REFLEXOLOGY RESEARCH – PREGNANCY

2024

PREGNANCY

Effects of foot reflexology massage on pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies. By Yang, Jm., Li, Zq., Ye, H. et al. Pub. by Sci Rep 14, 1012 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-51107-y

Compared to the control group, foot reflexology massage reduced anxiety and pain in pregnant women, shortened the three stages of labor, and increased birth satisfaction. In addition, it also reduced the pulse rate and respiratory rate of pregnant women, but not for blood pressure. Foot reflexology massage can significantly reduce anxiety and pain, shorten the duration of labor, increase birth satisfaction, and stabilize vital signs in pregnant women.

2023

PREGNANCY SYMPTOMS

The effects of reflexology on symptoms in pregnancy: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. By Xiaoyu Liang, Shangping Wu, Ke Li, Haolin Zhang, Fujing Yang, Xinhui Wang, Guangyi Yang. Pub. by Heliyon 2023 Jul 19;9(8):e18442. PMID: 37533996 PMCID: PMC10391945 DOI: 0.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18442

Reflexology is probably effective and safe for labor pain, duration of labor, and anxiety in pregnancy, while the evidences for reflexology in low back and/or pelvic pain, fatigue, sleep quality, constipation symptoms, and ankle and foot edema during pregnancy were insufficient. Based on the low to high quality of included studies, strong supportive evidence is not yet available. Rigorous-design and large-scale clinical trials should be conducted to provide higher-quality, reliable evidence.

PAIN, BREASTFEEDING, WEIGHT OF INFANTS, WOMEN

Effect of Foot Reflexology and Benson Relaxation on Pain, Breastfeeding and Weight of Neonates of Women Undergoing a Cesarean Section. By Farnoosh Tavallali, Hakimeh Vahedparast, Fatemeh Hajinezhad, Razieh Bagherzadeh. Pub by Arch Iran Med. 2023 Jul 1;26(7):381-388. PMID: 38301097 PMCID: PMC10685816 DOI: 10.34172/aim.2023.58

Both the reflexology and the Benson relaxation methods effectively decreased pain and increased breastfeeding frequency and the infant's weight gain.

ANXIETY, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

The Effect of Reflexology on the Anxiety of Pregnant Women During Labor: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. By Abbaszadeh, Zeinab; Malakouti, Jamileh; Maghalian, Mahsa; Mirghafourvand, Mojgan Source: Current Women's Health Reviews, Volume 19, Number 3, 2023, pp. 20-28(9) Pub. by Bentham Science Publishers. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2174/1573404818666220527095739

Reflexology can decrease maternal anxiety during labor. However, given the small number of studies and the high or unclear bias risk in most of them, no definitive conclusions can be drawn, and it is recommended that further research with stronger methodologies be conducted on this subject.

LABOR PAIN, FOOT MASSAGE

Effect of Foot Massage on Labor Pain in Parturient Women. By Yasemin Şanli, İlkay Güngör Satilmiş. Pub. by Altern Ther Health Med. 2023 Mar;29(2):82-88. PMID: 35325870.

In conclusion, it was determined that foot massage could be effective and reliable intervention in the management of labor pain.

PAIN, LABOR, AURICULAR ACUPRESSURE

The effectiveness of auricular acupressure on pain management during labor: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. By Meng-Meng Xu, Qi Tian, Lin Yu, Shu Yang, Yan-Tong Liu, Shuang-Han Yu, Ming-Lu Cao, Wei Zhang. Pub. by Jpn J Nurs Sci. . 2023 Jan;20(1):e12512. PMID: 36134507 DOI: 10.1111/jjns.12512

Effective labor pain relief, better labor pain perception, and the lack of adverse effects support the use of auricular acupressure. More high-quality and rigorous trials are needed to verify our findings before we can make strong recommendations.

2022

PAIN, AROMATHERAPY, LABOUR, WOMEN

'Comparison of the Effects of Foot Trigger Reflexology with Aromatherapy on Anxiety, Pain, and Outcomes of Pregnancy in Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial', By Shokrollahi, P., Farahi, F. (2022). Pub. by Women’s Health Bulletin, 9(4), pp. 191-199. doi: 10.30476/whb.2022.96397.1191

The reflexology with aromatic oil was found to be more effective than that with non-aromatic oil. Furthermore, the pain rate at the time of labor reduced in the intervention groups compared to that in the control group.

