Maternity
Frequently Asked Questions About Maternity Reflexology
What do you do when you are pregnant?
Reflexology in pregnancy during this very special and exciting time it is very important for both mum and baby. Some women are able to adjust to the hormonal changes easily some find it harder.
Reflexology is suitable for minor pregnancy conditions and is particularly good at easing stress, anxiety. It also gives you time to focus on yourself and baby whilst it aims to optimise both your physical and emotional health.
Weekly, fortnightly or monthly appointments are available, even a few sessions can help with stress, anxiety and relaxation.
Is reflexology safe during all trimesters of pregnancy?
Yes, maternity reflexology is safe throughout all stages of pregnancy, including the first, second, and third trimesters.
At Karen Jones Reflexology, every session is tailored to your specific week of gestation and health history. All treatments focus on supporting your body’s changing needs, lowering stress levels, and promoting deep relaxation in a safe, comfortable, and fully supported environment.
Can maternity reflexology help relieve common pregnancy symptoms like swelling and insomnia?
Yes, maternity reflexology may help ease common pregnancy discomforts by improving circulation and balancing the nervous system. Regular treatments may help to reduce fluid retention and swelling (oedema) in the feet and ankles. By triggering the body's natural relaxation response, reflexology also helps lower stress levels, alleviate lower back pain, and improve overall sleep quality.
What is priming for labour reflexology, and when can I start it?
Priming for labour reflexology involves using specific reflex points to help prepare your body for childbirth by encouraging deep relaxation and hormonal balance. These specialised treatments can safely begin from 37 weeks of pregnancy onwards. While reflexology will not force labour if your body is not ready, it may help with anxiety and stimulates the endocrine system helping to create the optimal conditions for labour to commence naturally.
This study showed how reflexology in pregnancy significantly reduced pain during labour and reduced the length of the first stage of labour.Valiani M et al (2010) Reviewing the effect of reflexology on pain and outcomes of the labour of primiparous women, Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research 15 Dec p302-31
Research has shown that reflexology throughout pregnancy can help to speed up and shorten labour, by Dr Gowri Motha - " The Gentle Birth Method".
How are maternity reflexology sessions adapted for comfort in the later stages of pregnancy?
During later trimesters, maternity reflexology sessions are fully adapted to ensure maximum safety and physical comfort. You will never be asked to lie flat on your back. Instead, you will be comfortably semi-reclined or side-lying on a heated treatment couch, fully supported by pillows and soft blankets to prevent any strain on your lower back or abdomen.
Post Pregnancy
After pregnancy you may be suffering with a change or drop in your hormones, experiencing exhaustion and a lack of sleep. Or maybe recovering from a difficult labour, or feeling totally overwhelmed especially if its your first baby. Reflexology is a deeply relaxing and calming that can help restore your emotions, sleep patterns, and help with breastfeeding. It also very important to look after yourself, whilst giving you some valuable time to yourself.