Specialised foot massage can help your body to manage the stresses of everyday life and cope with many of the common ailments associated with pregnancy, such as fatigue, mood swings, nausea, vomiting, swollen ankles, plus pelvic and back pain. So just imagine easing off your shoes and sitting back to enjoy an hour of blissful relaxation. A time for you to convey positive, relaxed, tranquil emotions to your baby. A reflexology massage not only feels wonderful, but also provides you with time to breathe and enjoy your pregnancy.
Pain Relief
During labour itself, reflexology can be used for relaxation and pain relief. Postnatally, it is excellent for breastfeeding problems such as maintaining or increasing milk supply, postnatal depression and general relaxation. Research has shown that women who have regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy have far shorter labour than those who don't (on average one third as long). Reflexology is continuing to establish its reputation and popularity by the positive results people experience. Empiric knowledge and research studies have demonstrated that those receiving regular reflexology during pregnancy have better pregnancies and have shorter birthing with less intervention.
The unborn baby also appears to enjoy reflexology and it is common for babies to become very active during a treatment. In some cases the therapist will be able to feel the baby growing - first like a little tadpole, and then you may be able to see a bulge growing on the inner side of your foot, above the heel. Your feet really can reflect what's going on inside your body especially at this exciting time.
Reflexology is great in pregnancy because all you need to do is ease off your shoes and socks and sit back, usually in a recliner chair or on a couch. There is no need to worry about undressing or lying flat as the reflexologist really just needs your feet so you can easily find a comfortable position that suits all three of you… the reflexologist, you and your baby!
Complementary Treatment
The history of this specialised holistic massage shows how complementary therapies enhanced people's lives well before western medicine developed. The term “alternative therapy” is often used for treatments of this kind and this may be misleading. It could suggest that reflexology is a replacement or alternative to traditional medical care but it is not. This specialised holistic
The treatment is not a replacement for medical care and advice from your health care provider should always be sought when you have health concerns.
If you choose to begin any complementary therapies during pregnancy you and your therapist will decide whether you wish to begin during the first three tentative months of pregnancy. At this stage, many women worry about the risk of miscarriage. Even though the aim of reflexology and many other holistic therapies is simply to bring about balance and promote wellbeing, it would be all too easy for a mum to feel that the treatment may have contributed in some way if the pregnancy ended during this time. To avoid doubt, many therapists invite mums-to-be to get back in touch in the second trimester. However, there are practitioners who are experienced or who specialise in maternity treatments that may be willing to treat at this time, so please do talk to them.
Every woman’s pregnancy is unique and you are your own best expert. We all need advice and support at this exciting time and it is important to seek out whatever benefits you and your baby. Relaxing and looking after your wellbeing may help you to enjoy this wonderful time and promote a positive, healthy and calm environment for your baby. Its an exciting journey to becoming a thirty-something-mum!
Many people find complimentary therapies very beneficial and enjoyable for adults, children and babies alike. If you are concerned about you or your child's health please do consult your GP.
