Reflexology for Lab our
As a Reflexologist, I get a lot of enquiries from pregnant ladies 38 weeks onwards, desperate for their baby to arrive and asking if reflexology can help? Here is some information to help anyone considering reflexology in their pregnancy…
Can Reflexology Start Labour? Only your body can start labour, as it is a hormone process. However, reflexology can help reverse the negative impact that stress and anxiety can have on this process. One of the main hormones for labour is oxytocin, also known as the love hormone. The oxytocin effect can be reduced when stress hormones get in the way, slowing down the start of labour and contractions. Many mums are understandably anxious about the arrival of their baby, or perhaps feeling stressed about juggling families and being uncomfortable during the birth. It’s really important to take some time to do something that’s deeply relaxing. Reflexology can help with this and is also very beneficial for supporting oxytocin levels due to the positive human touch and stimulation it provides.
Most women come for reflexology from around 37 weeks onwards for weekly sessions which has the most beneficial effect. However, a study showed that reflexology in early labour can be useful to decrease the pain intensity as well as duration of labour (Midwifery unit of Shahid Beheshti Medical University, Tehran).
Many women often report that they also found that reflexology helped minor pregnancy related ailments such as aches, pains and problems sleeping. Some acupressure points around the feet and ankles are contraindicated in pregnancy until you are at 37 weeks gestation onwards, it’s important that your therapist is trained and knowledgeable of these areas.
When having reflexology in late pregnancy, it is important to remain at an incline and not lie flat on your back in the supine position. This is because the pressure may compress a large vein called the inferior vena cava causing potential health problems for mum and baby. If you want to book pregnancy reflexology around your due date, it is recommended to book in advance to ensure your reflexologist can see you at the right time!
Sometimes the relaxation and the oxytocin effect of reflexology can seem to start labour, however this is never guaranteed as your body and baby needs to be ready for labour to start naturally.
REFLEXOLOGY AT HOME:
Your hands have the same reflex points as your feet and are much easier to reach for some hand reflexology. If you are feeling stressed or anxious, applying pressure to the solar plexus reflex point in both hands for 30-60 seconds each when needed, along with taking some slow, deep breaths can help. This point is found on the central upper part of the palm, just under the natural crease under the fingers as you fold your hand down.
Author, Emily Laver, MAR ITEC, Ametrine Reflexology, Tel. 07717 783728
Editor, Helen McClorry, Babies on board Magazine.
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