Obstetrics is the branch of medicine which deals with the care of women during pregnancy and childbirth.

Recently the idea of pain free childbirth has been gaining recognition, largely due to evidence, seen by midwives, of increasing numbers of labouring mothers who, having benefited from preparation for the birth with hypnosis arrive in the labour ward in a calm and relaxed state. Indeed there are now numerous stories telling of tetchy consultants wanting to send women home, with the threat that ‘they will know when they are in labour’ but subsequently discovering that the patient is indeed well on her way to deliver their baby as nature intended. More and more midwives are now training to utilise hypnotic techniques to support women through the experience of childbirth, but the field of obstetrics is still strewn with judgemental ideas, perpetrated by those, who should perhaps know better! ‘More women should endure the pain of childbirth because anaesthetic drugs undermine the mother’s bond with her baby’, said Dr Denis Walsh, associate professor in midwifery at Nottingham University (as reported in Femail 13th July 2009).  

A Maternity Reflexologist has undergone specific training in using reflexology as a natural therapy; to support pre-conception, pregnancy, labour and throughout the postnatal period. So women who are considering or trying to get pregnant, have infertility issues, polycystic ovary syndrome, and who are undergoing IVF are ideal candidates for Reflexology. Reflexology is considered a safe therapy for all ages and at all stages of a persons life. However you may find that some therapists prefer not to treat you in the first 3 months of pregnancy. This is purely a personal decision on their part and should not be taken as an indication that Reflexology is not safe at this time. There are great benefits to be had from treatment in the early stages, particularly for morning sickness and allowing the body to adapt to its new role.

The power of touch and relaxation is amazing. It can boost our immune system, help with our response to pain and increase our feelings of well-being. To alleviate the aches and pains of pregnancy and prepare for a natural labour, relaxation is invaluable.

Boarding a flight means you will soon be shown what to do in case of an emergency such as where the exits are and how to put on your oxygen mask.  Despite your natural instinct to put an oxygen mask on your child first, you will be asked to put on your own and then one on your infant.  

The same principle can apply to being a new Mum.  There are instances when attending to yourself first, equips you better to attend to your baby.  New Mums often find themselves bereft of the basics, such as sleep and social contact.  It can be an isolating, exhausting experience.