Reflexology is very relaxing, soothing and comforting, and during pregnancy can be used to optimise the health and well-being of the pregnant mother. It impacts every individual in a different way but there is a growing body of evidence-based research showing that reflexology can reduce stress and anxiety which many expecting mothers can suffer with during their pregnancy. Reflexology can be used to ease many of the symptoms associated with being pregnant. The treatments will give you time to focus purely on yourself and your developing baby, your therapist is there to speak to you, offer general lifestyle advice and offer a listening ear. As a qualified maternity reflexologist I am trained to deal with every trimester of your pregnancy in the following way. During the three trimesters treatments may be offered at varying intervals, one to four weeks and you will be positioned in an upright position or on your side to ensure your comfort and safety.
Having received advanced training for Maternity Reflexology I feel that being able to support couples through pregnancy and beyond is a wonderful experience. Reflexology is used with the aim of optimising the health and wellbeing of the pregnant female. The Reflexology techniques used in Maternity Reflexology are adapted to meet the requirements of the client and are designed for the different stages of the pregnancy together with the common symptoms. Reflexology treatment plans therefore differ for each of the three trimesters of pregnancy. Reflexology can even be beneficial in the preparation for labour and during labour itself.
Reflexology can continue to be beneficial once the baby is born and can be extremely beneficial for new mums. Known as ‘Postnatal Reflexology’, techniques are incorporated to aim to encourage the production of breast milk; rebalance hormones and boost the immune system following birth. As it aids with relaxation, new mums can find Reflexology to be incredibly uplifting at this stage.
Reflexology can also be used on babies, even new born babies. It is known to have very nurturing and therapeutic effects. As the ligaments and muscles in babies’ feet have yet to develop fully, they tend to be far more receptive to the gentle touch of Reflexology
The aim of the treatment plan during your first trimester will be to provide a gentle and relaxing treatment, using a very gentle pressure. Reflexology can promote general well-being and a deep sense of relaxation and help with any of the symptoms you may experience in the first 13 weeks of your pregnancy such as morning sickness, fatigue, headaches, and constipation.
Treatments will continue to be gentle and relaxing focusing deep relaxation, and quality time for the expectant mother. During the second trimester a firmer pressure can be used to alleviate symptoms of constipation, improve quality of sleep, aid sinus problems, dizziness and symptoms of stress or anxiety you may or may not be experiencing.
As your baby continues to grow the increase in size may begin to cause strain on the mother’s body therefore during the third trimester the mother is more likely to suffer with backache or pelvic girdle pain, haemorrhoids and swollen ankles/fingers. Again, treatments will be gentle and relaxing but using a firmer touch and varying reflexology techniques these symptoms may respond well to reflexology. During the third trimester and post 37 weeks treatment intervals can be increased to once or twice a week if you wish again promoting relaxation and well-being preparing the mother for the birth.
One of the key benefits of maternity reflexology is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety in expectant mothers. Pregnancy can be a stressful and anxious time, with many changes and uncertainties to navigate. Reflexology can help to calm the mind and relax the body, allowing mothers to feel more balanced and in control. In addition to its stress-reducing effects, the maternity reflexology I carry out at my Cardiff practice may also help to alleviate common pregnancy discomforts such as back pain, swelling, and nausea. By promoting relaxation and addressing physical discomforts, reflexology can help expectant mothers to feel more comfortable and at ease during pregnancy.
Whilst providing general support during pregnancy, maternity reflexology can also be used in conjunction with prenatal care to address specific health concerns. For example, we may formulate a treatment plan to be used to help manage high blood pressure or to support your body during labour and delivery.
Maternity treatment can be particularly helpful for women who are experiencing common postnatal discomforts such as fatigue, stress, and difficulty sleeping. It may also be used to help manage any lingering pain or discomfort from the childbirth process.
In forming and enacting a treatment plan throughout the three trimesters, together we can also prepare to manage possible postpartum depression or to support the body as it adjusts to the hormonal changes that occur following childbirth.
If you live within the Cardiff area and are wondering if reflexology could assist you during your pregnancy and beyond, please get in touch with me; I very much look forward to hearing from you and showing what a wonderfully effective impact reflexology can have as a maternity treatment. Feel free to fill in a form and I will get back to you. Alternatively call or text me on +44 7852 485311, or book now.