BLOG Archives - Reproductive Reflexologists

Barbara Scott interview with MysticMag

Beverley Parmar — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 12:17:45 +0000

To see Barbaras Q&A with MysticMag please go to this link: https://www.mysticmag.com/psychic-reading/interview-barbarascott/

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What is the follicular phase (and why do you need to know about it when trying for a baby?)

Zoe Oughton — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 15:42:10 +0000

What is the follicular phase (and why do you need to know about it when trying for a baby?)

by Rowena Gledhill

Do you know what a follicular phase is (and why it’s important)?

The follicular phase is the first half of your monthly cycle. It can last between 7 and 21 days. Teens can have a follicular phase of up to 32 days!

It starts when a few follicles (6 -8) get to the end of their 100 day development to begin ovulation.

The follicle development is governed by the pituitary hormone FSH – follicule-stimulating hormone, which stimulates the follicles to grow. You have less FSH when younger, hence the likelihood of a longer phase, and more as you mature – leading to shorter or irregular periods.

FSH levels also contribute to how heavy or light your bleed is – the hormone stimulates estradiol which influences the thickening of the uterine lining. The more estradiol = thicker lining = heavier periods.

The maturing follicles stimulate the production of estradiol – oestrogen – which can promote feelings of wellbeing, happiness, libido by boosting your ‘feel good’ neurotransmitters of serotonin and dopamine. Oestrogen is also important for healthy skin, bones, muscles, brain, heart, sleep AND metabolism!

In short, the follicular phase of your cycle is likely to be the part where you feel most connected to yourself, feel happier and better able to cope with anything life throws at you, and if you’re trying for a baby – it’s the time when you are more likely to feel like having sex.

If you have PCOS (poly-cycstic ovary syndrome), you are likely not to be ovulating because the availability of the hormones you need to ovulate are suppressed by an over production of androgens like testosterone. Your body may be producing follicles, but they won’t be able to ripen because the FSH needed to mature them and move to oestrogen production is blocked by higher levels of testosterone and other male hormones. This means that the follicular phase just keeps going, without an egg being produced, making it very hard to conceive.

Can you regulate the follicular phase? Yes. Charting your monthly cycles is key to finding out what’s happening inside. As follicles take over 100 days to mature, three months of charts will give you great data on what has happened to get you to now.

This information can then be used to focus on changes that positively influence your hormonal balance. Amending your nutrition, lifestyle changes, specific supplements and targeted reproductive reflexology have shown improvements in regulating the follicular phase.

In a study conducted by the Association of Reproductive Reflexologists, the pregnancy rate for women with PCOS was 72% (live birth rate 57%), showing the effectiveness of regular reproductive reflexology treatments.

Balancing your cycle helps your body to work in harmony, and you to feel better.

What’s your follicular phase like?

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Supporting Someone With Fertility Issues

Zoe Oughton — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 15:04:34 +0000

Supporting Someone With Fertility Issues by Nicky Read Nicky Read MAR, MARR, MCThA, ITEC Dip

Coping with fertility issues can be a complex and difficult time in a person’s life, a time when they need the most support from the people that love them.

And while you want to help and you want to be there, it can be very difficult to know what to say and how to handle the situation.

At Nurture 4 Life, we help lots of people as they go through this difficult time and we thought we would put together a list of what to avoid saying and doing if you have a loved one in the same position.

We also thought it would be helpful to share some alternatives you could embrace instead to help you continue to be a supportive, encouraging and positive person during your friend or loved one’s fertility issues.

If you are currently in that situation, it might be helpful to share this with your loved ones too. Many people don’t know what to say or are worried about saying the wrong thing so a gentle nudge to let them know what you would appreciate people saying or doing might make your relationship with them a little easier.

1. Don’t Give Advice

Giving unwarranted advice on the complexity of and ‘what they could do better’ in their situation can come across as hurtful and offensive. They’ve probably seen numerous doctors, nurses, had tests and scans completed on them for quite some time and it can feel insulting to assume that they’ve not tried x or considered y. They will probably have already done their own research and will know more than you do.

Instead: Do some research on infertility generally and be prepared to serve as a support when they come to you for a difficult conversation about what they could do. If asked, discuss your legitimate, well-researched findings in an open, honest and non-judgemental way. They will thank you for your honesty and for not being ‘preachy’ with them. Or just listen, don’t judge and be there as a shoulder to cry on.

2. Don’t Hide Your Baby News

Keeping things from the ones we love is painful and difficult but if they find out exciting wonderful news about a dear friend from a third party it’s even more hurtful. Of course, they are going through a tough time with their fertility issues but they still want to feel part of your life and to not be separated from what’s happening.

