Benefits of Reflexology in Pregnancy

Due to some recent enquiries and the fact that I was first introduced to Reflexology during pregnancy by my midwife 16 years ago I thought it was time to give more information about the benefits of Reflexology during Pregnancy.

We have started to talk about the benefits of Reflexology during Pregnancy but first I want to just clarify the importance of Health and Well Being of BOTH a woman and her partner before conception! There may be health issues that need addressing before you even become pregnant to ensure the best health for your baby. The baby's health can be put in jeopardy from long standing medical conditions, genetic defects and also from the parents 'lifestyle' prior and during pregnancy.

It is not always possible to be prepared as statistics have shown about half of pregnancies are not planned. It is a known fact that healthy, happy parents can contribute to having healthy, happy children.

For many people becoming pregnant can also be a problem with years of trying. It is important for you to know about things like Smoking is one factor that can cause a low sperm count, it can increase risk of miscarriage, damage to the placenta, low birth weight and a number of foetal abnormalities. Alcohol can also damage the sperm and ovum prior to conception as well as the developing embryo. It can also cause problems with development of the brain and nervous system. One major problem which is often overlooked is 'stress'!!! This needs to be addressed as it can lead to hormonal changes in the body which can in turn lead to fertility problems.

There are obviously many more things to consider when planning for a baby!

So although I am talking about the benefits of reflexology in pregnancy, it can also help with Infertility,Menstrual problems and also Menopause

Reflexology is a gentle, non invasive, holistic therapy. By working reflex areas on either or all of the ear, face, hands and feet we can treat the whole body.
It is relaxing on many levels : soothing, calming, balancing, revitalizing and boosting your whole body.
All systems of the body can benefit from a treatment.

When pregnant our body goes through many changes physically and emotionally to cater for the growing baby.
Every system is affected so it is important for your health to remain balanced so as to pass on this good health to the new life inside you.

Reflexology can help with nausea, backache, constipation, poor circulation and swollen ankles, high or low blood pressure, fatigue, headaches, anxiety and other symptoms/discomforts.
We can balance the fluctuating hormones with an Endocrine Balance technique.

Treatments towards the end of your pregnancy can assist with the preparation for the birth.

Studies have also shown that women who have regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy have far shorter labours than those who don't. I know from personal experience that both my labours were only 4 hours following reflexology throughout my pregnancy.

The benefits can continue postnatally helping in many areas such as breastfeeding, post natal depression, fatigue, stress and anxiety issues.


I hope this has been of some help and I look forward to seeing some of you very soon.

Jo

(information / statistics from the Reflexology Association of Australia - www.reflexology.org.au)