LABOUR DURATION, PAIN, WOMEN

The effect of foot reflexology on duration of labor and neonatal apgar score in nulliparous women: A randomized clinical trial. By Valiani, M., Kianpour, M., Shiran, E. Pub. by Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and InfertilityVolume 25, Issue 1, March 2022, Pages 46-55

Foot reflexology directly reduce the labor duration and labor pain which is effective in contribute to shorten the prevalence of asphyxia (breathing difficulty) and improving the Apgar score (Baby’s evaluation).

ANXIETY, PAIN, FIRST TIME PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Effectiveness of Breathing Exercises, Foot Reflexology and Massage (BRM) on Maternal and Newborn Outcomes Among Primigravidae in Saudi Arabia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. By Kamilya Baljon, Muhammad Hibatullah Romli, Adibah Hanim Ismail, Lee Khuan, Boon-How Chew. Pub by Int J Womens Health. 2022 Feb 25;14:279-295. PMID: 35241937 PMCID: PMC8887672 DOI: 10.2147/IJWH.S347971

The labor unit management could consider adopting breathing exercises, foot reflexology, and massage (BRM) as one of the non-pharmacological analgesia for healthy women in labor.

UTERINE AFTER PAIN, PREGNANCY, WOMEN,

A randomized clinical trial on the effect of foot reflexology performed in the fourth stage of labor on uterine afterpain. By Neda Sharifi, Narjes Bahri, Fatemeh Hadizadeh-Talasaz, Hoda Azizi, Hossein Nezami, Hamid Reza Tohidinik. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2022 Jan 21; 22(1):57. PMID: 35062899 PMCID: PMC8783404 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04376-w

The results revealed that foot reflexology in the fourth stage of labor has positive effects on relief from uterine afterpain. Reflexology is therefore recommended as a measure to reduce postpartum uterine after pains.

2021

ANXIETY, PREGNANCY, AURICULAR THERAPY, WOMEN

Reducing Labor Anxiety with Auriculotherapy: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study. By Katayon Vakilian, Mehrnoush Ghaemmaghami, Narges Sheikhganbari, Fatemeh Shabani, Masoomeh Vahedi. Chin J Integr Med. 2021 Sep 28. PMID: 34581941 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-021-3452-0.

Since most women are anxious during labor, it seems that auriculotherapy can be an easy and safe method to reduce labor anxiety.

CHILDBIRTH, PAIN MANAGEMENT, PREGNANCY, WOMEN,

Reflexology in Childbirth Pain Management By Hadis Rahimi, Hossein Elyasi, Nasrin Galehdar. Pub. by Acta Medica Iranica Vol 59, No 6 (Aug. 2021).

Results of all articles showed that if true reflexology is performed on the right location of the body and at the appropriate time, the pain of delivery can be significantly decreased. Reflexology is appropriate pain relief and prophylaxis for any kind of pain, especially delivery and post-delivery pain. It is a safe remedy with no adverse effects reported so far.

PAIN, WOUND HEALING, CESAREAN SECTION, WOMEN

Effect of Complementary Medicine on Pain Relief and Wound Healing after Cesarean Section: A Systematic Review. By Azin Niazi, Maryam Moradi, Vahid Reza Askari, and Neda Sharifi. Pub. by J Pharmacopuncture. 2021 Jun 30; 24(2): 41–53. doi: 10.3831/KPI.2021.24.2.41 PMCID: PMC8220509 PMID: 34249394

Finally, 28 clinical trials (with a sample size of 3,245) scored at least 3 on the Jadad scale were included into the analysis. This article reviewed 13 articles on medicinal herbs, 4 articles on massage, 1 article on reflexology, 2 articles on acupressure. According to the present review, the use of medicinal herbs was the most common method of complementary medicine in pain relief and wound healing after cesarean section.

LABOR PAIN, LABOR, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Effect of plantar reflexology on labor pain and childbirth experience: A randomized controlled clinical trial. By Massoumeh Jameei-Moghaddam, Sakineh Goljaryan, Sakineh Mohammad Alizadeh Charandabi, Simin Taghavi, Mojgan Mirghafourvand. J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2021 Jun; 47(6):2082-2092. PMID: 33749069 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14755

The results of the study showed that plantar reflexology can reduce the severity of labor pain and the length of third stage of labor.

