Q1. Can reflexology help me to become pregnant?

A1. Reflexology is becoming a popular treatment to have during the 'preconceptual' period and some potential mums who have had difficulty in conceiving find that after regular sessions they become pregnant. This is usually in cases where there is no obvious cause to low fertility. The relaxing effects of the treatment may contribute to balancing the hormones and this could be a reason for the good results. Also, having regular treaments helps them to feel they are doing something 'positive'in their efforts to increase their chances of becoming pregnant.

Q2. Is reflexology safe during pregnancy?

A2. Generally the answer to this is yes. I often treat mums-to-be before they become pregnant and most of them choose to continue with sessions as soon as they have conceived. Some people are under the misconception that reflexology can be harmful during the early stages of pregnancy in case it causes a miscarriage. This is not the case. A miscarriage is generally a sign that there has been a problem with the baby's development or the mother's health and cannot be caused by a reflexology treatment.

• After 12 weeks, expectant mothers often find reflexology extremely helpful in coping with morning sickness, tiredness and common ailments associated with pregnancy

Q3. How can Reflexology Help Me During My Pregnancy?  

A3. Throughout your pregnancy, your body goes through significant emotional, physical and hormonal changes. The gentle techniques of Maternity Reflexology will guide your body through these changes and can help to alleviate or prevent discomfort and ailments that are associated with pregnancy. For example:

• Backache, Heartburn, Nausea and vomiting, Fatigue, Oedema, Stress and Anxiety, High blood pressure, Leg Cramps and Cystitis to name but a few.

Q4. How Can Reflexology Help Me During My Labour?  

A4. Reflexology can play a valuable role in labour. Research has shown that women who have had regular Reflexology treatments antenatally have shorter labours and require less pain relief. The following are the most common benefits of having Reflexology during labour:  

• Pain Relief, Relaxation, Stimulate efficient contractions, To release a retained placenta

Q5. How Can Reflexology Help Me Following the Birth of my Baby or Babies?  

A5. The post natal period (puerperium) is the time from the end of birthing until six to eight weeks later. During this time, your reproductive organs gradually settle to their non-pregnant state. Again it is a time of significant emotional, physical, and hormonal changes. Reflexology’s balancing, harmonising and restoring qualities can be very helpful at this time.

The following is a short list of ways in which you may be helped and assisted by Reflexology treatment during this period of transition:

• Breast engorgement, Inadequate lactation, Post natal depression, Aching joints and muscles, Perineal pain, Constipation, Urination difficulties and pain, Fatigue, Backache and sciatica, Hormonal balance, Relief of anxiety and stress, Insomnia

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Last modified: February 01, 2012