Pregnancy is one of the most special times in a woman's life, but as your body goes through significant changes, it will affect the hormonal, emotional and physiological balance of your body. Treating you holistically, many factors will be discussed prior to the treatment and each session tailored to meet your individual needs.

                              

Reflexology

Fertility

The Association of Reflexologists believe that Reflexology can considerably help those who are having problems with their fertility. Although there is no substantiated research, they have suggested that up to 50% of couples find themselves conceiving within 6 months of starting their treatment.

Reflexology helps reduce stress and promotes hormonal balance, and by creating the environment possible in both body and mind, conception is more likely to occur.

There are few contraindications to receiving Reflexology treatments, and there is no evidence to suggest that it has a detrimental or negative effect on those undergoing a course of fertility treatment - in fact it can be most supportive by help relieving stress.

Pregnancy

Reflexology is a wonderful preventative and alleviating tool of many symptoms which occur in pregnancy, some of which are listed below.

  • Anaemia
  • Morning sickness
  • Appetite regulation
  • Backache
  • Blood pressure regulation
  • Constipation and a change in bowel movements
  • Anxiety
  • Haemorrhoids
  • Insomnia
  • Improves flexibility of the pelvic floor
  • Urinary tract problems
  • Oedema
  • Muscle tension and fatigue
  • Prevention of gestational diabetes
  • Prevention of episiotomy


Reflexology is considered safe in pregnancy, but listed below are a list of conditions where treatments should be avoided.

  • Pre-term labour (at any time before 37 weeks gestation)
  • Placenta previa (if grade II or III after 32 weeks gestation)
  • Hydroamnios
  • Placental abruption
  • Placental praevia
  • Pica syndrome
  • Bleeding
  • HELLP syndrome
  • Continuous bleeding
  • Deep vein thrombosis
  • Toxaemia (pre-eclampsia and eclampsia)


Like all Holistic Therapies, Reflexology should be avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy. 

Labour

Studies in the UK and Denmark have concluded that Reflexology can significantly speed up labour and reduce pain. In a UK trial, 37 pregnant women completed a course of 10 Reflexology treatments - for them the second stage of labour lasted an average of 16 minutes compared to the expected 1-2 hours. In a Danish study, 68 women received Reflexology instead of drugs during labour - 61% stated they experienced "outstanding" pain relief.

Reflexology during labour can also help -

  • Regulate contractions
  • Hyperventilation
  • Induction
  • Release retained placenta
  • Urination and bowel movements
  • Pain and relaxation
  • Backache
  • Regulate body temperature

Post partum

How post-natal Reflexology can help you as a new mother -

  • Relieve painful joints
  • Constipation and urination difficulties and pain
  • Backache
  • Perineal pain
  • Lactation
  • Fatigue
  • Post natal depression
  • Mastitis
  • Relaxation and better sleep

                               


Aromatherapy and Acupressure Massage

Pregnancy

Massage offers a great way to relax during pregnancy, and can help to ease aches and pains which often centre around the lower back area as postural changes take place in the body. The use of organic essential Aromatherapy oils during pregnancy increases the beneficial effects of massage as essential oils can help to aid relaxation, uplift the spirit and boost energy levels. Listed below are a number of benefits both Aromatherapy and Massage offers -

  • Eliminates of waste products through the lymphatic and circulatory system, which combats fatigue
  • Increases oxygen and nutrients to the cells of you and your baby
  • Stabilises your hormone levels
  • Increases the flexibility of your muscles
  • Aids sleep and relaxation
  • Helps skin elasticity and help prevent stretch marks
  • Relaxes muscles to improve rotation of breech presentation

With the exception of the use of certain essential oils, both Aromatherapy and Acupressure Massage are considered safe during pregnancy. However there are certain contraindications which are summarised below.

  • Heavy discharge
  • Contagious illness
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Unusual pain
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Pre-eclampsia
  • Threatened miscarriage
  • Early labour
  • Placental dysfunctions
  • Gestational diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Any malignant condition



Labour 
Massage during childbirth can also be an effective form of pain relief and comfort, and pre-labour can prepare and help loosen you pelvis. It also helps you and your birthing partner work together to encourage a natural, relaxed and easier labour.

Post partum

Aromatherapy and Acupressure Massage is wonderful in the hectic months following childbirth. Benefits include -

  • Easier breastfeeding and better milk production
  • Speedier healing and recovery after a Caesarean birth
  • Realignment of your pelvis
  • Relief from soreness and stiffness
  • Relaxation and better sleep

                               
                           

It is essential for you to let your midwife or GP know that you are recieving treatments. We will happily communicate and work alongside them and any medical treatment you may be receiving.

    It's your time... we'll make it perfect