the lower margin of the gluteus maximus, adjacent to the sacrum.
To find it:
- Lay flat on your back
- Slide your hand under the buttock and locate the midpoint between the outer hip and the base of the buttocks
- The point lies in a muscular groove near the piriformis and gluteus medius muscles
It is not on the midline or spinal column but lies lateral to the sacral region, often marked on posterior pelvic acupressure maps.
How to Stimulate It
To stimulate the Womb and Vitals pressure point:
- Technique: Lie on your back and place your hands or fists under each buttock where the point lies
- Motion: Gently rock the knees side-to-side, allowing the pressure to shift into the gluteal muscles
- Duration: Maintain motion and contact for 2 minutes
- Frequency: Practice once to twice daily, especially during episodes of lower-back fatigue or pelvic tension
- Alternative: Use a soft acupressure ball beneath each point in supine position, keeping knees bent
Avoid prolonged direct pressure without motion to prevent muscular strain.
Benefits and Common Uses
B 48 is traditionally and therapeutically used to:
- Release pelvic and gluteal tension
- Ease lower-back and sacral discomfort
- Support sciatic nerve health by reducing compression in the piriformis region
- Facilitate menstrual flow by relieving pelvic congestion
- Improve pelvic mobility, especially after long periods of sitting or inactivity
This point is also said to regulate Qi in the lower burner, the TCM term for the energetic center governing the intestines, reproductive organs, and urinary system.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Anatomically, B 48 is situated near:
- The piriformis muscle, which can impinge the sciatic nerve
- The gluteus medius and minimus
- Lumbosacral nerves (L4–S3) and local vasculature
Stimulation may:
- Reduce neural tension through passive mobilization of deep pelvic musculature
- Improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage to the lower body
- Facilitate the release of muscular adhesions
- Influence the autonomic nervous system, especially parasympathetic tone related to reproductive function
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point is especially helpful for clients who carry unspoken tension in the hips and sacrum. It provides a grounding, centering effect and often relieves discomfort from prolonged sitting, especially when combined with breathwork.
Safety & Contraindications
Do not stimulate B 48 if:
- You are in the second or third trimester of pregnancy
- You have acute injury or inflammation in the sacrum or gluteal region
- There is numbness, tingling, or radiating pain that worsens with stimulation
Always begin with gentle rocking or soft manual contact and avoid hard surfaces. For comprehensive precautions, refer to the acupressure safety guide.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
B 48 is commonly used with:
- B 23 – Sea of Vitality to support lumbar Qi and relieve low back pain
- K 3 – Bigger Stream for lower-body energy flow and ankle–spine connection
- CV 6 – Sea of Energy for pelvic vitality and reproductive balance
Complementary techniques:
- Pelvic tilts to enhance spinal flexibility
- Gentle glute stretches or hip openers post-stimulation
- Warm compresses applied to sacral region for muscular release
Scientific Perspective
Modern research supports pelvic acupressure points for:
- Reducing lower-back and sciatic pain via myofascial release
- Enhancing blood flow and neuromuscular coordination in the hip and pelvis
- Modulating the sacral plexus for relief of pelvic floor tension and dysmenorrhea
Studies also confirm mobility-based acupressure, such as rocking or positional release, can reduce mechanical compression of the sciatic nerve and relieve sacral stiffness (NIH).