Instead: Think about how you tell them. Be sure that the way they find out that you are pregnant is respectful and considered. If you intend on announcing it as a big surprise, perhaps give them a heads up so that they can deal with the news without having to put on a brave face. A face to face conversation just between the two of you, a phone call, a text or even a lovely note could be a little less painful as they will appreciate that you have still thought about them as you’re celebrating your own happy news.

Seeing ultrasound pictures as you scroll through social media when you aren’t prepared for it can really hurt. Of course, your news will get them thinking about their own troubles but that is never a reason to keep it from them.

3. Don’t Try To Relate To Them

Maybe on the face of it this sounds counter-intuitive, shared stories bring us closer to our friends. However, in this case, they are most likely going through one of the most difficult times in life; they are frustrated, they are hurt and they are confused and there is almost no way you can truly identify with what they are going through and how they are feeling.

Instead: Just be there. Be around for a hug, be around to talk about it, to not talk about it, to make them laugh or to cry with them. Accept that this is hard, and just be what they need you to be.

4. Don’t Tell Them That They’ve Got Time

This will only add the pressure of them being unable to conceive. They will ask themselves why it hasn’t happened yet and stress out more. While they may be young and this increases the chances of fertility treatments being a success, there are no guarantees.

Instead: Attend the difficult appointments with them. Especially if they are for fertility treatments or if they are perhaps receiving results of testing, even just sitting in the waiting room shows how much you care and how much you support them on this difficult journey.

5. Don’t Try To Solve It

Saying things like ‘there are thousands of children in the foster care system’ or ‘you can always adopt’, at this moment in time, is not helpful. It will only feel like you have given up hope for them, as well as the fact that this is something they will want to come to on their own, if at all.

Instead: Remember them on Mother’s and Father’s days. Whether they have lost children in the past or they have been unable to conceive for a long time, these days can be very tough on your friends and loved ones who have wanted to be parents for so long. Just checking in on them will show how much you care.

6. Don’t Tell Them To Relax

If relaxing was all they needed to do, infertility would never have become an issue for them in the first place. Couples find themselves infertile for a vast range of reasons and none can be boiled down to relaxation. Handling fertility issues is the same as dealing with a broken arm or tackling cancer, relaxation is not the answer.
Relaxing isn’t going to make endometriosis, PCOS or sperm motility issues disappear, no matter how well-intentioned the sentiment is.

Instead: Ask what they need from you. There is nothing more comforting than a friend sitting with you during hard time and simply asking what they need to be for you right now. This approach is sensitive and loving and open; all of which are wonderful qualities to find in a friend.

At Nurture 4 Life we offer a range of specialised and natural therapies and treatments. Whether someone is at the start of their journey, have a hit a brick wall and don’t know where to go from here, are preparing for IVF or need to try a different approach to manage and improve their symptoms and bring them closer to achieve their dream of parenthood, we can help. To find out more book a free, no-obligation telephone call.

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Infertility And Fibroids

Zoe Oughton — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 14:59:16 +0000

Infertility And Fibroids by Finola at Loving Touch therapies

Fibroids – also called ‘Myomas or Fibromyomas’ that are made up of muscular and fibrous tissue. They are benign non-cancerous growths in or on the muscular wall (myometrium) of the womb, and are the most common structural abnormality of the uterus.

They can vary in size from as small as a pea to the size of a melon. If severe they can also cause damage to other organs and restrict blood flow to the uterus.

Some women show no symptoms at all – where as others will show signs of:

Heavy menstruation
Lower abdominal pain
Anemia
Chronic vaginal discharge
Indigestion
Vaginal infections
Excessive bleeding between the normal menstrual cycle

Depending on where they grow, fibroids are given different names:

Submucosal fibroids – develops in the submucosal or subendometrial layer of the uterus – it is the least common type – but the most problematic – particularly because they can develop into pedunculated (stalked) fibroids – which can dangle within the uterine cavity, protruding into the womb.

The symptoms of these fibroids include:

Heavier and longer menstrual bleeds
Pelvic pain – particularly during bleeds
Back pain
Lower abdominal pain – as the result of the weight of larger fibroids 5cm or above
Severe abdominal pain if they become pedunculated fibroids – that twist or outgrow their blood supply.

Subserosal fibroids – found on the exterior of the uterine wall – these can also be pedunculated (stalked). They can become quite large, filing the whole abdominal cavity. They do not affect the bleed – but can cause:

Pelvic pain
Back pain
A general feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen or bladder
Constipation and bloating
Frequent urination
Abdominal cramping or pain – sever pain if they are pedunculated and twist
Kidney damage if the uterus grows so big that it causes compression on the other pelvic organs

Fibroids – are oestrogen sensitive so a diet that is high in saturated fat, dairy and low in fibre – will make things worse due to more oestrogen circuolating in the body.

