Reflexology Pregnancy
The Benefits of Reflexology during Pregnancy
You have heard that reflexology during pregnancy can be a big help in dealing with many of the physical discomforts and are wondering whether all the claims are true. You are also concerned about whether it is safe for the baby and would like to know a little bit more about how exactly reflexology works. Well, you have come to the right place to get your answers.
Reflexology is an ancient form of healing which is becoming increasingly popular today. The idea behind reflexology is that there are certain reflex zones in the body that correspond with given organs and glands and so by applying pressure in certain places or by stretching the reflex zones you can help stimulate your overall health and well being. This is a particularly appealing idea when you consider all the aches and pains that accompany pregnancy. At a time when a woman is trying to not pop pill readily, reflexology promises a way to alleviate discomfort without any drug dependence.
The idea behind the reflexology treatment is that life’s many stresses create blocks and interfere with the body’s natural balance. By releasing these pressure points and blockages the body is allowed to go back to a natural state of restored equilibrium.
So, you should consider reflexology if you are struggling with morning sickness, digestive difficulties, swollen legs and arms, fatigue, heartburn, general discomfort and exhaustion. There is also reason to believe that reflexology can help deal with specific problems such as incontinence, cramps, back ache and soreness in the breasts. If your pregnancy goes past the due date you can also consider reflexology for a natural way of stimulating labor.
Reflexology holds a lot of promise for pregnant women and yet they hesitate to try it because of concerns about safety. Reflexology is safe as long as you choose to use a registered and licensed practitioner. A trained reflexologist will be able to assess what a pregnant woman needs and will also advise when it is best to avoid this form of treatment. In fact, many practitioners choose to not perform reflexology on women past their first 13 weeks of her pregnancy.
Many reflexology treatments center around the foot and by massaging and stretching different parts of the feet, a trained practitioner can help the pregnant woman’s body deal with the major hormonal and other physical changes. So, there is little reason to worry about any harm from a session of reflexology.
Having said this, it is important to emphasize that reflexology is a treatment that needs an educated, knowledgeable and skilled practitioner. It is not something one can learn on one’s own and be assured of the right results and ramifications. So, women considering using reflexology during pregnancy should be systematic in their search for a good reflexologist and only choose to use someone who inspires a feeling of confidence and comfort. Check for the licensing requirements in your state and make sure your reflexology practice adheres to these requirements. It is worthy being picky about your choice to avoid having to deal with any problems later on.
Pregnant women dealing with deep vein thrombosis, high blood pressure, potential risk for preeclampsia and those diagnosed with diabetes are advised to talk to their doctor before deciding to try reflexology during pregnancy. Also those who have recently had a fracture or have kind of injury on their foot should not get into a reflexology treatment.
Reflexology offers a great combination of a massage that also actually targets specific physical problems and is a very attractive package for pregnant women who have to deal with many small and large changes in their bodies.