Reflexology is a very safe and nurturing modality when given by a qualified practitioner. Mothers and babies will both reap the benefits of this relaxing form of bodywork during the postpartum period.
Consider utilizing Reflexology for general aches and pains after childbirth and sleep loss to improve circulation and reduce swelling and to aid in breastfeeding. Reflex areas for every part of the body will be stimulated in a professional session, creating an overall sense of well being, calm and relaxation body-wide.
Reflexology for Postpartum Wellness
New mothers may seek out a reflexologist shortly after giving birth to encourage healing. In some cases, Reflexology may be appropriate in the maternity recovery room before mom and baby have left the hospital. As a general rule of thumb, Reflexology is safe in the newly postpartum client with the exception of those suspected of having blood clots or bleeding disorders. The modality is known to improve circulation and can be wonderful to abate swelling and edema but it is strongly recommended to check with the maternity care provider first.
In addition to helping with usual aches and pains the body is experiencing after labor and birth, Reflexology can be a great tool for breastfeeding moms. Naturally relaxing, Reflexology can help to promote milk supply and enhance bonding for mother and baby.
Reflexology After Cesarean Surgery
Reflexology is very comforting for a mom recovering from a C-section. Sessions during the first weeks after a Cesarean are aimed at helping with pain management, improving bowel functions, as well as reducing swelling and fluid retention. In several cases, working with maternity clients within hours of surgery has provided comfort during symptoms of shaking and chills as the epidural wears off. While mom is attending to baby, the practitioner can be working on the woman’s feet, hands or ears, encouraging the love and bonding hormones that are essential for early breastfeeding.
In the months following this major abdominal surgery, the reflexologist can help mom improve sensation to the scar site without ever touching the actual abdomen. Some women find this an important part of the healing process as they return to their normal routines.
Finding the Right Maternity Reflexologist
Many reflexologists are receiving additional training and gaining further experience in the specialized field of Maternity Reflexology. These practitioners work frequently with women from preconception through their pregnancy and into postpartum. Some in fact only work with women planning to conceive, expecting women, or young mothers and their babies.
Some questions to ask a potential practitioner:
- Where did you receive your training?
- Do you have training or experience working with maternity clients?
- Are you planning to take time off around my estimated due month?
- Can you demonstrate and recommend some points that my partner and I can work on between sessions?
In an ideal situation, the reflexologist would have at least 100 hours of training of Reflexology-only education that has taken place in a hands-on setting. Experience working with maternity clients will be helpful, especially if the mother endured a surgery, trauma or has a postpartum medical condition.
Sources:
- The author's experience as a Maternity Reflexologist and professional Birth Doula since 2004.
- Zhang, J., "Foot Reflexology in the Treatment of Hypogalactia" 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report. Beijing : China Reflexology Association, pages 66-67.
- Reflexology and Women's Health by Amy Kreydin, Suite101.com, June 2008.
- The Gentle Birth Method, Gowri Motha, Karen Swan MacLeod, Thorson's 2004.
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