Connected to issues with fertility – in particular with implantation – if fibroids are situated on the back or top of the uterus they can prevent a blastocyst from implanting in the best sites for successful conception.

It is not known why fibroids develop – but they can occur in 30-40% of women. One in 5 women commonly between the ages of 30 and 50 may develop one at some stage in their lives.

If left untreated for to long the fibroids can grow to such an extent that the only solution would be a hysterectomy.

An ultrasound would determine it’s size and position.

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How lockdown created a change in direction

Zoe Oughton — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 14:43:15 +0000

How lockdown created a change in direction by Isobel Fowler

It happened very suddenly. I was in Portugal enjoying a weekend break when the threat of coronavirus began to get serious. Cafes and shops were starting to shut down. Soon after, booking cancellations started to roll in. Firstly, from clients who suffer with chronic illnesses, they didn’t want to cancel, but their doctors had advised them to self-isolate because ‘the virus could be fatal’. The big event I was booked for was postponed. Whether we were prepared for it or not, we were soon to go into lockdown.

Nine months earlier, I’d quit my job and retrained as a Reflexologist at the London school of Reflexology. I submitted the folders thick with months of coursework on Sunday and jetted off the next day for an epic 3 month trip to South and North America, with my partner and 4 year old.

When we returned home, I built up a business with some amazing clients. I began working from 2 therapy rooms in central London and was about to take on two more spaces in South East London. I was helping people to improve their health and fertility and felt that I had finally found my calling.

When coronavirus hit, I was thrown into home-schooling my 5 year old whilst getting used to this new way of life. Thoughts of my business were no longer at the forefront of my mind. During this time, I occupied myself by completing the fantastic Reproflexology course with Barbara Scott, studying for a master herbalism diploma and continued to make and sell therapeutic creams and balms. I’ve kept in touch with clients through emails, social media and newsletters. Some have become like friends and it feels strange not be able to support them at this time.

As a new business, being connected with organisations and associations, such as the AOR and ARR for news, information and support was really useful. I work at the Neal’s Yard Borough therapy rooms and they have been excellent in sharing resources on their online community page. I had also signed up with Urban, who have developed guidelines and training. The expectation is that we should wear a reusable cotton mask and clients will need to wear disposable ones.

One decision I have made during lockdown is that I will no longer be mobile when it’s time to go back to work. The old garages in our garden are being removed, making way for a log cabin. This is an exciting opportunity to reframe my business and to create my own space. No doubt it will take some time to get used to the new way of working. I would not have thought this when I was back in Portugal, but I now I feel grateful for this challenge as it has helped me to change direction.

Isabel is the Founder of KIN Reflexology and KIN Botanicals and specialises in fertility reflexology. Isabel decided to follow in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother who both practiced Reflexology. Fascinated with energy healing, she has studied Reiki and learnt about healing from Shamans in the Ecuadorian Rainforest. To learn more about Isabel please look on this website or visit my Instagram page.

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Trying for a Baby? Try Relaxing Reproflexology

Zoe Oughton — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 14:34:55 +0000

Trying for a Baby? Try Relaxing Reproflexology

by Zoe Oughton

Oh, the excitement and anticipation of trying for a baby. You’re young and in love. Maybe you’ve moved into your first family home. You’re ready. You’re already planning the nursery, the pram, the adorable little outfits… Sadly, it’s not always that easy and trying to conceive (or TTC if you’re a member of one of the many forums devoted to the subject) can become stressful, overwhelming and all-encompassing. Sustained failure to conceive can contribute to depression and relationship problems.

It seems so unfair, doesn’t it, that some women seem to get pregnant at the drop of a hat, while others struggle for years? It can be heart-breaking. IVF is no easy ride and has no guarantees. As many as one in every three couples struggle to conceive. And don’t assume it’s just a women’s issue – infertility can affect men and women equally. Both mum AND dad to be must look after their fertility health and well-being.

Get Ready

When you decide it’s time to try for a baby, there are things you should do to maximise the chance of conception and also to pave the way for a healthy pregnancy:

Achieve a healthy BMI.
Stop smoking.
Eat a healthy diet.
Aim to keep blood sugars balanced.
Try to avoid stress.
Try to get quality sleep.
Start taking supplements – the ARR has a list of recommended ones which you will receive at your consultation meeting.
Cut down on caffeine.
Avoid alcohol.

It’s best to do everything you possibly can to give yourself the best chance to conceive, and the best start to a pregnancy. Complementary therapies aren’t simply ‘alternative’ treatments, or even last resorts. Fertility reflexology, also known as Reproflexology, has many benefits for natural fertility. It’s also much more affordable – and accessible – than expensive private treatments.