LACTATION, BREASTFEEDING, CESEARIAN SECTION, WOMEN

The Effect of Reflexology on Lactation in Women Who Had Cesarean Section: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. By Sevde Aksu, Pelin Palas Karaca. Complement Med Res. 2021; 28(4):336-343. PMID: 33477165 DOI: 10.1159/000513924

In the study, it was determined that Breastfeeding Charting System and Documentation Tool scores and signs of the onset of breastfeeding increased in the mothers who received reflexology after Cesarean Section.

PAIN, ANXIETY, LABOR DURATION, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

The effect of reflexology on labor pain, anxiety, labor duration, and birth satisfaction in primiparous pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial. By Semra Akköz Çevik, İlknur Incedal. Pub. by Health Care Women Int. 2021;42(4-6):710-725. PMID: 32877317 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2020.1800014

VAS mean scores and State Anxiety Inventory mean scores of the experimental group were found to be statistically significantly lower than the control group. Reflexology was effective in decreasing pain and anxiety and increasing the birth satisfaction during the first stage of labor.

PAIN, WOMEN, PREGNANCY

The effect of guided imagery and reflexology on pain intensity, duration of labor and birth satisfaction in primiparas: randomized controlled trial. By Ece Kaplan, Semra Çevik. Health Care Women Int. 2021; 42(4-6):691-709. PMID: 34156906 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2021.1880411

The mean VAS scores of the experimental groups were statistically lower than the mean score of the control group. The difference between the time averages of the groups was significant. Birth satisfaction mean scores of the experimental groups was higher than the control group.

LABOUR PAIN, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Effect of Foot Reflexology on Reduction of Labour Pain Among Primigravida Mothers. By Manju Mohan, RN, RM and Linda Varghese, RN, RM. Int J Ther Massage Bodywork. 2021 Mar; 14(1): 21–29. PMCID: PMC7892334 PMID: 33654503

The findings showed that foot reflexology was effective in relief of labour pain, with a high degree of patient satisfaction in primigravida mothers.

URINARY RETENTION, CESAREAN SECTION, VOIDING TIME, MATERNAL SATISFACTION, WOMEN

The effect of complementary medicine on maternal health promotion: An experimental study. By Hafizi L, Razmjoo N, Yousefi F, Azizi H. Pub. by J Educ Health Promot. 2021 Jan 28;10:26. doi: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_961_20. PMID: 33688535; PMCID: PMC7933667.

It seems that the use of foot reflexology as a nursing care plan to prevent urinary retention after cesarean section without urinary catheter does shorten first voiding time and increase maternal satisfaction.

2020

UTERINE AFTER PAIN, WOMEN.

A Randomized Clinical Trial on the Effect of Foot Reflexology in the Fourth Stage of Labor on Uterine After Pain. By Neda Sharifi, Narjes Bahri, Fateme Hadizade Talasaz, Hoda Azizi, Hosein Nezami. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-116158/v1 Nov. 2020

The results revealed that foot reflexology in the fourth stage of labor has positive effects on the relief of uterine after-pain. It is therefore recommended that reflexology be used to reduce postpartum uterine after-pain.

ANXIETY, PRIMIPAROUS WOMEN, PREGNANCY

Effect of pre-cesarean foot reflexology massage on anxiety of primiparous women. By Maryam Navaee, Samira Khayat, Zahra Ghadiri Abed. Pub. by J Complement Integr Med. 2020 Sep 23; 17(3). PMID: 32284448 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2019-0229

The results of this study revealed the positive effect of reflexology massage on pre-cesarean anxiety. Because reflexology massage is an inexpensive, simple, and easy approach, the use of this non-pharmaceutical method is recommended to reduce pre-cesarean anxiety.

ANXIETY, LABOR PAIN, LABOR DURATION, BIRTH SATISFACTION, PRIMIPAROUS WOMEN

The effect of reflexology on labor pain, anxiety, labor duration, and birth satisfaction in primiparous pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial. By Akköz Çevik S, Incedal İ. Pub. by Health Care Women Int. 2021;42(4-6):710-725. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2020.1800014. Epub 2020 Sep 2. PMID: 32877317.

