Acupuncture
View all acupuncture points on this meridian and explore the channel pathway.
View meridian
EX-CA
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
- Contraindicated during pregnancy
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Abdomen — Lower
Location
3 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 2 cun superior to the upper border of the pubic symphysis.
Main Actions
- Benefits the Lower Burner
Indications
Commentary
Qimen EX-CA (气门, 'Qi Gate') is an extra point in the lower abdomen primarily used for gynecological and urological conditions. Its name reflects its function as a 'gate' for regulating qi in the lower jiao—the area encompassing the bladder, intestines, and reproductive organs.
Located 3 cun lateral to the midline and 2 cun above the pubic bone, this point lies near Zigong EX-CA-1 (the 'Uterus Point') and shares many similar indications. It is particularly valued in clinical practice for treating menstrual irregularities, urinary problems, and lower abdominal pain. Because of its proximity to internal organs, practitioners should needle with appropriate caution and avoid deep insertion.
As an extra point discovered through clinical experience rather than classical channel theory, Qimen EX-CA does not belong to any of the fourteen primary meridians. However, its therapeutic effects are explained by its anatomical relationship to the lower dantian (energy center) and its ability to influence local circulation and organ function.
Classical Sources
This extra point does not appear in the major classical texts such as the Huangdi Neijing or Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing. Like many extra points (经外奇穴), it was documented empirically through clinical practice over centuries and gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating lower abdominal and pelvic conditions.
The categorization of extra points on the chest and abdomen was standardized in modern acupuncture nomenclature systems, with the World Health Organization helping to establish the EX-CA designation for this anatomical region.
How to Locate
The distance between the upper border of the pubic symphysis and the center of the umbilicus is 5 cun. Guanyuan REN-4 is on the anterior midline and 2 cun superior to the upper border of the public symphysis. Qimen EX-CA is 3 cun lateral to Guanyuan REN-4.
Caution
This point is located in the lower abdomen close to the bladder, intestines, and in women, the uterus. Do not needle deeply to avoid puncturing the peritoneum or internal organs. Contraindicated during pregnancy due to its strong effect on the lower abdomen and potential to stimulate uterine contractions. Always ensure the patient has emptied their bladder before needling. Use caution in patients with full bladders or abdominal distension.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.5–1 cun. Caution: Peritoneum, pregnancy
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness in the lower abdomen. The sensation may spread toward the midline or radiate to the genital region. Some patients report a warm sensation or feeling of qi movement in the pelvic area.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Questionable
Related Resources
Browse All Points
Explore the complete collection of acupuncture points across all meridians.
View all meridians