Give Yourself a Chance

Reflexology is an age-old natural treatment, with its roots in Ancient Egypt and has been adapted to help couples maximise fertility. This could increase their chances of conceiving. Reflexology can promote deep relaxation and feelings of wellbeing – reducing stress is crucial to good health. Reflexology is based on the theory that specific points on the feet correspond with different parts and systems of the body. The treatment involves massage to these points and areas, and in Reproflexology, that could be the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, or the pituitary gland. When treating the father-to-be this could include the testes and vas deferens.

Regular Reproflexology treatment can help couples who are actively trying to conceive, not just those who are struggling. As a holistic treatment which aims to ease the physical and mental causes of infertility, Reproflexology is natural, non-invasive, safe – and seems to work for many.

Reproflexology by Numbers

The Association of Reproductive Reflexologists undertook a data collection study of 180 clients, who were receiving reproductive reflexology whilst trying to conceive. Results were as follows:

100 natural conceptions
22 conceptions with IVF/ICSI
Age range 24-46
Average number of treatments, 11.32
68% conceived while receiving treatments
Pregnancy with IVF/ICSI 52%

Fertility reflexology is for men as well as women. Both partners should undergo fertility testing before starting treatment and should attend the initial consultation together.

What Happens?

Before your treatment starts, we’ll talk about your medical and gynaecological history and any previous pregnancy experiences. I’ll ask about your lifestyle, diet, sleep patterns, energy and fitness levels. When you’re happy that fertility reflexology is right for you, we’ll plan your course of reflexology treatments. Reproflexology Clinics are available in the following settings, each with calming and airy treatment rooms and free parking:

Cheshire Natural Health, Beehive House, Tarporley Rd, Stretton, Warrington, WA4 4ND.Wednesday 2.00pm – 8.00pm and Thursday 9.30am – 3.00pm. Website: cheshirenaturalhealth.co.uk
The Bump and Baby Hideout, 196 Dane Road, Sale, Cheshire, M33 2LG. Monday 1.30pm to 5.30pm. Website: thebumpandbabyhideout.com
Bramhall Osteopathic Practice, 57 Woodford Road, Bramhall, Cheshire, SK7 1JR, Tuesdays. Website: bramhallosteopaths.co.uk

Full details can be found here: https://relaxingreflexology.com/contact

Ideally, it’s best to have two treatments before ovulation, with weekly treatments thereafter. At every appointment, I will ask how you and your partner a re feeling and where you are in your menstrual cycle.

Regular treatments throughout the menstrual cycle are recommended to promote the ideal conditions to support and develop a healthy egg through to ovulation, aid implantation, and help support a pregnancy.

Relaxing Reproflexology

I am a qualified practitioner in Seren Natural Fertility, trained by the renowned reflexology fertility guru and holistic fertility expert Barbara Scott. Seren specialises in the treatment of infertility, particularly for couples undergoing assisted fertility treatments such as IUI and IVF/ICSI*. When you choose to work with me, you get so much more than your Reproflexology sessions, including:

Daily support and advice via WhatsApp.
Checking hormone levels and ovulation progress through temperature charting
Hand reflexology exercises as homework between sessions

Whatever your reasons for trying reproflexology, I’m with you every step of the way. Pun intended.

How Can a Foot Treatment Help Conception?

As a complementary therapy, Reflexology is thought to have many real benefits. Reflexology has been around for thousands of years. In the 1920’s, the first foot map was produced. This illustrated points on the feet linked to which parts of the body. Then, in the thirties, Eunice Ingham developed this therapy into what we now know as reflexology. She found that tension or inflammation in those parts of the feet – the reflex points – reflected an issue in the corresponding part of the body.

I have several clients who will say that fertility reflexology could offer a dream come true. At the very, VERY least reflexology promotes relaxation and offers a gentle, human touch combined with peace, quiet and an empathetic ear.

Find out more in my next blog.

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“Secondary Fertility”

Zoe Oughton — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 14:08:52 +0000

“Secondary Fertility” by Karen Jones

Liz came to see me for reflexology with Secondary Unexplained Fertility. Her first child had taken 2 years to conceive.

They had been trying for a second for over 3 years. All tests had been taken via their GP and had come back clear.

Due to an irregular menstrual cycle Liz had been referred to the fertility unit. They were keen to get her started on Clomiphene for 6 months.

She explained she was a natural worrier feeling highly stressed at the thought of what she had to go through. Having experienced reflexology with her first pregnancy, she had returned after finding it very calming and relaxing.

Feeling guilt about wanting a second baby so much, especially as she already had a child.

After her first round of Clomid her Clinic decided that her dose needed to be double. A scan was taken to check for polyps, none were found.

We discussed Liz working on improving her diet. Which she did cutting out wheat and dairy.

I received a lovely email saying how much better she felt.

