As with almost any alternative therapy, you should consult your practitioner before you begin reflexology massage treatments, and you should be sure that your reflexologist has been properly trained and has experience working with pregnant women. As in the case with prenatal massage, some reflexologists prefer to wait until you are out of your first trimester before they will work on you. Be sure to speak with your practitioner and your reflexologist prior to any treatment. A good reflexologists will not work on you unless they’re sure that they won’t cause you or your baby any harm.

The basic theory behind reflexology is that pressing specific energy points, primarily in the feet, and in the hands, can simulate organs and boost energy flow. The idea is that this pressure allows blocked energy to flow freely, which increases blood flow to the corresponding part of your body.  Reflexologists often work the area between your ankle and heel to stimulate labor and contractions. Unless you’re packed and ready to head for the hospital, make sure that your reflexologist or, for that matter, any massage therapist you might see, avoids stimulating this area for any length of time.  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 can give you relief from some of your most persistent woes. These may include morning sickness, heartburn, swelling in your legs (if not due to preeclampsia), constipation, high blood pressure (again, as long as it appears without the other symptoms of preeclampsia), insomnia, bladder problems, mild cramping, and even hemorrhoids. In addition, reflexology seems to reduce emotional stresses, such as depression and anxiety. Reflexology may even be helpful after you give birth, some studies have shown it stimulates the production of milk.

There is no evidence that reflexology is unsafe during pregnancy, if it is carried out correctly by a qualified health professional or a qualified reflexologist who is experienced in treating pregnant women. If nothing else, the massage aspect is extremely relaxing, and that’s useful at any point during pregnancy.

Whether you need a spa treatment or relaxing massage, Foot Palace invites you to melt away your pain and stress today!