Having a baby is not about fertility or implantation of the egg but it is the interconnection and balance of both systems. Reflexology can benefit every stage of the pregnancy, from conception through all three trimesters, preparing for labour and birth and even post-partum. Reflexology helps to support women navigating common conditions such as tiredness, nausea/morning sickness, pelvic girdle pain and lower back pain, sciatica, heartburn, constipation, insomnia, swollen limbs etc. Stress is a complex condition and affects almost all parts of the body in some way. There is some evidence that suggests that it may also affect fertility. Feeling stressed may be detrimental of achieving a successful pregnancy. Women who experience infertility often deal with the high stress levels and anxiety in the process of conceiving. Reflexology is not an instant route to conception but can help the woman to relax, improve mood, aiding sleep, relieve tension and imparting a sense of wellbeing which can help improve a couple’s chance of conception. Regular Reflexology sessions are an escape from busy day-to-day life and offer a time and space where you can focus purely on yourself and your growing baby. Many women are choosing to have reflexology throughout their pregnancy and postnatally as it offers many benefits in terms of improving relaxation, reducing anxiety, generally de-stressing and improving sleep. Reflexology can be used safely throughout pregnancy. The Reflexologist will take a full history to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate to carry out a treatment. Legal & Ethical Issues: There is always a small risk of miscarriage in any pregnancy and there is no evidence that reflexology would cause a miscarriage or increase the risk of miscarriage. A reflexologist does not take sole responsibility of care for the client but works complementary to the existing healthcare team at your GP’s surgery and to the remit of the midwife. For more information read this article published by the professional body for reflexology, Association of Reflexologists. https://www.ifwip.org/reflexology-pregnancy/