During the next couple of months, we worked on calming her nervous system and managing her stress levels.

Her son started school, she was working part-time, plus working on her own business in the evenings. Together with the added stress of trying to conceive.

Round 3 of Clomid, she was in the mindset ‘if it happens it happens’.

By her 5^thround Liz was so disappointed that nothing had happened. She didn’t want to go down the full IVF route as a couple or financially.

At her following treatment she announced she was pregnant. So was so relieved and delighted.

Liz continued to see me weekly for treatments throughout her pregnancy. After the initial nausea, tiredness and heightened sense of smell she enjoyed a straightforward pregnancy.

During her 2^ndtrimester she was blooming with lots of energy. She looked forward to her treatments enjoying the benefits. Falling asleep as she found them so relaxing.

She was prone to overdoing things and had constant ‘to do’ lists and a very strong nesting instinct. Time out was very important for her.

Towards the end of her pregnancy she discussed her fear of labour. Having had a very long painful experience the first time round. It had taken her time to recover physically and mentally.

Her due day came and went 5 days later after an amazingly quick labour she was able to meet her much longed for baby girl.

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Reflexology and Fertility: A conversation with Barbara Scott

Karen Taylor — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 15:28:29 +0000

Reflexology and Fertility: A conversation with Barbara Scott

By Barbara Scott

This article is an interview between Tambre Fertility Clinic, Madrid and Barbara Scott -July 2019

As we know, Assisted Reproduction is a multidisciplinary branch. This means that its treatments often integrate complementary therapies. Today, we approach reflexology and, for this, we wanted to take advantage of Barbara Scott’s and her colleague Harriet Combe’s visit to solve a handful of queries.

How would you define reflexology?

Reflexology is a form of complementary therapy that has been in existence for many thousands of years, and is still frequently used in its originating countries of Egypt, China and India. I always explain it to my clients as working in a similar way to acupuncture, in that we are working with energy that flows through the body in what are called ‘meridians’. These ‘flows of energy’ become blocked and the relevant affected part of the body becomes unable to function as well as it should. In acupuncture terms, needles are placed directly into these ’flows of energy’ and with reflexology we access them by working with precise areas called ‘reflex points’ on the feet, hands or ears. It sounds a little strange but there are now increasing numbers of pieces of research that show how effective it can be.

Why do you think holistic therapies are important with respect to infertility?

Fertility issues are complex and varied and can have many causal factors. Holistic therapists have the luxury of being able to spend time with patients, this allows them to explore many avenues that may have been overlooked, including the impact of stress. We know that stress can have a detrimental effect upon both the endocrine and therefore the reproductive systems in both men and women, so even managing stress levels themselves can have a beneficial effect. Having time with patients also allows them to explore the emotional aspects that having difficulties with conceiving can cause and this is so important to address and can make their fertility journey easier.

What do you love most about your profession?

As Reproductive Reflexologists, we use an evidence-based approach, which means that we rely upon medical tests to help us to determine where the underlying issues may be and these help us to plan effective and appropriate treatment. These may include relevant blood tests and semen analysis, we also use repeat testing to help us to measure ongoing progress. I absolutely love my initial consultation with each client, particularly when working with men too. Using a forensic approach to allow us to bring together all of the pieces of the jigsaw puzzle to find the ‘Aha’ moment, really makes my work worthwhile. And when we get a positive result, my heart sings for the patient.

We have been reading the several case studies you posted in your website and we noticed that you also encourage your patients to change their nutritional habits and lifestyle. Why are those aspects useful?

There is so much research that shows that nutrition and lifestyle can have both negative and positive effects upon fertility for both men and women. And we know that this is just as important for assisted conception and receiving donor eggs as much as for natural conception. I also feel that making small but significant changes can be very empowering for patients as they can feel that there is something constructive that they are able to do to help improve their chances of conceiving.

Do you often find people who do not “believe” in this set of methods?

We do tend to find that men are more sceptical than women about using any form of complementary therapy as part of their fertility journey. However, once we have met couples or singles at an initial consultation and they can see that we use a science-based approach we find that attitudes change. Although it can seem very strange to think that having your feet worked upon can have a beneficial effect upon the rest of your body, our data shows that 68% of patients conceived whilst using these techniques. That really speaks for itself!

How would you define your experience in Clinica Tambre during your visit?

I can only say how incredibly impressed I was with our visit, from beginning to end, everything has been carefully thought about. The clinic itself is patient-centred and provides a calm and thoughtful approach to ensure that stress levels are kept to a minimum. From the idea of providing individual ‘pods’ for the waiting area for patients to ensure privacy, through to the delightful ‘bedrooms’ for pre/post treatment was perfect. The thorough testing for each patient and an individualised approach to treatment speaks for itself in your success rates. As an organisation we have a passion for patient care and ensuring that the journey for each individual is as positive as possible, and it is evident that Clinica Tambre share that passion. I have no qualms at all in referring patients, knowing that they will be well taken care of.

