Reflexology is a natural healing method, which uses pressure points, touch or massage in certain locations on your hands, feet or ears with the goal of improving the health. Although rigorous scientific data in reflexology is lacking, there is some evidence that reflexology, like other forms of massage, promotes relaxation, and relaxation in turn can help promote lactation in breastfeeding mothers.
REFLEXOLOGY
Reflexology is used with the goal of preventing medical problems, reducing pain and promoting relaxation. Small studies have shown success using reflexology for the treatment of chest pain, kidney stones, nervous exhaustion, bed wetting and kidney function, according to United Kingdom's alternative medicine resource, Internet Health Library. On the other hand, these studies have typically not been rigorous clinical trials -- some didn't even include placebo groups, raising the question of whether the effect was a placebo effect. Nevertheless, reflexology and massage methods are considered effective relaxation methods during labor, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
MATERNITY REFLEXOLOGY
A specialized branch of reflexology, maternity reflexology, attempts to help women from conception and fertility, to pregnancy and labor, through post-natal concerns including breastfeeding. Registered nurse and reflexologist Rachel Kelly claims that reflexology assists with conception by reducing toxins in your body, improving your hormonal balance and helping all bodily functions run optimally. Again, these claims have not been proven scientifically. In addition to supporting successful breastfeeding, Kelly suggests reflexology also provides relief from pregnancy's discomforts, shortens labor time, improves recovery time and reduces your likelihood of postpartum depression.
EXPERT INSIGHT
Research published in "Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery" in 2000 discussed reflexology as a effective tool in relaxing mothers, allowing a more nurtured body, mind and spirit, which in turn helps establish and maintain lactation. Additionally, therapeutic reflexologist and postpartum masseuse Laura Thomas cites a study in which milk volume increased by 88 percent for participants who received 10 therapeutic reflexology treatments. More research is needed to confirm reflexology's benefits regarding milk production, but it is well known that a new mother's relaxation -- whatever the source -- promotes lactation.
LOCATION
According to reflexology, the point corresponding with your breasts is located on the soles and tops of your feet. On your soles, apply pressure first between your largest toe and the toe next to it. Allow a slight space below your toes, and apply pressure below your three middle toes. Stop where your foot begins to arch. For the top of your foot, apply pressure from one side of your foot all the way across to the other side of your foot below all five toes.