You may have heard about the amazing benefits of having Reflexology during pregnancy, there are numerous advantages for the pregnant woman as our bodies change so much throughout pregnancy, it’s no wonder we feel more aches and pains than usual.
Melissa Williamson, one of our specialist maternity therapists at The Bath Massage Company, explains more:
“Pregnancy Reflexology is a non-invasive, gentle therapy that can help to treat the whole body, not just the feet! And if, like many pregnant women, you don’t want a body massage,reflexology allows all these niggling ailments to melt away through a relaxing, therapeutic foot massage.
A session typically lasts 60 minutes during which time the client is sitting comfortably, supported with pillows. A full history of the client will be taken in order to address the main pregnancy related issues, as well as any other ongoing issues the client may be experiencing. As well as allowing the body the time to relax, the treatment will also encourage better circulation throughout the body and decrease any swelling or build of fluid that typically occurs during pregnancy. The benefits of pregnancy reflexology are vast, but common ailments which reflexology can help include:
Respiratory – during pregnancy it is common to experience rhinitis of pregnancy which makes it hard to breathe. By working the sinus reflex points on the feet, congestion can be reduced and kept under control.
Muscular – as the baby grows and pushes on the diaphragm, there is often discomfort in breathing and shortness of breathe. The reflex point for the diaphragm can be worked on to help soothe this discomfort.
Skeletal – as pregnancy hormones kick in, and as the body starts to change shape the bone structure is compromised. It is very normal to experience lower back pain and hip pain. By working the spinal reflex and the hip reflex on the foot the client can feel relief in these areas.
Neural – many pregnant mums experience sciatic pain often as a result of the piriformis muscle pushing against the nerve due to changes in the pelvic structure. This can be incredibly uncomfortable and can continue post pregnancy if not dealt with effectively.
Digestion – Pregnancy hormones cause the bowel muscles to relax, making it hard for them to work efficiently, and as the baby grows, room for all the organs is reduced, often causing digestive issues, mainly constipation. By working the reflex points for the stomach and small and large intestines better digestion can be encouraged.
Lymphatic – fluid build up and poor circulation can cause swelling especially in the legs and feet.
These points outline the benefits for prenatal reflexology, but pregnancy reflexology isn’t just for mums-to-be, it is a very effective post-natal treatment as the body is now being tested in a very different way, including possible breastfeeding, holding a new baby, pushing a pram, and feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. It is a wonderfully relaxing treatment, and can really help with fatigue, milk production, digestion and back problems, especially aches and pains from carrying and feeding baby.
It is not advised to have treatments before the second trimester, however, reflexology can help with nausea, fatigue and relaxation in the first trimester”