For further information on Barbara Scott please visit:

www.serennaturalfertility.co.uk

www.reproductivereflexologists.org

FACEBOOK: Seren – Reproductive Reflexology

TWITTER: @Barbara_E_Scott

‘Reflexology For Fertility’ published by Watkins Books 2016

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What is ReproflexologyTM?

Karen Taylor — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 15:00:30 +0000

What is ReproflexologyTM?

By Barbara Scott

ReproflexologyTM (Reproductive Reflexology) is the study of and treatment of male and female reproductive conditions and fertility issues using reflexology.

One in six couples in the UK are now experiencing difficulties in conceiving, in addition to this, male fertility has declined by 50% in the last 25 years. This pattern appears to be replicated not only across Europe, but the rest of the world and even in developing countries, not normally associated with fertility issues, couples are finding that they are having difficulties getting pregnant.

There are, of course, many complex factors involved in the casual factors for both male and female fertility. Male fertility is still marginalised by fertility clinics who very much focus on the female, when what we know is that fertility issues are attributable proportionately, a third male, a third female and a third joint. This means that males are involved in approximately 50% of all cases of infertility and repeated miscarriage, and yet very little is done to explore these issues further. Many couples are now being offered IVF/ICSI with very little in the way of tests that might help them to understand what these might be, and allow them to conceive naturally. Interestingly, IVF/ICSI success rates have not increased since the birth of the first IVF baby, Louise Brown over thirty years ago and remain at a staggeringly low 25%. Many couples believe that IVF/ICSI is the panacea for their fertility difficulties and that they will end up with a baby at the end of their treatment. However, if you look at the live birth rates for most fertility clinics you will find that they are incredibly low and many quote their statistics for 25-29 year olds in their advertising, as this is likely to be the most fertile group with the highest success rates.

ReproflexologyTM and Success Rates

ReproflexologyTM provides a structured and prescriptive approach to fertility issues using medical testing to support evidence of its outcomes alongside the majority of couples having a baby at the end of their treatment. In a recent study carried out by the Association of Reproductive Reflexologists, 68% of clients conceived whilst having reflexology, using these prescriptive treatment protocols. The study looked at 180 clients, of whom 122 conceived whilst receiving reflexology, 100 conceived naturally, and a further 22 were being supported during IVF.

Client Information

When treating couples it is important to ensure that we see both of them for initial consultation as without this, one will only have half of the information needed to make an informed basis for treatment. Some of the most important things to consider are their age, weight and height, what forms of contraception they have used, previous gynaecological history, any current or previous urinary tract or sexually transmitted infections. We know that all of these can have an effect upon fertility and the smallest anomaly can be the key to a solution.

Additionally, many prescribed medications, can have a detrimental affect upon fertility and pregnancy, so making a note of these and researching any effects upon fertility for both men and women will be an important part of building a picture of what might be causing a problem. We cannot suggest that our clients stop taking any medication, however, we can suggest that they see their medical practitioners for further advice.

Detailed information on any forms of assisted conception they have undertaken with their current or previous partner, which for IVF should include the number of cycles undertaken, and results for each cycle i.e. number of eggs harvested, number fertilised, grades of the embryos, how many were replaced and how many were frozen. This allows practitioners to identify patterns within treatment and also monitor the effects of reproductive reflexology during treatment.

Alcohol, smoking and drugs all have an affect on fertility for both men and women and there is much research to support this.

The current guidelines issued by The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists states no alcohol for women in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, as they believe there is no safe limit for alcohol consumption at this time. As it is difficult to predict when conception will take place, it makes sense to recommend abstinence whilst trying to conceive.

For men, it is suggested that 4 units (not glasses!) of good quality (preferably organic) red wine a week would be acceptable, but not beer or spirits as both can be responsible for elevated levels of free radicals which can cause damage to sperm DNA, morphology and motility.

Both smoking and drugs should be avoided due to their high levels of toxicity and in the case of drugs, the addition of unknown toxic substances. If clients are struggling with this then it would make sense to refer them on for additional support for addictions.

Medical Testing

Current NICE guidelines for couples trying to conceive, suggest that if they have been trying to conceive for over 12 months (6 months if they are over 35) they can ask their GP for a basic semen analysis for the male and a basic hormone profile for the female. This provides invaluable information for practitioners not only in terms of what might be affecting a client’s fertility, but as a measure of the efficacy of reproductive reflexology.

