Reflexology and infertility treatment
IVF
Many clients ask whether it is OK to have reflexology whilst undergoing infertility treatment. Reflexology is incredibly beneficial in the run up to starting IVF - it can help to deal with the emotional stresses and strains of treatment and helps to prepare both the body and mind.
Reflexology can play an invaluable role during IVF as well as beforehand. Reflexology can help women to cope with the ups and downs of fertility treatment - in the midst of injections, scans and all the waiting, having a regular reflexology appointment can help you to stay positive and calm.
You will find varying advice on reflexology during the down regulating (down regging) and stimulation (stimming) stages of IVF. This is because during these stages you are taking fertility drugs to encourage your body to go into a temporary menopause and then to overstimulate it to produce several eggs. As reflexology is all about achieving a natural balance, or homeostasis, some feel that reflexology would not be complementary to this part of the process and this is something we discuss with clients.
The AOR guidelines on fertility state that the drugs, such as clomiphene, buserelin, puregon etc, which are used to control the hormone cycle and then stimulate ovulation, do not appear to be affected by reflexology and there is no reason why a person should not have reflexology at the same time. Of course if you aren't sure, you could also ask your healthcare provider for their advice.
At Calma Reflexology Joanne has developed treatment plans that focus on aiding relaxation and encouraging blood flow to the uterus to prepare the womb lining at this stage of IVF. Joanne does not work to balance the endocrine system at this time as she believes the drugs should be left to do their job. A Clients' needs will change each week, and if you are suffering from headaches for example, or you are feeling really down, your session will be adapted accordingly. You will also be provided with breathing exercises and be shown hand reflexology techniques that can be used at any time - these are all techniques that Joanne has used herself during IVF.
2WW
Reflexology can be fabulously calming in the dreaded 'two week wait'. Again, whether you have reflexology at this stage is down to your personal choice. You may find you want to wrap yourself in cotton wool and stay tucked away, or you may find it helpful to have a reflexology appointment to look forward to. At this stage there are certain reflexes that should not be worked on, but there are plenty more reflexes that can be used to help relax you and help you to stay calm and positive and we'll include lots of calming foot massage into your treatment too.
Ultimately, only you can decide whether reflexology is right for you at this stage of your fertility journey. Forums like www.fertilityfriends.co.uk can be helpful when you are trying to make a decision and want some advice from other people who have been through IVF. If you are looking for a therapist who has experience of IVF and of treating clients undergoing IVF, then Joanne will be happy to discuss the role reflexology can play and discuss your own personal needs. Combined treatments with acupuncture also available - please contact us for more information.