Urinary incontinence is a topic that most people would rather avoid when discussing aging. The condition affects both men and women and becomes significantly more common after the age of 60. Although it is common, many people still hesitate to discuss it openly.
Urinary incontinence can greatly diminish quality of life, increase the burden on caregivers, and restrict independence. However, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) suggests that aging does not have to go hand in hand with urinary dysfunction. One effective acupoint to consider is Water Passage (Shui Dao, ST28), located on the lower abdomen, which offers practical help for all-too-common concerns.
A Classical Name That Speaks Volumes
Shui Dao was first recorded in the “A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,” one of the oldest surviving texts on acupuncture. Its functions align perfectly with both name and anatomy. Shui Dao is located near the bladder and directly influences urination. Its role, however, extends beyond regulating bladder function. It is known to connect with both the urinary and reproductive systems, serving as a valuable support for regulating bodily fluids and reproductive function in both men and women.
Support for What the Body Should Already Be Doing
Shui Dao’s primary role is to help the body urinate when it’s supposed to—and stop when it’s not. It’s particularly helpful when the bladder fails to empty completely, a common issue that can occur after childbirth or with aging. This acupoint also plays a role in reducing water retention (edema), flushing out excess fluids that may otherwise linger in the body.
On a deeper level, Shui Dao is also a common part of acupuncture protocols targeting reproductive health. For women, it has been used to address missed periods, fibroids, and difficulty conceiving. For men, its support of the lower abdominal organs makes it a helpful natural approach to managing reproductive health, including challenges like infertility or inflammation in the pelvic region.
Modern Studies Back Ancient Claims
Studies support the effectiveness of Shui Dao in regulating urinary function. In one clinical study, women who had recently given birth were divided into two groups—one received rapid massage at Shui Dao, and the other received no intervention. The massage group had a better sense of bladder fullness, urinated earlier and more fully, and were significantly less likely to develop postpartum urinary retention.
Another study focused on women experiencing stress urinary incontinence. The researchers utilized a specific acupuncture technique that involved inserting needles at Zhibian (BL54) and Shui Dao points. Compared to a control group that received sham treatment, women in the real acupuncture group experienced less frequent and less severe urine leakage. They reported a better quality of life—even a month after treatment ended.
How to Locate and Stimulate Shui Dao
To locate this acupoint, place your four fingers together horizontally, just under your belly button, and measure straight down the midline. Then, move two thumb-widths to either side. Shui Dao is a bilateral acupoint, meaning there’s one on each side. When pressing or massaging, look for a slightly sore or tender spot—this is usually the body’s way of signaling you’ve found the right place.
Ways to Stimulate Shui Dau
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy using dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Avoid this area entirely if you have injuries, inflammation, or wounds nearby. Always use gentle, natural herbal patches if your skin is prone to irritation.
Reclaiming Confidence, One Acupoint at a Time
It can feel awkward or even embarrassing to talk about frequent bathroom visits or the frustration of always feeling the need to go, but not being able to. Fortunately, there is an accessible and low-risk way to support the body’s systems. Whether you’re actively dealing with an issue or want to give your urinary system a tune-up, it’s a small act of self-care that can have a big impact.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 20 July 2025