Reflexology was effective in decreasing pain and anxiety and increasing the birth satisfaction during the first stage of labor.

ANXIETY, LABOUR DURATION, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

The effectiveness of foot reflexology in reducing anxiety and duration of labor in primiparas: An open-label randomized controlled trial. By Ilana Levy, Samuel Attias, Tamar Stern Lavee, Ofri Avneri, Gil Cohen, Shosh Balachsan, Shlomi Sagi, Elad Schiff. Pub. by Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2020 Feb; 38:101085. PMID: 32056811 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.101085

A larger alleviation of anxiety was observed immediately after reflexology treatment as compared to the control group during the 30 min following group assignment. Reflexology did not affect the length of delivery. Conclusion: Foot reflexology had a positive short-term anxiolytic effect during labor in primiparas with moderate-to-severe anxiety but did not affect the duration of labor.

LACTATION, POSTPARTUM COMFORT, CAESEREAN-DELIVERED FIRST MOTHERS.

The Effect of Reflexology on Lactation and Postpartum Comfort in Caesarean-Delivery Primiparous Mothers: A Randomized Controlled Study. By Seyhan Çankaya PhD, Gülay Ratwisch PhD. Pub. by Int. J. of Nursing Practice. Volume26, Issue 3. June 2020. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijn.12824

Reflexology starts lactation earlier in mothers giving birth via caesarean section, supports the breastfeeding period, and increases mothers' postpartum comfort.

PREGNANCY, EDEMA, WOMEN

Comparing the Effect of Foot Massage with Grape Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil on Physiological Leg Edema in Primigravidae: A Randomized Clinical Trial. By Maryam Navaee, Marzieh Rakhshkhorshid. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2020 Jan 13; 2020:6835814. PMID: 32419817 PMCID: PMC7201824 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6835814.

The findings of this study confirmed the effectiveness of foot massage using grape seed and sweet almond oils to reduce pregnancy physiological edema. Therefore, foot massage with appropriate oils, can be used as a useful technique by trained midwives in prenatal care centres or at pregnant women houses.

2019

INDUCTION OF LABOUR, PREGNANCY OUTCOME, WOMEN

Complementary therapy and alternative medicine: effects on induction of labour and pregnancy outcome in low risk post-dates women. By Koh LM, Percival B, Pauley T, Pathak S. Pub. by Heliyon. 2019 Nov 22;5(11):e02787. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02787. PMID: 31799460; PMCID: PMC6881689.

There is no reduction in induction of labour rates with the use of CAM (combined acupressure, reflexology and aromatherapy). The other effects of CAM on labour and delivery outcomes are varied and potentially only beneficial in a selected group of women. Further research must be carried out before making any clear recommendations on its use.

2018

ANXIETY, PREGNANCY, AURICULAR THERAPY, WOMEN

Reducing Labor Anxiety with Auriculotherapy: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study. By Katayon Vakilian, Mehrnoush Ghaemmaghami, Narges Sheikhganbari, Fatemeh Shabani, Masoomeh Vahedi. Chin J Integr Med. 2021 Sep 28. PMID: 34581941 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-021-3452-0

Since most women are anxious during labor, it seems that auriculotherapy can be an easy and safe method to reduce labor anxiety.

ANXIETY, LABOR, AURICULAR THERAPY, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Effectiveness of auriculotherapy on anxiety during labor: a randomized clinical trial 1. [Article in English, Portuguese, Spanish] By Reginaldo Roque Mafetoni, Mariana Haddad Rodrigues, Lia Maristela da Silva Jacob, Antonieta Keiko Kakuda Shimo. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem. 2018 Sep 6; 26:e3030. PMID: 30208157 PMCID: PMC6136534 DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.2471.3030

The parturients with auriculotherapy presented lower levels of anxiety according to the HAM-A score after the treatment when compared to the women from the other groups; this can represent alternative care in obstetric practice.

LABOR PAIN, PREGNANCY, AURICULAR THERAPY, WOMEN

The effect of auriculotherapy on the severity and duration of labor pain. By Mahboubeh Valiani, Masoumeh Azimi, Zahra Mohebbi Dehnavi, Soheila Mohammadi, Masoume Pirhadi. J Educ Health Promot. 2018 Aug 2; 7:101. PMID: 30159347 PMCID: PMC6089040 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_141_17.

