• 대한한의학원전학회지
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• 제26권1호
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• pp.131-150
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• 2013

Subject : The Imminent Labor Pulse(臨産 離經脈, extra-meridian pulse approaching labor) is one of many practical clinical knowledges, unique to Traditional Korean(Eastern) Medicine. Objective : This research explores the origin and change of perception on the subject throughout history, with objective to sort out practical knowledge applicable in the clinic of today. Also, it draws clinical meaning of pulse diagnosis according to the physiological theories, and suggests directions for future clinical researches. Method : First, the Imminent Labor Pulse was examined based on major publications such as the "Nanjing", "Maijing" and theories of major doctors. Second, this previous study was examined through clinical observation research. Third, further research was carried out on pulse theory according to the Traditional Medical theories. Fourth, their clinical practicality and points of further research were sorted out. These points need to be examined through additional clinical research. Conclusion : The following conclusions could be drawn from study of the Imminent Labor Pulse. From the Imminent Labor Pulse which indicated the beginning of the first period of labor in the "Maijing", it developed into trying to grasp the beginning of the second period of labor which is the actual time of labor, through "Zhubingyuanhoulun" and "Shizaizhifang". By Xueji, another pulse that could be felt on the middle finger of the mother had been discovered. The middle finger is where the Pericardium Meridian flows. The child's connection to the uterus becomes disconnected on the first period, but that with the Pericardium meridian which provides blood meridian to the Taichongmai of the child continues throughout labor until the umbilicus chord is cut. Therefore, this middle finger pulse could serve as showing the heart condition of the mother and child during labor. The time of its appearance and disappearance, and their correlation with the child's heartbeat need to be clinically examined.