Pregnancy is a special and exciting time, and enjoying your pregnancy is an important part of looking after your and your babies’ well being. Pregnancy is a natural condition and our bodies have the resources to cope with all the wonderful developments within us, but for some women it is a difficult time. If you are struggling with aspects of your pregnancy it is important to acknowledge that this is not your fault as although becoming a mother is amazing it can be difficult too. The stresses and strains of life and the dramatic changes taking place within your body can leave you feeling exhausted and anxious.

Your physical and emotional well being is vitally important for leading a well balanced life. When this is neglected it is all too easy to find the frustrating and stressful experiences growing and becoming overwhelming. All of a sudden fun, laughter and the excitement of being a mum-to-be can seem like a thing of the past. One popular way to redress this balance is through complementary therapies. There are many treatments that are safe during pregnancy such as hypnotherapy, acupuncture, homeopathy and maternity reflexology. It is important to check the qualifications of any therapist you see and be sure to tell them you are pregnant so the treatment can be tailored to you and your babies needs.

Reflexology is a well established complementary therapy that has been used in various forms around the world since ancient times. Reflexology is a noninvasive treatment that focuses on pressures points in the feet and hands. The sensitive, trained hands of a reflexologist can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet. By working on these areas, generally using hands only, the reflexologist can help to balance the whole body. Reflexology is a wonderfully relaxing experience. This specialized foot massage can help your body to manage the stresses of everyday life and cope with many of the common ailments associated with pregnancy, such as fatigue, mood swings, nausea and vomiting, swollen ankles and pelvic and back pain.

So just imagine easing off your shoes and sitting back to enjoy an hour of blissful relaxation. A time for you to convey positive, relaxed, tranquil emotions to your baby. A reflexology massage not only feels wonderful but also provides you with time to breathe and enjoy your pregnancy.

During labour itself, it can be used for relaxation and pain relief. Postnatally, it is excellent for breastfeeding problems such as maintaining or increasing milk supply, postnatal depression and general relaxation. Research has shown that women who have regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy have far shorter labour than those who don't (on average one third as long). Reflexology is continuing to establish its reputation and popularity by the positive results people experience. Empiric knowledge and research studies have demonstrated that those receiving regular reflexology during pregnancy have better pregnancies and have shorter birthing with less intervention.

The unborn baby also appears to enjoy Reflexology and it is common for babies to become very active during a treatment. In some cases the therapist will be able to feel the baby growing - first like a little tadpole, and then you may be able to see a bulge growing on the inner side of your foot, above the heel. Your feet really can reflect what's going on inside your body especially at this exciting time.

Reflexology is great in pregnancy because all you need to do is ease off your shoes and socks and sit back, usually in a recliner chair or on a couch. There is no need to worry about undressing or lying flat as the reflexololgist really just needs your feet so you can easily find a comfortable position that suits all three of you… the reflexologist, you and your baby!

The history of this specialized holistic massage shows how complementary therapies enhanced people's lives well before western medicine developed. The term “alternative therapy” is often used for treatments of this kind and this may be misleading. It could suggest that reflexology is a replacement or alternative to traditional medical care but it is not. This specialized holistic massage can compliment traditional medicine with great success. The treatment is not a replacement for medical care and advice from your health care provider should always be sought when you have health concerns.

If you choose to begin any complementary therapies during pregnancy you and your therapist will decide whether you wish to begin during the first three tentative months of pregnancy. At this stage, many women worry about the risk of miscarriage. Even though the aim of reflexology and many other holistic therapies is simply to bring about balance and promote well being, it would be all too easy for a mum to feel that the treatment may have contributed in some way if the pregnancy ended during this time. To avoid doubt, many therapists invite mums-to-be to get back in touch in the second trimester. However, there are practitioners who are experienced or who specialize in maternity treatments that may be willing to treat at this time, so please do talk to them

Every woman’s pregnancy is unique and you are your own best expert. We all need advice and support at this exciting time and it is important to seek out whatever benefits you and your baby. Relaxing and looking after your well being may help you to enjoy this wonderful time and promote a positive, healthy and calm environment for your baby. Its an exciting journey to becoming a mum!


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Many people find complimentary therapies very beneficial and enjoyable for adults, children and babies alike. If you are concerned about you or your child's health please do consult your GP.

I am a busy mum and a reflexology practitioner. Find out more about reflexology.