Q.  Is it ok to have reflexology during pregnancy? Josie, Aberdeen

A. A woman’s body goes through the most amazing physical, emotional and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Reflexology is a gentle therapy which can be used safely during pregnancy to support a woman through the process, and at the same time, can help to relieve the many discomforts of pregnancy.

Treatment techniques are tailored to each particular stage of pregnancy, but all treatments focus on relieving any discomforts or minor ailments and on encouraging balance within the endocrine system. This is the system responsible for all the hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy which gives rise to a whole range of physical and emotional responses. Treatments also focus on relaxing and calming techniques for mother and baby.

 Some studies have shown that a course of reflexology helps a woman to have a better pregnancy and may shorten labour. (‘The Magic of Reflexology in Pregnancy’ by Dr.Gowrie Motha, Reflexions Dec 1994.

Once your due date has been reached and, with the permission of your maternity caregiver, priming of labour can be done to gently encourage the baby to begin birthing. This involves a combination of reflexology and acupressure points.

A post-natal reflexology treatment is not only very relaxing, but can also be helpful in encouraging the body’s own healing and in rebalancing the hormones and emotions.

Treatments are carried out in a comfortable semi - reclined position and involve pressure being applied to ‘reflex’ points on the feet.