Written By: Anusha Iyengar | Updated : November 2, 2015 6:54 PM IST
I am 8 months pregnant and experience a lot of swelling and pain in my feet. I am also constantly stressed out and irritated. I thought of going to a spa for a reflexology treatment as I've heard it's very relaxing. But my best friend asked me not to go for it during pregnancy. What should I do?
Whether you should get foot spas during pregnancy or not is a hot debate among experts. While some doctors believe that getting a foot massage is completely safe, there are some that believe that it could induce labor. It is advisable that you consult your doctor before taking an appointment at your spa, especially when you are at your last stage of pregnancy. Here are few things that you must know about reflexology during pregnancy.
What is reflexology?
Reflexology is applying pressure on certain points of your feet and hands to relieve you of stress and help you relax.. Stimulating these reflexes properly can solve many health problems in a natural way, a type of preventative maintenance. It is an advance in the health field though many confuse it with a massage. The Egyptians practiced this method since 2330 B.C.
The benefits of reflexology
Should you get one during pregnancy
Though reflexology relieves you from pain naturally and relaxes you, it is highly recommended that you do not get one if you're pregnant. Reason being there are certain points on your feet, that if applied pressure on, can induce premature labor. The nerve endings in our foot are connected to our central nervous system because of which the pressure applied has a direct effect on our upper body. Even if you want to get the treatment while you're pregnant, consult your doctor or a specialist before going ahead with it.
Image Source: Shutterstock
