reflexology for pregnancy
I trained as a reflexologist in 2004 when I was pregnant with my first child and I knew I wanted to help pregnant women feel as supported and as I did. Reflexology soothed my aches and calmed my mind.
I also credit it with helping me feel more human as I struggled with PND following the birth of my second child.
I completed specialist maternity training and today many of my treatments are for pregnancy or postnatal reflexology.
I provide a safe space for clients to voice any concerns and worries, as a mum of 3, I can relate!
Sometimes my treatments are full of chat, sometimes not but I hope each client leaves feeling more relaxed and prepared.
I can advise mindfulness techniques and provide guidance on self help hand reflexology. Some find it useful to use my treatment playlist during labour to help get them in the ‘zone.’
benefits of reflexology when pregnant
Reflexology can help prepare a woman’s body and mind for the intense hormonal and physical changes caused by pregnancy.
Much anecdotal evidence and several research papers support the benefits of reflexology whilst pregnant.
Regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy can lead to;
- significantly reduced pain during labour,
- shorter first stage labour.
- improved sleep quality postnatally
- reduced anxiety whilst pregnant.
Many find reflexology helps relieve symptoms of common pregnancy niggles, which helps contribute to an enjoyable pregnancy experience
reflexology for trimester, 1, 2 & 3
Reflexology can support you during each trimester. I often treat clients in very early pregnancy, especially my fertility clients.
Some choose to wait until after their 12 weeks scan. Before this pregnancy is less stable and I would not like you to associate a loss with a reflexology treatment.
Regular treatments during pregnancy can help you deal with aa range of symptoms common with pregnancy, such as;
♥ Odema and swelling ♥ Anxiety and stress ♥ Lower back ache and sciatica ♥ Headaches ♥ Constipation and digestive issues ♥ Sickness and nausea ♥ Anaemia ♥ High blood pressure ♥ Shortness of breath ♥ Restless legs and cramp ♥ Insomnia and sleeping issues ♥ Varicose veins ♥ Pelvic pain / SPD Symphysis pubis dysfunction ♥ Heartburn ♥ Fatigue ♥ Itching ♥ General discomfort.
- "Dr Gowri Motha's studies (1993/1994) on first time pregnant mums concluded that those who received at least 9 reflexology treatments during pregnancy had; far shorter labours, and required significantly less pain relief than those who had not received reflexology."
what to expect at your appointment
I will send you a questionnaire to complete prior to your appointment. I will use during your consultation - which is also your opportunity to ask me questions about your treatment.
I will create a treatment plan which I will adapt depending on your needs.
Every treatment includes lymphatic drainage to encourage movement of lymph which will reduce swelling and encourage the body to eliminate toxins.
how often should I have reflexology during pregnancy?
I recommend treatments fortnightly or monthly and weekly once 37 weeks.
Many have just one or two in the later stages of pregnancy.
During the 2nd trimester you will be reclined less to prevent supine hypertension.
You will not be rushed to leave.
Preparation for labour from 37 weeks
At 37 weeks treatments include specific reflexology techniques believed to help the body prepare for the birth.
There is no evidence that reflexology can induce labour
Reflexology can help a woman to mentally and physically prepare the body to follow a natural process.
Relaxation is key and reflexology helps reduce stress hormones which interfere with birth hormones and may delay the onset of labour.
We want the body to produce feel good endorphins.
♡ 3 x Blossom & Nurture
1 x 15 minute consultation,
3 x 1 hour appointments
1 x 15 minute facial reflexology add on (worth £15)
♡ 6 x Blossom & Nurture
1 x 15 minute consult,
6 x 1 hour appointments
2 x 15 minute facial reflexology add ons (worth £30)
Ideally one treatment to be pre 37 weeks. One may be taken up to 3 months post-natally with baby too.
postnatal Treatments
Reflexology during this time encourages much needed relaxation. This helps reduce stress hormones, allowing your body to rebalance and recover from the physical, emotional, hormonal and lifestyle changes. It helps blood flow, promoting healing and supports the immune function of the body and studies have also shown that it can help encourage milk production.
I often provide treatments to mums whilst they are nursing their baby and I can come to you for a treatment in the comfort of your own home where you would have a bit more flexibility.
I found postnatal treatment so worthwhile following the births of my children so I am sympathetic to the challenges that this period brings. From personal experience I know it can help with post-natal depression and it has helped my clients with constipation, back aches, sleep issues and helped to improve mood and energy levels.
- “A 2018 study showed that women who received reflexology for 6 sessions had a significantly higher increase in milk volume over a 5 day period compared to the control group who had just received regular breastfeeding training. This indicates that reflexology is effective on the volume of milk of mothers."
contraindications when pregnant
There are a few conditions contraindicated during pregnancy; - DVT (deep vein thrombois), Pre-eclampsia, Placenta Previa, grade 2, 3 or 4 after 32 weeks, Oligohydramnios, pre-term labour, Hydroamniosis (polyhdramnios) or oligohydramnios (too much or too little amniotic fluid or placental abruption. If you have any concerns please consult your doctor or midwife
Pregnancy and post natal related research
The effects of antenatal reflexology on labour outcomes - Women who had reflexology whilst pregnant had a shorter labour by an average of 44 minutes. (carried out on women who had experienced low back and/ or pelvic girdle pain during their pregnancy
The Effect of Reflexology on Pain Intensity and Duration of Labour - reflexology can be useful to decrease the pain intensity and labour duration.
The Effect of Foot Reflexology on the Anxiety Levels of Women in Labour - Reflexology had a positive effect in lowering anxiety scores of the pregnant women. A decrease in anxiety experienced at birth improves women's positive birth experiences, promotes a secure mother-infant attachment, and protects postpartum mental health.
The effectiveness of using foot reflexology to improve quality of sleep - Reflexology significantly improved the quality of sleep.
The effect of Reflexology on the Breast Milk Volume of Preterm Infants' Mothers - Reflexology received postnatally is effective on the volume of milk of mothers, and can be used along with regular lactation training.
