Guest Post: Reflexology in Pregnancy, FromBumps2Babies

FROMBUMPS2BABIES explores complementary therapies in pregnancy and birth with a look at the benefits of reflexology. This therapy is already being used in some maternity units and an increasing number of health professionals are opting for further training in the benefits of its use.

Reflexology is a natural therapy based on the theory that points on the feet and hands correspond to specific organs and systems in the body and that stimulating these points known as reflexes can promote health benefits. An experienced reflexologist can tell a lot about a person’s well being simply by looking and feeling the soles of their feet!

Reflexology was thought to have originated in China about 5000 years ago and was even used by the ancient Egyptians, however in more recent times it was rediscovered by Dr William Fitzgerald in America in the 1870s when he identified zones in the body that applied to paths that ended in the hands and feet. By massaging and applying pressure to a particular point in the foot it has a soothing effect and may create a sensation elsewhere in the body.

Reflexology does not use any sort of medication and is non invasive so it proves to be a popular therapy for pregnant women to use in the relief of a variety of ailments. Indeed it can also be used to promote fertility for both men and women.  It may be used alongside other therapies, as long as the practitioner is fully aware of this, before starting the treatment.

From the early stages of morning sickness to the discomfort of labour and delivery, pregnancy can be physically demanding. Reflexology can help with relief of the following complaints during pregnancy:

Morning sickness
Nausea & headaches
Pain & discomfort
Loss of bladder control
Backache
Stress & anxiety
Lack of sleep & fatigue
Digestive problems e.g. constipation
Swollen/puffy ankles & legs
Cramp
Induction of Labour

FROMBUMPS2BABIES consulted local midwife Denise Austin who specialises in maternal reflexology to describe how this therapy has been beneficial with some of her clients. Denise talked about three case studies she had been involved in, and the surprising results she had noticed. The first woman had not experienced an ideal birth with her first child so was extremely anxious and frightened when she was expecting her second child. She decided to have weekly treatments and when she was due to give birth she felt relaxed and in control of the process, she had faith in her midwives and had a beautiful water birth. She has gone on to have more children which she attributes to using reflexology to relieve stress and anxiety. The second women had been trying to conceive for a few years and sought reflexology therapy. She had a number of treatments which focused on the reflexes for the uterus, ovary and fallopian tubes to help relax and normalise the corresponding body organs and subsequently found herself pregnant. The third women we discussed had previously experienced a premature labour. On finding out that she was expecting another baby she was naturally anxious, however, regular treatments throughout her pregnancy helped with her anxiety as well as sickness and fatigue which she found very relaxing. She subsequently went on to have her baby at full term.

It is recommended to have a consultation with a qualified reflexologist before commencement of treatment and to consult your midwife, GP or Consultant as reflexology is not suitable for all women especially those with a history of miscarriage and premature labour.

*From Bumps 2 Babies are qualified midwives and mums offering support from early pregnancy right through to life with a new baby. Their advice is fun, friendly and affordable and will guide and support to ensure that women have a positive birth experience and enjoy the early days with their baby.  www.frombumps2babies.co.uk