A basic semen analysis will look at volume of seminal fluid, count in millions per ml of sperm, motility (how well they are moving) and morphology (formation). This provides us with some idea of male fertility and can also be repeated once they have been treated for 8 -12 weeks so assess their progress.

For women the main hormones for testing would be FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinising Hormone), Oestradiol (Oestrogen), Prolactin and Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, T3 and T4). These tests should all be taken on days 1-3 of the menstrual cycle for the most accurate results (other than the Thyroid Function tests, which can be taken at any time) and provide information on ovarian reserve and functionality of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone should also be tested at 7 days post-ovulation to provide evidence of ovulation taking place and the levels of progesterone being produced to support implantation and pregnancy.

Basal Body Temperature Charting

Charting the menstrual cycle by taking the Basal Body Temperature at the same time each day is an excellent way of looking at the cycle in detail and also monitoring for improvements whilst using reflexology, please see the female case study included with this article.

For accuracy, the temperature needs to be taken orally (under the tongue) at the same time each day on waking, and before getting out of bed, eating drinking or speaking. This provides the BBT at its lowest and most accurately measurable level, and means that a chart can be plotted to show the temperatures during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. It should show a lower temperature during the follicular phase, a dip at ovulation and temperatures at a higher level post-ovulation (when progesterone is being produced).

This means that we can accurately measure when ovulation is taking place, whether the right cervical mucous is being produced at the right time and whether the temperature (and therefore progesterone) is remaining high enough for long enough in the luteal phase of the cycle. It also means that if there are issues with ovulation or progesterone we use the ReproflexologyTM protocols to remedy these issues, then we can monitor their progress using the charts provided by clients. It is an invaluable tool.

Considerations When Working with Reproductive Couples

How do you feel about working with couples discussing, what at times, will be intimate details of the their private lives.
Keep safe – if working with a member of the opposite sex make sure that you are not on your own and there is someone else in the building, certainly until you feel have built a mutually respective working relationship with them.
Be forensic in your approach to gathering information, sometimes it is the smallest thing that can make all the difference.
Ensure that your clients feel safe and respected at all times. And ensure confidentiality both during their treatment sessions and with any medical notes.
If your clients have been told to stop treatment or are asked not to have treatment by their fertility clinic you must abide by this. Your insurance will be invalidated if you don’t.
When working with clients using assisted conception, make sure that you have a copy of their drug and treatment protocol. You will need to know what drugs they are taking, at what dosage and when they are taking them.
When working alongside assisted conception you are using reflexology to promote the efficacy of the drugs that being taken.
Always consider the emotional, physical, mental and practical affects of treatment upon your clients.

Female Case Study

Consultation

Nia had been trying to conceive for 18mths without success and had been diagnosed with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome and had a very irregular menstrual cycle, with no clear pattern of ovulation, and progesterone deficiency. She had been referred for treatment to her local fertility clinic and was awaiting an appointment.

Treatment

We asked her to begin basal body temperature charting immediately and began treating her on a weekly basis. The weekly protocols aim to support each stage of the menstrual cycle, working during the bleed, the follicular and luteal phases to ensure that each stage was functioning as it should.

Using temp charting to monitor progress we could see that ovulation occurred more regularly, the luteal phase lengthened and progesterone levels rose.

Eight months later she was pregnant and after a straightforward and healthy pregnancy, gave birth to a little girl.

Relevant Reflex Points

Hypothalamus, Pituitary, Thyroid, Ovaries, Uterus, Fallopian Tubes, Pelvic Lymph Nodes. These points are stimulated, balanced or manipulated according to whether a client is in the follicular or luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. Or sedated during the bleed.

Male Case Study

Consultation

Peter presented with a highly abnormal Semen Analysis result and elevated levels of Sperm DNA fragmentation. He and his wife had been trying to conceive for over 2 years and had a history of repeated miscarriage related to the elevated Sperm DNA fragmentation. He was referred for further testing to an Andrologist to ensure that we had current results, these confirmed his history.

Treatment and Reflex Points

Treatment was weekly for 12 weeks using a protocol that focused on the following reflex points:

Hypothalamus, Pituitary, Testes, Prostate, Vas deferens, Pelvic Lymph Nodes. And additionally reflex points to reduce stress levels.

These points are stimulated to encourage the production of greater quantities of sperm. Some of the reflex points are worked in combination to improve hormone communication between the relevant organs.

Result

Repeat Semen Analysis showed improved numbers of sperm, increased sperm morphology and motility. The levels of Sperm DNA fragmentation had improved.

Six months later this couple fell pregnant and delivered a healthy baby boy.

