Can Reflexology Induce Labour?
Reflexology can help to bring on our labour naturally and using meditations and visualisations around your body softening can also be very useful.
So how does Reflexology work?
Reflexology works on various different levels, including a deeply physical level, as well as an emotional and energetic level. The fundamental idea behind Reflexology is that the feet serve as a mirror to the body, and by applying pressure to specific points on the feet, we can effectively stimulate various corresponding parts of the body. After reaching 38 weeks of pregnancy, we can apply Reflexology techniques to specifically target and stimulate the uterus and ovary reflexes, as well as enhance the production of Oxytocin, which can help to naturally initiate labor.
It is important to recognize that the mind and body are inextricably linked; therefore, to suggest that we can work on one aspect without influencing the other is simply not feasible. Reflexology is recognized as a profoundly relaxing treatment that positively impacts the nervous system, assisting the body in transitioning from the sympathetic nervous system, characterized by heightened energy and a ‘fight or flight’ response, into a calm and relaxed parasympathetic state. When we achieve a parasympathetic state, our cortisol (stress hormone) levels significantly decrease, allowing for other regions of our brain to be stimulated, which encourages essential processes such as rest, healing, sleep, and natural bodily functions.
In the context of pregnancy and labour, it becomes evident that our bodies are not inclined to bring a baby into the world if we are operating under a 'fight or flight' state, as we know working closely with hypnobirthing, the brain perceives that there is a threat or danger present. Instead, our bodies need to be in a relaxed, safe environment. This explains why many women find that they can progress smoothly with their labour while at home, but upon arriving at a hospital—often overwhelmed by bright lights and loud noises—experience a halt in their contractions. This sudden change can be a shock to the nervous system, which instinctively seeks a safe, dark, and quiet environment to facilitate the birth of the baby. You can learn more about hypnobirthing with Claire here.
What can you do?
Book in a session or two with a Reflexologist who specialises in pregnancy and labour. Recent studies have shown that women who had regular Reflexology sessions throughout their pregnancy had a significantly shorter first stage of labour as well as decreased pain throughout.
You can also book in with me, Claire at Tutum Birthing for a guided meditation hour where we begin to prepare the body for birth using visualisations such as the cervix being ready and baby being ready for birth. This session is £50 for one hour online with me. In person we can also use the rebozo scarf and meditation combined to work together to bring labour on if your baby is ready.