Fertility Issues
According to the Infertility Network (UK), one in six couples seek specialist help in trying for a child. You are not alone.
The aim of fertility reflexology is to enhance the chances of natural conception by trying to create the best possible emotional and physical environment for the pregnancy. In terms of improving reproductive health, as a reflexologist Joanne works on the basis that stress can often create pressure on the systems that are vital to fertility and by reducing stress, reflexology appears to have a balancing effect on the body and mind.
Joanne has trained to specialise in reflexology treatments for fertility issues and is a professional member of the Infertility Network (UK). Joanne understands what a sensitive and difficult time this can be for many couples and draws upon her experience, training and research into infertility to provide personalised treatments to her Clients.
Joanne has undertaken advanced reflexology training (AOR accredited) to enhance fertility with David Wayte who is a leading reflexologist with many years experience and success in helping couples overcome infertility, who was also filmed for the BBC3 series 'Make Me A Baby'.
Joanne is a qualified Finger Free Reflexology Practitioner which enables her to use new techniques in addition to classical reflexology methods to adapt sessions accordingly.Joanne has also trained in aromatherapy for the feet - this qualification allows her to select essential oils to boost her reflexology treatments when appropriate. This is beneficial as some essential oils are particularly good at aiding relaxation and are known to have a balancing effect on the hormones. Joanne is also qualified in hand reflexology which enables her to show Clients techniques that can be used at home, in between treatments.
There are many reasons why Clients have come to Joanne for reflexology treatments - amongst these are:
Irregular menstrual cycles
Absence of menstrual cycle (Amenorrhea)
Polycistic ovaries (PCOS)
Endometriosis
Inexplained infertility
Stress and anxiety
To prepare a healthy environment for conception
To re-balance after fertility treatment, e.g. when ICSI or IVF has failed
- To recover after a miscarriage
To try to conceive naturally before moving on to IVF
Joanne also sees Clients in the process of assisted conception - please read our page on IVF for more information.
Stress and Conception
There is no doubt that stress can play a very significant factor in an individuals ability to conceive and reflexology is highly succesful as a method of managing and reducing stress. Often, the longer you are trying to conceive, the greater the stress, and a viscious cycle can be triggered. Stress has been found to affect both male and female hormones. When faced with stressful situations, the body produces adrenalin and cortisol which if present over a long period of time can disrupt the production of hormones affecting ovulation, implantation conditions and sperm quality. Reflexology can help reduce this stress which inturn leads to improvements in overall health.
Reflexology and Balance
Reflexology aims to create a natural healthy balance within the body, known as homeostasis. Joanne has received very positive feedback from Clients who have been receiving regular reflexology sessions with her regarding the balancing effect that reflexology appears to have on the endocrine (hormonal) system. This has included reports of a reduction in PMT symptoms, the return of menstruation or more regular cycles. In addition many have commented that they feel much calmer and more positive.
It is important to note that there are a number of factors that can affect a couple's ability to conceive - in nearly 30% of cases the cause is attributed to the female, 30% to the male, 30% to both and 10% unexplained. It may therefore be beneficial to consider treatments for both partners if you are having problems conceiving.
Infertility
The definition of infertility is when a couple has not conceived after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse (using no form of contraception) if the female is under 34 years old, or if the couple has not conceived after 6 months of regular unprotected intercourse (using no form of contraception) if the female is over 35 years old. If you have been trying to conceive for a while and fall into either of the above categories, or if you have concerns regarding your fertility then it is advisable to seek medical advice even if you decide to try reflexology.
Can reflexology cure infertility?
AOR reflexologists do not claim to cure any condition, and infertility is no exception to this. Reflexology helps to reduce stress and increase relaxation and this can result in a reduction of symptoms and may create a healthier environment for conception to occur. It is important to note that everyone responds to reflexology differently and no reflexologist can give you a guarantee that you will get pregnant.
Client Testimonials
"I decided to have reflexology as I was finding it difficult to conceive. I found the whole treatment process extremely relaxing and that it helped with my overall sense of wellbeing. I'm now nearly four months pregnant and am totally convinced that reflexology was one of the main factors in achieving this"
Anon, Knutsford, 2009
"I just wanted to say thank you for everything you have done for me. It was definitely the reflexology that has helped - on the basic level of relaxation, but i think it has definitely helped in regulating my cycle as well. I just want to say a very very big thank you! The advice you have given me has been invaluable to me as well - it has been good to have you as an independent party to talk to."
Anon, Sale, 2009
"Joanne has been a real find for me. She is very well experienced in her fields of excellence and was described to me by one of her colleagues as a "very talented lady" and I have to agree. She remains professional yet friendly and supportive. I look forward to my sessions and know I will come away relaxed and feeling better than I did on arrival. Not only has Joanne offered an excellent reflexology service but she has also offered advice on others areas of my general health and wellbeing. She seems to take a real interest in her clients. I would whole heartedly recommend Joanne."
CG, Flixton, 2010
“I started to see Joanne for a prolapsed disc in my back and also because I wanted help trying to conceive my first baby at the age of 36. Joanne made me feel very comfortable from the start and I was amazed at her accuracy and knowledge. She is extremely professional and genuinely cares about your well being and health. I enjoyed every second of my treatments and felt a huge difference from the very first session. I was more relaxed and slept much better. I have no doubt in my mind that she had a very big part to play in me falling pregnant after only two months! I would recommend Joanne to anyone without hesitation”
TC, Manchester, 2010
"Joanne's persona reflects the brand name of the business. Welcoming, warm and kindness showed at every visit. I often found my appointments an escape from the trials and tribulations of every day life and a safe haven to feel at ease to deeply relax in."
Anon, 2011
Futher reading about reflexology and infertility
There's lots of information on the internet telling of personal stories of how reflexology has helped couples to get pregnant, here are a few examples of newspaper articles on the subject of reflexology and infertility:
Please note: Joanne would urge anyone concerned about the time it is taking them to conceive to seek medical advice, in the first instance by visiting their GP. Reflexology is not intended as a replacement to conventional medicine.