Pregnant? Can I have Alternative Therapy?

Are you pregnant and hoping to enhance this experience by enjoying some complimentary therapy? You may have benefited from alternative therapies in the past and want to continue into your pregnancy but feel concerned about their safety at this time? Pregnancy is a special and thrilling time, and enjoying your pregnancy is a key part of looking after your and your babies' well being. Pregnancy is a natural condition and our bodies have the wherewithal to cope with all the astonishing developments within us, but for some women it is a difficult time. If you are struggling with aspects of your pregnancy it is important to recognize that this is not your fault. Becoming a mother is amazing but it can be difficult too. The stresses and strains of life and the remarkable changes taking place within your body can leave you feeling exhausted and worried.

Throughout your life your physical and emotional health is vitally important for leading a well balanced, fulfilling life. When this is ignored it is all too easy to find the frustrating and stressful experiences mounting and becoming overwhelming. All of a sudden fun, laughter and the excitement of being a mum-to-be can seem like a thing of the past. One popular way to restore this balance is through complementary therapies. The use of such therapies can also benefit you and your baby when you become pregnant. There are many treatments that are safe during pregnancy such as hypnotherapy, acupuncture, homeopathy and reflexology. It is important to check the qualifications of any therapist you see and be sure to tell them you are pregnant so the treatment can be modified to you and your babies needs.

Reflexology is a well-established complementary therapy that has been used in various forms around the world since ancient times. Reflexology is a non-invasive treatment that focuses on pressures points in the feet and hands. The perceptive, trained hands of a reflexology practitioner can identify tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet. By working on these areas, generally using hands only, the therapist can help to balance the whole body. Reflexology is a wonderfully relaxing experience. This specialized foot massage can help your body to handle the stresses of everyday life and cope with many of the common ailments associated with pregnancy. For example fatigue, mood swings, nausea and vomiting, swollen ankles and pelvic and back pain.

Now picture yourself slipping off your shoes and sitting back to enjoy an hour of blissful relaxation. This is a time for you to convey positive, relaxed, tranquil emotions to your baby. People confirm that a reflexology massage feels wonderful and can also provide time to breathe and enjoy your pregnancy.

During labour it self, it can be utilised for relaxation and pain relief. In the post-natal period, it is often brilliant for breastfeeding problems such as maintaining or increasing milk supply, postnatal depression and general relaxation. Research has shown that women who have regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy have far shorter labour than those who do not (on average one third as long). Reflexology is continuing to establish its reputation and regard through the positive results people experience. Empiric knowledge and research studies have demonstrated that those receiving regular reflexology during pregnancy have enhanced pregnancies and shorter birthing with less intervention.

The unborn baby also appears to enjoy Reflexology and it is common for babies to become very lively during a treatment. In some cases the therapist will be able to feel the baby growing - first a little like a tadpole, and then at times a bulge growing on the inner side of your foot, above the heel. Your feet really can reflect what is going on in your body particularly at this exciting time.

Reflexology is great in pregnancy because all you need to do is ease off your shoes and socks and sit back, usually in a recliner chair or on a couch. There is no need to worry about undressing or lying flat as the therapist really just needs your feet so you can easily find a comfortable position that suits all three of you The reflexology therapist, you and your baby!

The history of this specialized holistic massage shows how complementary therapies improved people's lives well before western medicine developed. The term "alternative therapy" is often used for treatments of this kind and this may be misleading. It could suggest that reflexology is a substitute or alternative to traditional medical care but it is not. It can compliment traditional medicine with great success but not be complete replacement. The treatment is not a replacement for medical care and advice from your health care provider should always be sought when you have health concerns.

If you choose to begin any alternative therapies during pregnancy you and your therapist will decide whether you wish to begin during the first three cautious months of pregnancy. At this stage, many women worry about the risk of miscarriage. Even though the aim of reflexology and many other holistic therapies is simply to bring about balance, it would be all too easy for a mum to feel that the treatment may have contributed in some way if the pregnancy ended during this time. To avoid doubt, many therapists ask mums-to-be to get back in touch after the first three months. However, there are practitioners who are experienced or who specialize in maternity treatments that may be willing to treat at this time, so please do talk to them

Every woman's pregnancy is unique and you are your own best specialist. We all need guidance and support at this exciting time and it is important to seek out care that benefits you and your baby. Relaxing and looking after your physical and mental health may help you to enjoy this wonderful time and promote a positive, healthy and calm environment for your baby. It is an exciting journey to becoming a mum!

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Many people find complimentary therapies very beneficial and enjoyable for adults, children and babies alike. If you are concerned about you or your child's health please do consult your health care provider.

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