Auriculotherapy reduces the severity of labor pain in primiparous women. Due to the easy, inexpensive, and noninvasive nature of this method, its use has been recommended in these cases.

PAIN, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Reflexology: A randomised controlled trial investigating the effects on beta-endorphin, cortisol and pregnancy related stress. By Julie E.M.McCullough, Sarah Dianne Liddle, CiaraClose, Marlene Sinclair, Ciara M.Hughes. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. Volume 31, May 2018, Pages 76-84

Reflexology during pregnancy may help reduce low back and/or pelvic girdle pain, and associated stress. However, antenatal reflexology is under-researched and requires further investigation.

ANXIETY, LABOUR, WOMEN, PREGNANCY

The Effect of Foot Reflexology on the Anxiety Levels of Women in Labor. By Zümrüt Yılar Erkek, Songul Aktas. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Vol. 24, No. 4. Published Online:1 Apr 2018 https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2017.0263

Foot reflexology had a positive effect in lowering the total anxiety scores of the pregnant women. Reflexology is a non-invasive and economical method, which may be used by health professionals to reduce problems during labor. A decrease in anxiety experienced at birth improves women's positive birth experiences, promotes a secure mother–infant attachment, and protects postpartum mental health.

LABOR, WOMEN

"Complementary medicine for laboring women: a qualitative study of the effects of reflexology" By Arnon, Zahi, Dor, Asnat, Bazak, Hadar, Attias, Samuel, Sagi, Shlomi, Balachsan, Shoshana and Schiff, Elad. Pub. by Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, vol. 16, no. 1, 2019, pp. 20180022. https://doi.org/10.1515/jcim-2018-0022

Using reflexology as one of the complementary medicine treatment available can contribute greatly to the entire labor experience as it empowers women and increases self-confidence and ability to self-manage labor and delivery.

PAIN, ANXIETY, LABOR DURATION, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

2017

LOW BACK PAIN, PELVIC GIRDLE PAIN, LABOUR, PRIMIPAROUS WOMEN

A pilot randomised controlled trial exploring the effects of antenatal reflexology on labour outcomes. By Julie E M McCullough, Ciara Close, S Dianne Liddle, Marlene Sinclair, Ciara M Hughes. Midwifery. 2017 Dec; 55:137-144. PMID: 29024881 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2017.09.006

In this trial, antenatal reflexology reduced labour duration for primiparous women who had experienced low back and/ or pelvic girdle pain during their pregnancy, compared with usual care and footbaths.

FATIGUE, WOMEN, PREGNANCY

Effects of Counselling and Sole Reflexology on Fatigue in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial. By Fatemeh Shobeiri, Behnaz Manoucheri, Parisa Parsa, and Ghodratolah Roshanaei. J Clin Diagn Res. 2017 Jun; 11(6): QC01–QC04. PMCID: PMC5535443 PMID: 28764252

Based on the results of this study, counselling and sole reflexology significantly decreased fatigue in pregnant women. It is hoped that the results of this study can be used by all treatment groups and midwives for controlling and providing midwifery cares for pregnant women.

2016

LABOUR PAIN, PREGNANCY, AURICULAR THERAPY, WOMEN

Effects of auriculotherapy on labour pain: a randomized clinical trial. [Article in English, Portuguese]. By Reginaldo Roque Mafetoni, Antonieta Keiko Kakuda Shimo. Rev Esc Enferm USP. Sep-Oct 2016; 50(5):726-732. PMID: 27982389 DOI: 10.1590/S0080-623420160000600003.

Mothers who received auriculotherapy presented a tendency for greater pain control and shorter labour duration; however, caesarean section rates in this group were similar to the control group. This trial precedes a larger study in progress.

PAIN, ANXIETY, CAESAREAN DELIVERY, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Postoperative Foot Massage for Patients after Caesarean Delivery. By M Xue, L Fan, L N Ge, Y Zhang, J L Ge, J Gu, Y Wang, Y Chen. Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol. 2016 Aug; 220(4):173-8. PMID: 27509141 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-104802.

Post-operative massage intervention can reduce anxiety and pain in patients after caesarean delivery.

