Reflexology for Pregnancy and Labor

Our bodies are equipped with wonderful self-healing facilities, but these often fail to work properly because vital energy pathways are blocked due to the stresses and strains of life. Reflexology, an ancient form of healing, teaches that specific regions of the body called reflex zones (points in the feet, hands, and ears) are associated with particular organs, glands, and other parts of the body.

A reflexology treatment comes in the form of applied pressure, stretching, and movement. A reflexologist is able to find these deposits and blockages and break up patterns of stress, restoring balance and relieving tension. Reflexology treatments can also improve a patient's circulation and elimination—two very important factors in maintaining good health and well-being.

The physical, emotional, and mental changes of pregnancy can be overwhelming for some women. According to the National Center for Complimentary & Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and Suzanne Ezner, author of the Maternity Reflexology Manual, maternity reflexology has been effective in treating the following common ailments many women face during various stages of pregnancy:

• Morning sickness
• Lack of energy
• Pain and discomfort
• Digestive disorders
• Heartburn/indigestion
• Fatigue
• Swollen extremities
• Sore swollen breasts
• Backache
• Cramps
• Incontinence
• Inducing labor
• Aiding in infertility

Sound too good to be true? Maybe, but the fact is that many homeopathic and holistic practices are only now being studied for their effectiveness. Reflexology, along with acupuncture, has been readily accepted in European countries for some time, and many patients are now also finding success with it in the United States as well.