Maternity Reflexology

Maternity reflexology vs regular reflexology

The methods used in maternity reflexology differ from regular reflexology in the use of;

• more relaxing techniques (to calm both mother and baby),
• direct attention to the aches and pains commonly associated with pregnancy (back ache, heartburn, swelling, sore feet, etc),
• energetic balancing of the reflexology endocrine zones, for the overall mental and physical well-being of both baby and mother,
• an overall more gentle approach in the use of all techniques, customized to each stage of pregnancy.

Maternity reflexology is a complementary health support for infertility and maternity clients and is not a substitute for obstetric or medical care.

Please feel free to share this information with your care provider, and contact me further with any questions or concerns.

Maternity reflexology;

• has been shown to be highly effective in reducing stress and anxiety, a major factor in infertility.
• helps to create a more natural balance of hormones, allowing optimal conditions for conception, pregnancy, and birth.
• may also ease many minor ailments of pregnancy.
• may be helpful in reducing the level of toxins, moderate oedema and high blood pressure, as well as the time spent in labour.
• Feels wonderful for the new mother or mother-to-be, while providing a healing sense of touch.

Are there any adverse reactions?

If you have a build up of toxins (from poor diet, lack of hydration, sleep, exercise etc) then you might experience some tenderness or feel a more immediate need to eliminate toxins at some point after a session. This is a normal reaction if you suffer poor health in general, and will typically only show up after the first couple of sessions. It simply means that the reflexology is working to achieve a balance in your body, which ultimately provides a better environment for both conception and sustaining the foetus.

Are the sessions painful, or can they be?

A session should always feel very relaxing and comfortable. The intention is to relieve stress and tension, not add to it. However, as noted above, if you have any underlying health issues, these will show up as tender areas on the feet. As reflexologists, we work out the tender areas in order to recreate a balance within the body and improve blood supply to the areas in need.

Is reflexology like massage?

Similar yes. However its not a foot massage. Though reflexology should feel good, a practitioner will also be looking for clues as to your overall health in the form of tender reflex areas. Sometimes there's more questions or discussion during a session in order to address any areas of concern.

Do I need to get permission from my obstetric care giver?

It is best that your obstetric care giver knows that you are receiving reflexology even if you have a natural, uncomplicated pregnancy. With some more serious obstetric/medical conditions reflexology will need to be prescribed by your obstetric care giver. You will be asked to complete a maternity reflexology questionnaire before your first reflexology session.

How will I feel after a session

Because our bodies are unique, so are the reactions to a session. Generally, you should feel great after a session. "Balanced; more energetic; very relaxed; an overall good feeling; like a mini body massage." These are just a few descriptions clients have used after a session.

How long are the sessions

The length of a session depends on the client's specific health issues, but most average around one hour at the most. The length of a session is also up to the client.

Is reflexology safe throughout the entire pregnancy?

Absolutely. Though more precautions are taken in the first trimester of pregnancy, a client can benefit from sessions starting from before conception till well after the baby's birth. The baby can also benefit from a few brief sessions, as well as having "mommy or daddy" learn a few techniques to use on their baby. Reflexology is also recommended throughout miscarriage as well, as it provides a healing comfort for the client as well as bringing the body back into balance.

Can reflexology cause a miscarriage?

No! Maternity Reflexology cannot and will not cause a viable foetus to be miscarried nor delivered early. Many midwives believe that during the first trimester, the most common cause of miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities in the foetus.

What if im taking fertility drugs?

Reflexology is not recommended when a client is undergoing an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) program and taking Clomid. Natural therapies like reflexology will balnce the body to produce a single ovum, which is contradictory to the drug therapy. With your specialists permission, Reflexology can commence after the course of drugs has been completed.

Can my husband or partner benefit?

Yes. Ideally both partners should be included in pre-conceptual reflexology. Both sperm and ova need to be healthy in order to conceive and hold a healthy pregnancy.

How many sessions are recommended or how often?

This is going to differ from one individual to the next, but ideally weekly sessions (or at least every other week) are recommended. The number of sessions will be based on how well you respond to the sessions.

How much does it cost?

In-home sessions will vary in length, and therefore cost. Please don't hesitate to email or call for more details on pricing, appointments, or any questions you might have.

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is an ancient natural therapy that uses subtle energy of the feet to balance and harmonise the being, so that he/she may attain and maintain health and wellbeing. Quite simply everything that happens in the being has a reflexion in the feet and everything that happens in the feet is relayed to the being.

Infertility and Reflexology

One in every ten couples are affected with infertility and in about a quarter of all cases, doctors can find no sure reason for infertility. However, it is a known fact that lifestyle can affect a couple's fertility. Smoking, alcohol, unhealthy diet, stress and anxiety can contribute to the condition. Anxiety and worry can create physical problems that prevent conception. Reflexology encourages a deep relaxation which alleviates stress and tension so that conception may take place.

Maternity and Reflexology

During your pregnancy, your body will go through significant changes, these changes will affect the emotional, hormonal and physiological balance of your body. Reflexology can help to alleviate or prevent discomfort arising from this imbalance and restore the body's equilibrium.

Research has shown that regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy can shorten the duration of labour, with subjects often requiring less pain-relief during the course of delivery.

Fertility reflexology promotes fertility by positively directing the flow of vital energy to where it is needed.

I believe my own success in treating women who are challenged by fertility comes from my abiding passion for my work combined with a long experience as a Reflexologist and intuitive connection to my clients mind, body and spirit.