Need an excuse to kick your feet up and relax? It’s hard to think of anything dreamier when you’re pregnant than enjoying a calming reflexology massage —not to mention that some limited research indicates the practice may benefit pregnant women.
Here’s some background about what reflexology is and whether it’s safe for you and your baby-to-be.
What is reflexology?
Reflexology is an unproven therapy based on the notion that areas on the feet and hands are linked to other systems and organs. It's used to treat symptoms in many parts of your body by applying fingertip pressure to specific areas, your feet primarily and sometimes on your hands as well.
The idea is that this pressure allows blocked energy to flow freely, which increases blood flow to the corresponding part of your body, bringing relaxation and healing. (Oh, and it feels good too!)
How does reflexology help during pregnancy?
Reflexology is often used to soothe the aches and pains in your back and joints that are taking a beating from your growing belly. And some preliminary studies indicate that it can reduce lower-back and pelvic pain as well as stress.
The technique also purportedly may relieve pregnancy symptoms including morning sickness, heartburn, swelling in the legs (if it's not due to preeclampsia), constipation, high blood pressure (again, as long as it's not related to preeclampsia), insomnia, bladder problems, mild cramping and hemorrhoids. Reflexology is even claimed to be able to help with depression and anxiety. But the effects of reflexology on any of these conditions has not been scientifically proven.
Is reflexology safe during pregnancy?
As with any new therapy during pregnancy, remember to consult your practitioner before you begin reflexology treatments. Make sure that your reflexologist has been properly trained; several organizations offer reflexology certifications, but you'll also want to check with your doctor for recommendations.
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Don’t forget to mention that you’re pregnant before your session and ask your reflexologist how much experience he or she has working with pregnant women.
It’s worth noting that research has not shown any link between certain acupressure points and miscarriage or early labor. And evidence that massaging specific pressure points can trigger contractions is inconclusive.
Still, since the science is limited, it’s best to avoid any risk by steering clear of these pressure points (like the one between your ankle bone and heel) entirely. As in the case with prenatal massage, some reflexologists prefer to wait until you are out of your first trimester before they'll work on you.
Keep in mind that there are certain complications for which reflexology is specifically not recommended. Talk to your practitioner and your reflexologist; good reflexologists will not work on you unless they're sure that they won't cause you or your baby any harm.
For most pregnant moms, however, reflexology is a totally blissful way to soothe your sore and tired tootsies.
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