Maternity Reflexology

Reflexology is a non-invasive, gentle, natural therapy which aims to harmonise the mind, body and spirit to support women through pre-conception, pregnancy and after the birth.

Pre-conceptual care

Reflexology may be beneficial to both partners. Reflexology and a healthy lifestyle, including nutrition and excercise, tries to bring about optimum health, creating the ideal environment for conception and early foetal development.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy a woman's body experiences many hormonal, physical and emotional changes. It can be a great source of stress to the future mum adjusting to these changes as well as worrying about what lies ahead.

Reflexology may be a great support at this time, aiming to relieve stress and tension - bringing about deep relaxation and creating a sense of well being. My goal is that the mother feels supported mentally, physically and emotionally throughout her pregnancy.

Reflexology treatments aim to ease the symptoms of pregnancy ailments and discomforts including:

Nausea and vomiting
General relaxation
Relief of stress and anxiety
Increased energy levels
Reduce heartburn
Relieve backache
Oedema (swelling, mainly of feet and ankles)
Ligament and groin pain
Symphysis pubis dysfunction
Sciatica
Constipation
Cystitis
Insomnia and sleep problems
Turning a "back to back" baby
Turning a breech baby

Preparation for labour/priming to encourage labour

Research has shown that women who have regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy are more likely to have a shorter labour and require less pain relief. (Dr Gowri Motha - "The Magic of Reflexology in Pregnancy" - 1994 study.)

Postnatal reflexology

The body goes through huge changes during pregnancy and the birthing process, both physically and emotionally. Reflexology aims to restore balance to the body and improve the new mums general well-being. 

The postnatal period is the time from the end of birthing until six to eight weeks later when the reproductive organs have returned to a non-pregnant state. You can begin postnatal treatments as soon as you wish, from the first day after the birth.  If it is difficult for you to find time to fit in reflexology around your babys needs then it is perfectly fine for baby to come to the session and have a cuddle or a feed while you have your treatment.

Is it OK to have reflexology throughout the entire pregnancy?

Yes. Though more precautions are taken in the first trimester of pregnancy, a client may benefit from sessions before conception until well after the baby is born.

Maternity vs Regular Reflexology

The methods used in Maternity Reflexology differ from regular reflexology in the use of..

  • More relaxing techniques (to calm both mother and baby).
  • Direct attention to the aches and pains commonly associated with pregnancy (backache, heartburn, swelling etc)
  • Energetic balancing of the reflexology endocrine zones, for the overall mental and physical wellbeing of both mother and baby.
  • An overall more gentle approach in the use of all techniques, customised to each stage of pregnancy.

Reflexology is safe and effective during pregnancy. It is, however, not recommended if there is a history of premature labour, severe hypertension, placenta previa or recent vaginal bleeding. If you suspect any problems in your pregnancy it is important to contact your doctor or midwife.