Applying pressure to specific points on the body, such as the webbing between the thumb and index finger, may help calm the gag reflex during oral sex, according to practitioners of Chinese medicine and sexology. This low-risk, free technique involves stimulating acupressure points that are believed to balance meridians connected to the stomach and throat.
Key Acupressure Points for Gag Reflex
Maz Roginski, a practitioner of Chinese medicine and acupuncture, identifies Large Intestine 4 (LI4), also known as Hegu, as a primary point. Located in the meatiest part of the webbing between the thumb and index finger, LI4 is thought to calm the gag reflex by balancing the stomach meridian. “The stomach meridian runs through the stomach organ and up the throat to the mouth, so balancing this meridian can calm a gag reflex,” Roginski said. “Both the pericardium and large intestine meridians share a special connection to the stomach, which is why these two points are particularly beneficial.”
Another effective point is Pericardium 6 (P6 or Neiugan), located on the inside of the wrist, between two tendons, three finger-widths down from the wrist crease. Sophie Roos, a licensed sexologist and relationship therapist at Passionerad, explains: “Stimulating these points can have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, but can also work as a diversion maneuver, which can make, for example, the gag reflex less sensitive, meaning that you won’t gag as easily when giving oral!”
Conception Vessel 24 (CV24, Ren 24, or Chengjiang) is another point, found in the groove between the chin and lower lip. Roginski suggests using travel or morning sickness bands to stimulate P6 if hands need to be free, and notes that CV24 is convenient when hands are near the face.
How Acupressure Works
“Acupressure is like using a switch to turn off a light bulb. You don’t go directly to the light bulb and remove it from the fitting every time you want to switch it off — you simply find the switch that works,” Roginski said. “Acupressure is the same. Our whole body is connected via meridians, which are circuitry that connects all aspects of our being. We have 14 main meridians and some share especially close connections and have strong effects on the related organs.”
For best results, Roos recommends stimulating the pressure points for five minutes before oral sex and during the act. However, effectiveness varies by individual. “For some people, it works very well and they feel a big difference,” Roos said, “while others feel little or no change at all, so it’s not the solution for everyone.”
Safety and Additional Points
Most acupressure points are generally safe, but LI4 is known to induce labor and should be avoided during pregnancy. “As always, because we are all unique, if you have any specific health concerns, it is best to check in with a practitioner of acupuncture,” Roginski added.
Other points that may enhance sexual experiences include Kidney 1 (KD1) on the sole of the foot, which is considered a powerful point for sexual energy, and points along the Conception Vessel meridian on the midline of the belly and chest. Massaging the inner thighs, neck, and shoulders can also increase blood flow and promote relaxation. “You can press and massage your inner thigh to increase the blood flow to the genital area, as well as create a warming feeling,” Roos shared.
