Maternity Reflexology

Maternity Reflexology is a specialised form of reflexology which covers pre-conceptual care, IVF support, all stages of pregnancy, labour and the post-natal period.

It is recommended that you have regular treatments right through from conception to birth as research has shown that mums having regular treatments have a marked reduction in the duration of their labour and need less pain relief. 

A study by Dr. Gowri Motha and Dr. Jane McGrath (Nursing Times, Oct 11 1989) showed that pregnant women having 10 reflexology sessions from 20 weeks into their pregnancies had an average 5 hour first stage labour compared to text book figures of 16-24 hours.

Maternity Reflexology may help ease many symptoms associated with pregnancy and will help prepare you well for the birthing process.

You may find that many reflexologists won’t treat a pregnant woman during the first trimester of pregnancy, that is up until the 12^th week. This may be because they are newly qualified and/or haven’t had the necessary training or experience working in this area.  Maternity Reflexology cannot cause a viable foetus to miscarry or cause early delivery. It is a safe, gentle and non-invasive therapy.  It is believed that the majority of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities. It is still recommended that reflexology is given by a practitioner who has had specific training in the techniques needed to carry out safe and effective treatments.

Maternity Reflexology – Benefits

As well as having a deeply relaxing effect, Maternity Reflexology may help ease symptoms relating to;

Your pregnancy and labour will undoubtedly be one of the most exhilarating, exciting and emotional experiences of your life.  It is a completely natural and joyful event and reflexology may help you cope with the huge emotional and physical changes. Treatments may be beneficial at whatever stage of pregnancy you are at.

Post Term Pregnancy – Preparation for Birth

Sometimes a pregnancy may exceed the expected 40 weeks and your obstetric caregiver may decide that a medical induction is necessary.  If you are still in good health with no pregnancy complications, then with the agreement of your midwife, a specialized maternity reflexology treatment may help you prepare for the birth.  Techniques are used which will help you relax and can promote the spontaneous onset of labour. If labour occurs then this will avoid the need for a medical induction. As with a medical induction, there is no guarantee that a Reflexology treatment will start labour.

Contraindications

There are times during a pregnancy when it is not advisable to have Maternity Reflexology;

If you are unsure about any of the above, please don’t hesitate to contact me so we can discuss any of your concerns.  Please always follow the advice of your midwife or obstetric caregiver and ask their permission before you commence having maternity reflexology

The Post Natal Period

Continuing with reflexology treatments after the birth is highly recommended.  Your body again has to go through huge emotional and physical changes to return to a non-pregnant state. Reflexology can be a great support at this time, helping to stimulate lactation and returning the uterus to it’s normal size.

The first 6-8 weeks after the birth can be a very tiring and demanding time for a new mum but it is very important to find some time to relax and look after yourself.

Reflexology may help with;