Reflexology for Conception and Pregnancy

Reflexology for Infertility and Sub-fertility

The Association of Reflexologists (AoR) believe that reflexology may be of great benefit to clients suffering from sub fertility. However, there is no scientific research to prove this, though it is thought that the reduction of stress may help with the success of the medical intervention.

By stimulating the parts of the feet relating to the reproductive organs, it can help couples who have been otherwise unable to conceive. It is beneficial in treating women’s complaints including pre menstrual syndrome, heavy and irregular periods, painful periods and some fertility problems.

Patients have reported feeling 100% more positive, relaxed, they sleep better, have improved sex drive, more regular cycles, better flow, less pain and a percentage of women are likley to successfully conceived within a course of treatment. Some of these women have suffered from conditions from polycystic ovaries, recurrent miscarriage, annovulation to dysmennorrhoea, unexplained infertility and hostile cervical mucous.

For many women, the stress and anxiety associated with failing to conceive can be overwhelming and the reflexology treatment can make them feel more positive and relaxed allowing them to deal with their fertility issues in a more positive way.

Reflexology is not a magic cure-all, it cannot guarantee a pregnancy, unblock fallopian tubes, treat chlamydia or cure endometrioses. It can however create a healthier environment for a possible pregnancy to occur by encouraging the body to work more efficiently.

It is suggested that a minimum of between six to eight treatments will be required depending on your body and how well it responds.

The Benefits of Reflexology for Fertility

Reflexology can prove to be a valuable part of any pre-conception programme to increase fertility by balancing all body systems, on both a physical and emotional level.

Reflexology can help place both partners in a more optimum condition to conceive by;

* Regulating the hormones.

* Improving ovary and reproductive function.

* Increasing the flow of blood to the uterus & increasing the thickness of the lining.

* Preventing the uterus form contracting.

* Creating better semen to improve the quantity and quality of embryos.

* Lessening the side effects of drugs used in IVF.

* Boosting the immune system.

* Helping throughout the pregnancy and minimises the likihood of miscarriage.

* Relaxing the patient and lessens their stress factors.

The Benefits of Reflexology during Pregnancy

Reflexology is one of the most popular complementary therapies used by women during pregnancy, having established its reputation and popularity by the effective results people experience. Trials have found that those receiving regular treatments during pregnancy tend to deliver closer to term, have shorter labours and are less likely to require medical intervention.

The benefits of Reflexology treatments throughout pregnancy which can include:

* Reducing and normalising high blood pressure
* Normalizing low blood pressure
* Elimination of oedema and reduced swelling in feet and ankles
* Prevention of heartburn
* Improved sleep quality
* Clearing headaches
* Relieving varicose veins
* Clearing pelvic congestion
* Improved lymphatic drainage
* Helping to aid digestion
* Oxygenating the baby by improving the blood flow within the whole body
* Helping the uterus and the baby's placenta.
* Helping to carry the baby to term
* Can be used to initiate labour if you are overdue, thereby reducing the need for medical induction at hospital

Reflexology can be stress relieving and comforting during labour in addition to being able to help to start an overdue labour, reduce pain, regulate breathing and stimulate efficient contractions.

Reflexology with its holistic approach can prove an effective therapy in helping clients to combat stress by:

• Identifying stressors and suggesting self-help to remove these or reduce the effects.
• Calming the mind
• Releasing muscular tension
• Promoting the release of serotonin – mood enhancer that also helps to promote sleep.
• Unblocking energy pathways
• Inducing extreme relaxation providing the best conditions for the body to heal itself.
• Helping to restore homeostasis.

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a form of 'complementary' therapy and involves a method of treatment using massage to reflex areas found in the feet and the hands.

Reflexology is a deeply relaxing and re-energising therapy. It is based on the principle that the feet form a mini-map of the body where all body systems can be accessed.

Congestion or tension in any part of the foot is held in the bone, soft tissue and fluids. By applying pressure to reflex points located in the feet (in some case the hands) crystalline deposits and tension can be dispersed relating to corresponding body tissues. The musculo-skeletal system relaxes, organs and glands are stimulated, and the blood and lymph circulation are improved so that released toxins can be eliminated, thus encouraging the body to heal itself.

Reflexology can help you to cope with stress on a physical, mental and emotional level. Energy is cleared from body tissues enabling the release of “negative energy”. Physical toxins and mental and emotional energy held in the body’s tissues can therefore be cleared. It works to restore health to the entire being. Anyone can benefit from the clearing brought about by a Reflexology treatment.

Whilst Reflexology works very well alongside conventional medecine, it should never be used in place of seeking medical advice. Reflexology does not treat or diagnose any specific medical disorder. Reflexologists are not qualified to diagnose and this is not the appropriate use of a Reflexology session. Your Reflexology treatments at The Reflex Clinic are all about creating balance. The treatment will work to clear your symptoms by restoring vitality to your entire being. The more you relax, the more this can happen.