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Maternity Reflexology
Siobhan Forsyth, Member of the Association of Reflexologists

Reflexology is the technique of applying gentle pressure to reflex points on the feet (or hands) to bring about a state of deep relaxation, stimulate the body's own healing process, and help a person return to a state of balance and well-being. It aims to release blockages and improve the flow of energy in the body by working through 'zones' (like the meridians an acupuncturist works on). Reflexology has roots in Ancient Egypt, China, Japan and India.

Reflexology can provide relaxation, pain and stress relief, stimulation of all body systems eg the immune and digestive systems, and balance for the mind, body, emotions and spirit. Most people find reflexology an enormously comforting and nurturing therapy.

In the field of fertility, pregnancy and birth, reflexology can be applied as a preparation for conception, during pregnancy and birth, and beyond. Regular reflexology treatments can help to maintain balance and well-being during these stages. A major benefit is the balancing of the endocrine system - the set of glands that produce our hormones (chemical messengers). Hormones play a key role in fertility and pregnancy. The fact that many midwives now incorporate reflexology into their practice speaks for its efficacy.

Pre-Conception
Reflexology has a good reputation with helping couples who wish to conceive. It is desirable to treat both partners to balance and relax them, and get them into an optimum state for conception. As well as requiring healthy sperm and ova, there is a need for mental and emotional preparation. The couple may examine their lifestyle in terms of sleep, diet, stress, exercise, smoking, drinking and so on.

Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings a number of significant changes, and reflexology can help to restore balance and harmony. You might find you're suddenly constipated or getting acid reflux, or experiencing mood swings or backache. It goes without saying that medical attention must be sought for serious complications of pregnancy, but reflexology can help you to manage ailments such as: constipation, heartburn, symphysis pubis pain, backache, rib pain, morning sickness, leg cramps, raised blood pressure, headaches, tiredness and sleeplessness, mood swings. Maternity reflexology enhances health and well-being as well as creating a wonderful caring environment for the mother and Incoming Soul.

Delivery
In a post term situation, a skilled reflexologist can help to prime (prepare for) labour. Many post term women who are experiencing a problem free pregnancy respond well to this, although ultimately the baby decides when it is ready to come. Not even medical induction is guaranteed to succeed! Reflexologists may attend births to assist their client with pain control, relaxation, and emotional and psychological support.

After Birth
A weekly session can help the mother adjust after giving birth. Reflexology may encourage lactation and help with breast tenderness or mastitis, and can help the body return to normal function following delivery. It can also help the new parents make the emotional and psychological adjustments to parenthood. Your new baby can benefit from reflexology too, and your reflexologist may show you some simple, comforting moves to help with problems such as a colicky tummy, constipation, poor feeding or distress.

Research Into The Effects Of Reflexology On Labour
'Thirty-seven of 64 pregnant women, who were offered free reflexology, completed the set course of ten treatments. The effects of reflexology on labour outcomes were perceived as outstanding. Some had labour times of only 2 hours, some 3 hours. The 20 - 25 year olds had an average time of first stage labour of 5 or 6 hours. The 26 - 30 year olds seemed to have the longest labours. In total, the average first stage was 5 hours, second stage 16 minutes, and third stage 7 minutes. This is compared to textbook figures of 16 to 24 hours' first stage, and, 1 to 2 hour's second stage.' (Dr. Gowri Motha and Dr. Jane McGrath)

Siobhan Forsyth runs her own practice in Egham (Surrey), and offers daytime and evening appointments

Tel: 01784 431768
Mob: 07765 890466
Web: www.at-one.uk.net

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