Maternity reflexology is simply reflexology used to nurture the woman and her baby on a physical, emotional and spiritual level - pre-conceptually, throughout pregnancy, the birth itself and during the postnatal period. 

It is an ancient natural therapy which uses subtle energies of the feet to balance and harmonise the entire being, leading to health and well-being. It is based on the principle that there are reflex areas on the feet and hands which correspond to all the organs, systems and parts of the body. When these points are stimulated, tension is eased, nerve and blood supply is increased and the body's own healing potential is activated. 

Pre-Conception and Fertility

Planning for and conceiving a baby is one of the most exciting experiences in a couple's life. Pre-conceptual care is all about preparing the body, mind and spirit for the miracle of conceiving, growing and birthing a baby and both men and women are encouraged to have treatments to help regulate the menstrual cycle and to stimulate healthy sperm production. 

For others the disappointment and emotional upset of not conceiving can have a major impact on their lives and cause great anguish. Reflexology can be used to aid conception and has an excellent reputation in helping couples overcome fertility challenges by balancing all the body systems, regulating cycles and reducing stress and tension. When your body is in this balanced, relaxed state, the conditions are ideal for conception.  

During Pregnancy

During the nine months of pregnancy a woman's body goes through enormous physical changes; a new life is developing inside her and pregnancy hormones are abundant.  For some women this can be a long period of discomfort and fatigue with nausea, headaches, backache and other conditions associated with pregnancy, taking away the joy and excitement of being pregnant and expecting a baby. Reflexology has shown to be excellent in treating these common conditions and in maintaining balance during the rapidly changing experience of pregnancy.

 Birth

Many women seek the help of a reflexologist if they go over their due dates and want to avoid a hospital induction. The reflexologist will work certain points on the feet to gently encourage the body to go into labour naturally, and, if mother and baby are ready, labour may start within a few days. Reflexology can also be extremely effective during the intensity of labour itself in helping the woman keep focused and relaxed.  

After the birth

Women can feel both jubilant and exhausted as well as experiencing other conflicting emotions after the baby's birth. Loss of sleep, breastfeeding problems, frustration and fatigue etc. can all take its toll on the new family. A reflexology treatment can be wonderful at this time as well as helping with other conditions associated with the postnatal period. 

• helps lactation

• post-epidural pain

• helps recovery following section

• calms and relaxes mother & baby

• balances the body after the birth

Reflexology is one of the safest, most supportive therapies for pregnant women. It is excellent during pregnancy and birth, both for the mother and her baby. Research shows that regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy can improve the chances of a shorter, less intense labour; improved recovery time and both mother and baby tend to be calmer and more relaxed which enhances bonding and breastfeeding.