Reflexology and massage treatments are fabulous to support you during pregnancy. They can relax you and help your wellbeing and just give you time to yourself in what can be an exciting but also stressful period in your life. So what treatments can you have and is it safe?
1st Trimester
Options are very limited, generally you will not be allowed any body treatments, massage or any invasive treatments that are product heavy. So no massages or facials in the 1st trimester. This is not because any of these treatments are unsafe, usually its because of Insurance limitations. The risk of miscarriage is sadly more common in the 1st trimester so Therapists simply aren't covered to provide services. Because I have done further Maternity Reflexology training I can offer reflexology in 1st trimester in certain cases, but I limit this to clients I am already treating and have to seek permission from my Insurance to do so. But, also most women don't really feel like a treatment in 1st trimester due to fatigue and nausea.
2nd Trimester
The doors have reopened and you can now have Reflexology and Massage with a Pregnancy trained Therapist. Also seated Indian Head Massage and Facials are back on the menu. The main considerations are positioning during your treatment to ensure you are comfortable, also pregnancy safe products must be used. Also, time to think about your growing bump and stretch marks. I do not touch your abdomen at all in my treatments but I can give advice on really good organic products you can use yourself on your bump.
3rd Trimester
You can continue with your massages and facials but reflexology really comes into its own to help support you while you prepare for your baby's arrival. Reflexology and Massage can aid relaxation, promote the release of tension, help improve mood and increase the feeling of wellbeing, all vitally important in those final weeks of your pregnancy. By coming to my calm, peaceful therapy room you have the chance to be at one with your baby, away from all the other pressures and stresses of your everyday life.
4th Trimester/Post Natal
It can be difficult to find the time once the baby arrives, but if possible it's really beneficial to have a post-natal treatment. Some women just need some 'me time' again to process this huge change in their life and allow their body to relax. If you have had a C-Section then remember this is a surgical procedure so you'll need to wait around 6 weeks before you can receive treatment.
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