LOW BACK PAIN, PELVIC PAIN, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

A pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigating the effectiveness of reflexology for managing pregnancy low back and/or pelvic pain. By Ciara Close, Marlene Sinclair, Julie Mc Cullough, Dianne Liddle, Ciara Hughes. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2016 May; 23:117-24. PMID: 26021213 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2015.05.002

Results indicate it is feasible to conduct a randomised controlled trail in this area, although a footbath is an unsuitable sham treatment. Reflexology may help manage pregnancy low back and/or pelvic pain; however, a fully powered trial is needed to confirm this.

2015

ANXIETY, PAIN, LABOR, PRIMIGRAVIDA WOMEN, PREGNANCY

The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Anxiety, Pain, and Outcomes of the Labor in Primigravida Women. By Soheila Moghimi Hanjani, Zahra Mehdizadeh Tourzani, Mahnaz Shoghi. August 2015. Acta medica Iranica 53(8):507-511.

Results of this study show that reflexology reduces labor pain intensity, duration of labor, anxiety, frequency distribution of natural delivery and increases Apgar scores. Using this non-invasive technique, obstetricians can achieve, to some extent, to one of the most important goals of midwifery as pain relief and reducing anxiety during labor and encourage the mothers to have a vaginal delivery.

PREGNANCY, VARICOSE VEINS, LEG OEDEMA, WOMEN

Interventions for varicose veins and leg oedema in pregnancy. By Rebecca M D Smyth, Nasreen Aflaifel, Anthony A Bamigboye. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015 Oct 19; 2015(10):CD001066.

Reflexology or water immersion appears to help improve symptoms for women with leg oedema, but again this is based on two small studies (43 and 32 women, respectively).

PAIN, SLEEP, POST CAESAREAN MOTHERS

Effect of Foot Reflexology on Post Operative Pain and Sleep among Post Caesarean Mothers. By Deepshikha, Vibha. Pub. by International Journal of Nursing Education and Research. 2016, Volume : 4, Issue : 4. 441 - 444. Print ISSN : 2347-8640. Online ISSN : 2454-2660. Article DOI : 10.5958/2454-2660.2016.00081.8

The findings of the study support the need of implementing foot reflexology to reduce post operative pain and improve sleep among post caesarean mothers. Foot reflexology is a non pharmacological, cost effective and simple intervention without any adverse effects. The results proved that the foot reflexology was effective in reducing the level of post operative pain and improving sleep.

2014

FOOT & HAND MASSAGE, PAIN, CESAREAN SECTION, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Effect of foot and hand massage in post-cesarean section pain control: a randomized control trial. By Zahra Abbaspoor, Malihe Akbari, Shanaz Najar. Pain Manag Nurs. 2014 Mar; 15(1):132-6. PMID: 23352729 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2012.07.008.

According to these findings, the foot and hand massage can be considered as a complementary method to reduce the pain of cesarean section effectively and to decrease the amount of medications and their side effects.

LABOR PAIN, ACUPUNCTURE, WOMEN

Comparison between Effect Acupuncture on SP6 Point and Reflexology on the Severity of First-Stage Labor Pain. By Soheila Hajighasemali, Sedigheh Amir Ali Akbari *, Alireza Akbarzadeh, Reza Heshmat. Pub. by jmj 2014, 12(4): 17-22.

This study showed that foot reflexology and acupressure at the SP6 pain are effective in reducing labor pain. Application of no pharmacologic pain reduction technique instead of the pharmacological methods to relieve labor pain recommends.

2011

PAIN, PREGNANCY, WOMEN, LABOUR

The Effect of Reflexology on Pain Intensity and Duration of Labor on Primiparas. By M Dolatian1, A Hasanpour, Sh Montazeri, R Heshmat, and H Alavi Majd. Iran Red Crescent Med J. 2011 Jul; 13(7): 475–479. PMCID: PMC3371987 PMID: 22737514

Pain intensity at all the three stages of cervical dilatation was significantly lower in the reflexology group. During the 4-5 cm dilatation stage, women in the supported group reported less severe pain compared to those receiving routine care, but no significant differences at the later stages of labor. This indicates that reflexology could decrease the duration of first, second and third stages of labor. Conclusion: Our findings showed that reflexology can be useful to decrease the pain intensity as well as duration of labor.

