Maternity Reflexology, how is it different? 
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.
Dr Melanie Jones (PhD) has also worked with women who are considering or trying to get pregnant, have infertility issues, polycystic ovary syndrome, and who are undergoing IVF.
Dr Melanie Jones (PhD) trained with Moshe Kruche (see links page for website).

The ideal is to have some reflexology throughout the pregnancy
"some studies have shown that women who received Reflexology during pregnancy have a shorter more comfortable Labour" (J. Wright, Hamlyn, 2003 Reflexology and Acupressure.)

If cost is an issue but you still want regular treatments then please ask about a Maternity Reflexology priced package.

Reflexology may help your maternity problems?
Many pregnancy associated problems can be the result of hormonal changes, vitamin and mineral deficiencies and redistribution of weight. Reflexology aims to help relieve these problems and restore and maintain a healthy balanced body and mind by helping to relieve stress and tension, improve nerve function, blood supply and strengthen the immune system.
Maternity reflexology may also be useful for the following problems: morning sickness {where we would work for example reflexes for the digestive system, oesophagus reflex, endocrine system}, heartburn, constipation, anaemia, gestational diabetes, carpal tunnel, changes in appetite, later stage backache and aching legs and feet, fatigue, anxiety, hyperventilation, haemorrhoids, dizziness and pelvic floor straightening.

Ingham Method Reflexology should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment but it offers a safe non-invasive method of therapy at all stages of pregnancy even within the first 3 months.
Dr Melanie Jones recommends that all clients tell their caregiver (e.g. consultant, doctor or midwife) that they are going to have Maternity Reflexology. This is because responsible Maternity Reflexologist's prefer to work within an orthodox medical framework.
Only with the caregivers permission would a Maternity Reflexologist work reflexes for the following problems; blood pressure regulation (excluding pre-eclampsia) diarrhoea, persistent headache, fluid retention and cystitis.  

Carpal Tunnel
Melanie has had many Maternity Reflexology clients and has particular experience working with clients with carpal tunnel syndrome (which is numbness, weakness, pain caused by pressure on the median nerve at the wrist) with some interesting effects,
 "even with just 10 minutes of Hand Reflexology the Carpal Tunnel went away and didn't come back" Mrs L.W. NHS Nurse. Aberdeen
 

Foot Reflexology.
Some Reflexologists believe that the reflex areas change during pregnancy. As the body organs move up in the rib cage to accommodate the baby the reflex areas on the feet and hands move accordingly.
Can you look at the inside edge of your ankle. Have you noticed any lumps or bumps appear since you became pregnant? Is there any distinct puffiness in this area? If so please let Melanie know as we are interested in documenting this for a pilot research project.

Working on your own feet while you are pregnant is really difficult (as they are hard to reach) and so this is best done by a qualified Maternity Reflexologist. However in the Ingham Method we use special Reflexology Foot Rollers that you can learn to use to work the reflexes on the base of the foot inbetween sessions. This extends the effectiveness of the reflexology session and adds to the value of the Maternity Reflexology.

Hand Reflexology and its uses.
Hand Reflexology is still an unusual therapy and a particular speciality of mine so I use it at every treatment. The hands represent a mini-map of the entire body and they are easier for you to work yourself than the feet and therefore are of great benefit for self-help. During pregnancy and labour you can take some measure of control and use a hand reflexology, spiky ball to give yourself a mini treatment.

Working the hand reflexes may for example: induce deep relaxation, revitalise your energy, detoxify the liver and the kidneys, balance your emotions, help blood pressure and help the body systems by relieving constipation. You are encouraged to work your own hand reflexes once you are confident and have had sufficient practice, so that during the labour you can treat yourself.

Call me for a free 10 minute telephone consultation and I will try to answer your questions personally.
Dr Melanie Jones (PhD).
01467 642114
07896 047 660 

Melanie is based at the new natural health Paradise Clinic in Kemnay, Aberdeenshire but has a wide range of clients who come from Aberdeen. Mobile visits are possible, if necessary. Kemnay is very close to Inverurie and the A96.