Reflexology involves massage, and the application of pressure, to points on the feet, which correspond to various organs and systems in the body. Some women (and caregivers) will use certain reflexology points for labour pain throughout the woman's labour. Each time the contraction starts, the person administering the reflexology takes one foot (or both) and applies pressure during the contractions. Some women will ask for different points on the feet to be tried, to see which one she prefers.
The points are usually worked while the woman sits on a chair (if she can) or under the shower. The partner, or support person, may sit on towels in swimmers on the floor. Alternatively, the woman may kneel into a beanbag or lie on her side.
The reflexology points include:
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A point that lies between the fleshy pads under the big toe and next toe. The partner, support person or caregiver holds one of the woman's feet firmly in their hands and applies strong pressure at the beginning of a contraction with their finger or thumb, easing the pressure off as the contraction finishes. |
Image 4-20 shows the exact position of the reflexology point near the big toe.
Image 4-21 shows pressure being applied to the reflexology point near the big toe.
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A point that lies just below the centre of the ball of the foot. Again, the partner, support person or caregiver holds one of the woman's feet firmly in their hands and applies strong pressure at the beginning of a contraction with their finger or thumb, easing the pressure off as the contraction finishes. |
Image 4-22 shows the exact position of the reflexology point on the ball of the foot.
Image 4-23 shows pressure being applied to the reflexology point on the ball of the foot.