REN3 Central Pole

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

REN3 (Zhongji, “Central Pole”) is the Front-Mu of Bladder point of the Conception Vessel Meridian. It is located on the anterior midline, 4 cun inferior to the umbilicus, superior to the pubic symphysis. It regulates the bladder, benefits the kidneys, and regulates menstruation.

Location

On the anterior midline, 4 cun inferior to the umbilicus, superior to the pubic symphysis.

Needling

Insert perpendicularly 0.8-1.2 cun; caution for bladder if full.

⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk).
⚠ Have the patient void first — do not needle a full bladder.

TCM functions

Regulates the bladder, benefits the kidneys, and regulates menstruation.

Indications

Urinary retention, enuresis, frequent urination, morbid leukorrhea, prolapse of uterus, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, hernia, impotence, seminal emission, abdominal pain.

Front-Mu of BladderMeeting point of Ren & SP, LR, KD

Clinical notes

Ren 3 is the Front-Mu point of the Bladder, making it highly effective for all urinary disorders, including retention, incontinence, and painful urination. As a meeting point of the Ren, Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians, it strongly influences the lower jiao and reproductive system, making it essential for gynecological issues like irregular menstruation and uterine prolapse. It is a key point for strengthening the Kidneys and regulating the Bladder qi.

On the Conception Vessel channel

REN3 is one of 24 points on the Conception Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN3 located?

REN3 (Zhongji) is located on the anterior midline, 4 cun inferior to the umbilicus, superior to the pubic symphysis.

What is REN3 used for?

REN3 regulates the bladder, benefits the kidneys, and regulates menstruation. Common clinical indications include urinary retention, enuresis, frequent urination, morbid leukorrhea, prolapse of uterus, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, hernia, impotence, seminal emission, abdominal pain.

How is REN3 needled?

Insert perpendicularly 0.8-1.2 cun; caution for bladder if full. Caution: ⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk). ⚠ Have the patient void first — do not needle a full bladder.

Which meridian is REN3 on?

REN3 is a point on the Conception Vessel Meridian (Rèn Mài).

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.