The Reflexology Spa

MATERNITY REFLEXOLOGY

Maternity reflexology is aimed specifically at women during pre-conception, pregnancy, labour and the post-natal period.

Research suggests that the health of a new born baby is influenced by the health of the mother during pregnancy. Thankfully women are now becoming more aware of this. Many pregnant women now look to complimentary therapies and reflexology is one of the most popular.

The aim is to prepare for a natural birth as possible, promote a speedy recovery however the birth takes place either naturally or by caesarean section and help with breastfeeding.

Pre-conception

Reflexology works on balancing all of the body's systems to increase health and well-being and provide the best possible environment for conception to take place. Both women and men can benefit from reflexology during this time to help balance the hormonal system and stimulate the reproductive organs.

Many couples who are having difficulty conceiving have nothing physically wrong. Unfortunately, worrying about falling pregnant can make the situation worse - you can't fall pregnant until you relax and you can't relax until you fall pregnant. Reflexology can help by encouraging deep relaxation.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes, all of which affect the emotional, hormonal and physiological balance of the body. Reflexology can help to restore the body’s equilibrium. Specifically, reflexology may help with the following:

Overall relaxation
Relief of stress and anxiety
Increased energy levels
Indigestion and heartburn
Backache
Nausea and vomiting
Fluid retention (e.g. in the ankles)
Bladder weakness
Constipation
Insomnia
In some cases turning a breech baby

Reflexology is safe and effective during pregnancy. It is, however, not recommended if there is a history of premature labour, severe hypertension or recent vaginal bleeding. If you suspect any problems in your pregnancy it is important to contact your midwife.

Labour

Research conducted in the UK has shown that regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy may shorten the duration of labour, with some women even requiring less pain-relief.

Other benefits include:

Induction of labour for women who have passed their due date
Pain relief
Co-ordination and acceleration of regular contractions
Aid with backache and similar discomforts

Post-natal

Reflexology may help to alleviate post-natal problems and help with breastfeeding. It can also help mum recover from the birthing experience however straight forward or complicated. It will help to rebalance the body and most importantly give mum some time for herself.

Reflexology has also been shown to be effective for:

Engorged breasts
Urine retention
Constipation
Backache
Stress and anxiety problems
Sleep problems
Post-natal depression
Increase in energy levels

A full medical history will be taken as with any new client and if there is any history of complications or history of miscarriage consent will need to be obtained from your midwife, GP or consultant before we proceed with treatments. For some women it may be suggested that we wait until after the first trimester to commence treatments.