SLEEP, POSTPARTUM WOMEN

R andomised controlled trial of the effectiveness of using foot reflexology to improve quality of sleep amongst Taiwanese postpartum women. By Chia-Yen Li, Su-Chiu Chen, Chung-Yi Li, Meei-Ling Gau, Chiu-Mieh Huang. Midwifery. 2011 Apr; 27(2):181-6. PMID: 19577829 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2009.04.005

An intervention involving foot reflexology in the postnatal period significantly improved the quality of sleep. Implications for practice: midwives should evaluate maternal sleep quality and design early intervention programmes to improve quality of sleep in order to increase maternal biopsychosocial well-being. Midwives interested in complementary therapies should be encouraged to obtain training in reflexology and to apply it in clinical settings if it is allowed.

2010

PAIN, PRIMIPAROUS WOMEN

Reviewing the effect of reflexology on the pain and certain features and outcomes of the labor on the primiparous women. By Mahboubeh Valiani 1, Elaheh Shiran, Maryam Kianpour, Marziyeh Hasanpour. Pub. by Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res 2010 Dec;15(Suppl 1):302-10. PMID: 22069404 PMCID: PMC3208928.
Reflexology can lead to decrease in the labor pain. Therefore, regarding to the safety of this technique, it can be replaced as an alternative for pharmacological methods.

PREGNANCY, OEDEMA, FOOT MASSAGE, WOMEN

Effect of foot massage to decrease physiological lower leg oedema in late pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial in Turkey. By Ayden Coban, Ahsen Sirin. Int J Nurs Pract. 2010 Oct; 16(5):454-60. PMID: 20854342 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-172X.2010.01869.x

The results obtained from our research show that foot massage was found to have a positive effect on decreasing normal physiological lower leg oedema in late pregnancy.

PAIN, FOOT & HAND MASSAGE, POST CESAREAN, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Effectiveness of foot and hand massage in post cesarean pain control in a group of Turkish pregnant women. By Nuriye Degirmen, Nebahat Ozerdogan, Deniz Sayiner, Nedime Kosgeroglu, Unal Ayranci. Appl Nurs Res. 2010 Aug; 23(3):153-8. PMID: 20643325 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnr.2008.08.001

Foot and hand massage proved useful as an effective nursing intervention in controlling postoperative pain.

2009

PREGNANCY, PRECONCEPTION, WOMEN

Reflexology in preconception and pregnancy. By Margaret Hensman. Pract Midwife. Jul-Aug 2009; 12(7):17-9. PMID: 19653386

No Abstract Available.

2008

INDUCING OVULATION, WOMEN, PREGNANCY

The effectiveness of foot reflexology in inducing ovulation: a sham-controlled randomized trial. By Holt J, Lord J, Acharya U, White A, O'Neill N, Shaw S, Barton A. 2008. Fertility and Sterility. June 18; 91;6:251-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.04.016

Patient blinding of reflexology studies is feasible. Although this study was too small to reach a definitive conclusion on the specific effect of foot reflexology, the results suggest that any effect on ovulation would not be clinically relevant. Sham reflexology may have a beneficial general effect, which this study was not designed to detect.

2007

LEG OEDEMA, PREGNANCY, VARICOSE VEINS, WOMEN

Interventions for varicose veins and leg oedema in pregnancy. By A. A. Bamigboye, R Smyth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jan 24; (1):CD001066 PMID: 17253454 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001066.pub2

Reflexology appears to help improve symptoms for women with leg oedema, but again this is based on one small study (43 women).

2006

PAIN, LABOUR, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

A retrospective cohort study exploring the relationship between antenatal reflexology and intranatal outcomes. By Jennifer A McNeill, Fiona A Alderdice, Frances McMurray. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2006 May; 12(2):119-25. PMID: 16648089 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2005.11.004.

In conclusion, the only statistically significant difference between groups was less use of Entonox (analgesic) in the reflexology group. Further research requires standardized treatment and outcome measurement using prospective randomized designs with large samples.

2004

PREGNANCY, MIDWIFERY, WOMEN

Implementing reflexology into midwifery practice. By Lyndall Mollart. Aust J Holist Nurs. 2004 Apr; 11(1):37-44. PMID: 19175276

This paper reports on a small quantitative study of midwives who had undertaken a midwifery reflexology course in NSW, Australia. In particular, it examines some of the barriers and influences which affect implementing knowledge into practice.

