Reflexology - those who know

[knackered76]

In an attempt to make sure this baby doesn't go over I am starting a course of reflexology (am currently 36+4). I'm a bit skeptical but like a good foot massage anyway so not concerned about that! My dh on the otherhand isn't overly happy with me having it. I had some at 20 wks and my stomach was a mess for a whole week. If this happens again I will not have anymore. He's worried that something could happen to the baby if it made me react like that last time. Am I right in thinking the only thing it could do is put me into labour? Also any idea on the chances of that actually happening, should I pack my bag before just incase

Thank you for any knowledge you can sling my way about it . . . I am very much the ignoramus where holistic treatments are concerned!

I went every week up until my BFP and am gong to start going again next month. My midwife is perfectly happy for me to go and said that they have sometimes had women in my local maternity unit having reflex during labour.

Say to the therapist that when you've had it before it's given you a bad stomach and they should go easy on the areas that correspond. Personally this is the bit I'm looking forward to, she completely sorted out my mild IBS when I was going before!

As long as the person working on you knows you're pregnant (which at 36 weeks I'd imagine is fairly obvious) and so knows which areas to be gentle with/which oils to avoid then there is really a minimal risk.

Thank you, and yes the bump is hard to hide now

Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy!

i have been going for the past 4 weeks. i am nearly 40 weeks and no result ths far... it has been quite relaxing though and the baby seems to be kicking during the sessions.... really worried about being overdue, though... i think there are lots myths about reflexology use to induce labour... i am not convinced.

I'm doing it, too - my reflexologist is a midwife, and even she has said that it's not guaranteed it can bring on labour. What it does, though, is help you to relax, which can be a trigger - your body realises that it's OK to get going with labour. I'm 40+2 and find it difficult not be impatient at this stage!

She's also showing me some useful accupressure points that can be used when in labour to 'encourage' the uterus to empty itself.

It definitively helps with the swollen feet and ankles!

I'd say, do it, it's lovely and relaxing and will do you no harm, as long as you make sure your reflexologist knows what he/she is doing.