5 Acupoints That Are Beneficial for Both Cough and Insufficient Breast Milk

Introduction

Many postpartum mothers struggle with frequent coughing while also experiencing insufficient milk supply. In traditional Chinese medicine, the root cause of both symptoms is weakened lung Qi and insufficient Qi and blood. By breaking the vicious cycle where coughing exhausts the body and affects lactation function, and by using proper acupoint acupressure, you can restore both lung function and milk production together.

5 Acupoints Beneficial for Cough and Insufficient Breast Milk

1. Dazhui — GV14

Location: In the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra. When you tilt your head forward, locate the most prominent bone at the back of the neck (seventh cervical vertebra), and find the small depression directly below it.

Effects: Dazhui is the premier acupoint for enhancing immunity and improving respiratory function. It rapidly alleviates cough symptoms and restores lung function. Simultaneously, it promotes Qi and blood circulation throughout the body, supplying the energy needed for milk production.

Acupressure Method: Use warm fingers to massage up and down for 5 minutes, or gently tap with the edge of a coin. Stimulate once in the morning and once in the evening for best results.

2. Shanzhong — CV17

Location: On the upper sternum, at the exact midpoint of the line connecting both nipples. It is located between the fourth ribs (fourth intercostal space) and can be found at the center of bilateral symmetry.

Effects: Shanzhong is directly connected to breast health and alleviates chest discomfort caused by coughing while enhancing milk secretion function. It normalizes lung Qi to reduce coughing while simultaneously promoting milk flow.

Acupressure Method: Slowly press with your thumb, applying pressure for 10 seconds, then release. Repeat this cycle. Stimulating this point 30 minutes before nursing promotes better milk flow.

3. Lieque — LU7

Location: Above the wrist crease on the thumb side of the forearm, approximately 1.5 cun (about one thumb width) away. When you slightly flex your wrist, it is felt as a small depression on the radius bone.

Effects: An important acupoint on the lung meridian, it corrects respiratory function to directly suppress coughing. It enhances the body’s defensive Qi to prevent cough from colds and improves Qi and blood circulation to restore milk production capacity.

Acupressure Method: Use the opposite thumb to massage in circular motions for 1 minute. Both arms must be stimulated for effectiveness. Repeat 3-4 times daily.

4. Fenglong — ST40

Location: On the outer side of the lower leg, 8 cun (about 8 finger widths) below the lateral knee prominence toward the ankle. Find it by following the center of the lateral surface of the tibia (shinbone).

Effects: It enhances overall immunity to address the root cause of coughing—weakened lung function. It activates digestive function to promote nutrient absorption, generating the Qi and blood necessary for milk production.

Acupressure Method: Press firmly with your thumb until you feel a slight soreness. Stimulate both legs for 1 minute each, twice daily for optimal results.

5. Chize — LU5

Location: Above the crease on the inside of the elbow, on the outer side of the biceps tendon (the tendon bulging on the inside of the arm). When the arm is extended, it is located slightly toward the thumb side of the center of the inside of the elbow.

Effects: An acupoint that strengthens lung function, it promotes recovery of lungs damaged by coughing. While improving respiratory function, it enhances lactation-related function to naturally promote milk production.

Acupressure Method: Use the opposite hand to gently massage in circular motions. A slight tingling sensation is appropriate. Stimulate twice daily, 2 minutes each time.

5-Minute Self-Care Routine

Practice this every morning before nursing:

Step 1 (1 minute): Massage Dazhui at the back of the neck with warm hands in up and down motions to awaken lung function.

Step 2 (1 minute): Massage Lieque on both wrists simultaneously to normalize respiratory function.

Step 3 (1 minute): Press Chize on both elbows in sequence to strengthen lung function.

Step 4 (1 minute): Repeatedly press and release Shanzhong in the center of the chest to activate gland function.

Step 5 (1 minute): Firmly press Fenglong on both shins to complete overall immunity enhancement.

By repeating this routine daily, you can experience reduced coughing and increased milk production within 1-2 weeks.