2003

PREGNANCY, OEDEMA, WELLBEING, WOMEN

Single-blind trial addressing the differential effects of two reflexology techniques versus rest, on ankle and foot oedema in late pregnancy. By L Mollart. Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 2003 Nov; 9(4):203-8. PMID: 14556770 DOI: 10.1016/S1353-6117(03)00054-4.

A 'perceived wellbeing' score revealed the reflexology lymphatic technique group (p<0.0001) significantly increased their wellbeing the most, followed closely by relaxing techniques (p<0.001) and then the control rest group (p<0.03).Lymphatic reflexology techniques, relaxing reflexology techniques and a period of rest had a non-significant oedema-relieving effect. From the women's viewpoint, lymphatic reflexology was the preferred therapy with significant increase in symptom relief.

2002

FETAL ACTIVITY, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Fetal activity following stimulation of the mother's abdomen, feet, and hands. By Miguel A Diego, John N I Dieter, Tiffany Field, Jean Pierre Lecanuet, Maria Hernandez-Reif, Julia Beutler, Shay Largie, Mercedes Redzepi, Fawwaz A Salman. Dev Psychobiol. 2002 Dec; 41(4):396-406. PMID: 12430163 DOI: 10.1002/dev.10071

Our findings indicate that stimulating the mothers' feet, but not the hands can evoke fetal activity in mid gestation.

2000

WOMEN, PREGNANCY

A concept analysis: the effect of reflexology on homeostasis to establish and maintain lactation. By L Tipping, P A Mackereth. Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 2000 Nov; 6(4):189-98. PMID: 11858302 DOI: 10.1054/ctnm.2000.0499

Parents experience many stressful emotions when their baby is admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), which in turn can affect the body, mind and spirit, often contributing to the reduction of lactation for the mother. This paper will utilize a concept analysis approach (Chinn & Jacobs 1987) to provide a focus and sense of direction to the discussion and exploration of the topic.

1996

HYPERTENSION, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

Hypertension of Pregnancy Treated with Foot Reflexology. By Xu, Y., and S.X., 1996 China Reflexology Symposium Report. Beijing: China Reflexology Association, pages 68-69.

Foot reflexology was found to be effective in relieving the symptoms of hypertension, shorten duration of delivery, increasing the rate of spontaneous labor, and improving the health of mothers and babies.

PREGNANCY, MIDWIFERY, WOMEN

The use of complementary therapies in midwifery practice: a focus on reflexology. By D Tiran. . Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 1996 Apr; 2(2):32-7. PMID: 9439270 DOI: 10.1016/s1353-6117(96)80060-6.

This paper introduces the use of complementary therapies within midwifery practice, and particularly focuses on reflexology. Case reports illustrate instances in which reflexology has been successful for childbearing women. Some of the issues pertinent to midwives are explored.

1994

WOMEN, PREGNANCY, BIRTH, ASPHYXIATION, CONSTIPATION

A Case Report: Using Foot Reflexology to Cure Sequelae of Asphyxia with Buttocks Position Birth. By Xu, X., 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, Beijing : China Reflexology Association, pages 33-34.

Foot reflexology was found to be effective for relieving patients suffering from being born by breach birth.

1989

LABOUR, PREGNANCY, WOMEN

The Effects of Reflexology on Labour Outcome, Dr. Gowri Motha and Dr. Jane McGrath, Forest Gate, London, England, Nursing Times, Oct. 11, 1989

The effects of reflexology on labor outcomes were perceived as outstanding. Some had labor times of only 2 hours, some 3 hours. The 20 – 25 year olds had an average time of First stage labor of 5 or 6 hours. The 26 – 30 year olds seemed to have the longest labors. In total, the average first stage was 5 hours, second stage 16 minutes, and third stage 7 minutes. This is compared to textbook figures of 16 to 24 hours’ first stage, and, 1 to 2 hour’s second stage.

1988

PREGNANCY, BIRTH, PAIN, WOMEN

Easier Births Using Reflexology. By Sorrig, K., Danish Daily Newspaper, Berlingske Tidende, July 15, 1988.

Foot reflexology is useful in assisting deliveries reducting the use of drugs to stimulate uterine contractions, and reducing the frequency of analgesics, and general anesthetics to release a retained placenta.