References:

Enzer, S, The Maternity Reflexology Manual, self-published, 2004

Barnes, B/Bradley S G, Planning for a Healthy Baby, Ebury Press, 1990

Barnes, B, Male Infertility – Fighting Back, Foresight, 2003

Fisch MD, H, The Male Biological Clock, Free Press, 2005

Lewis PhD, R, The Infertility Cure, Little Brown, 2005

Guillebaud, J, Your Questions Answered – Contraception, Churchill

Livingstone, 2005

Domar, A D PhD, Conquering Infertility, Viking, 2002

West, Z, Guide to Getting Pregnant, Harper Thorsons, 2005

Glenville PhD, M, The Nutritional Health Handbook for Women, Piatkus, 2001

Greer Prof, I, Fertility and Conception, Collins, 2007 http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0378427484900900 www.organicconsumers.org/scientific/growth-hormones-fed-beef-cattle- damage-human-health http://www.whattoexpect.com/preconception/fertilityfoods.aspx
Jensen TK1, Swan SH, Skakkebaek NE, Rasmussen S, Jørgensen N,

Caffeine intake and semen quality in a population of 2,554 young Danish men, Am J Epidemiol. 2010 Apr 15;171(8):883-91. doi: 10.1093/aje/ kwq007. Epub 2010 Mar 25

http://www.nhs.uk/news/2014/10October/Pages/Moderate-regular- drinking-may-still-damage-sperm.aspx http://www.nhs.uk/news/2011/12December/Pages/wifi-laptop-signals- sperm-fertility-damage.aspx

http://www.sciencemediacentre.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Sharpe12-EMBO-Reports.pdf

http://andrologysociety.org/getattachment/2d3132da-b376-43e0-80e5-1ba52c158936/chapter-26.aspx

For further information on Barbara Scott please visit:

www.serennaturalfertility.co.uk

www.reproductivereflexologists.org

FACEBOOK: Seren – Reproductive Reflexology

TWITTER: @Barbara_E_Scott

‘Reflexology For Fertility’ published by Watkins Books 2016

The post What is ReproflexologyTM? appeared first on Reproductive Reflexologists.

Improving Male Fertility and with Reflexology

Karen Taylor — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 13:37:06 +0000

How reflexology can help male fertility?

By Barbara Scott

The greater majority of men have little idea of how their reproductive system functions and even what the component parts may be. I was reading an article just today that in a survey carried out by the charity Prostate Cancer UK of 1,900 men, 17% did not know that they had a prostate, 54% did not know where it was and 92% (yes 92%!) had no idea of its functions and responsibilities.

I would also like to say that it is not just men who are ignorant of how their reproductive systems work, most women who come to see us as practitioners are equally badly informed. And this lack of information lies in the fact that we are not educating our young people well enough about their fertility and reproductive systems.

So, to return to the issue of what is the prostate. It plays a key role in male reproductive health and also that of the urinary tract. It is a small gland approximately the size of a walnut, and works like a valve either allowing urine or seminal fluid to pass through the urethra. It is also responsible for producing 90% of the seminal fluid that supports and nourishes sperm.

It is one of the key issues when addressing issues with male fertility, as an enlarged or diseased prostate will cause damage to sperm.

Making sure that your sperm are well-formed, swimming well and that there are plenty of them will make it easier for you to conceive naturally.

Reflexology is an excellent form of treatment for supporting not only the prostate, but the other component parts of the male reproductive system, including the testes, epididymis and vas deferens. And can be used to improve the quality and quantity of sperm produced.

There is also much that can be done by making a few alterations to diet and lifestyle that will improve sperm production, motility (ability to swim) and morphology (formation). Research has shown that the following recommendations can make a real difference in improving male fertility and we certainly encourage our male clients to try and incorporate them.

Reduce alcohol to no more than 4 units a week, not beer, preferably red wine.
Eliminate Caffeine. Remember this is in tea, coffee, chocolate, fizzy drinks.
Increase vegetable and fruit intake to 5 portions a day, preferably organic.
Reduce intake of red meat, increase intake of fish and poultry, again organic where possible.
Wear loose fitting trousers and underpants to keep the testicles cool. They should be 2 degrees cooler than body temperature. Sperm don’t like heat, it can cause morphology issues.
No intensive muscle building exercise, as testosterone can be diverted to muscle building rather than sperm production, and you could end up with a lowered count.
Absolutely no smoking or drug taking! I am afraid both of these have a very damaging effect upon sperm.

Remember….

This is not forever, it is just whilst you are trying to conceive.

All that you ingest or are exposed to can effect not only the sperm production and formation, but also the DNA. Poor sperm DNA can lead to conception difficulties and repeated miscarriage.

For further information on Barbara Scott please visit:

www.serennaturalfertility.co.uk

www.reproductivereflexologists.org

FACEBOOK: Seren – Reproductive Reflexology

TWITTER: @Barbara_E_Scott

‘Reflexology For Fertility’ published by Watkins Books 2016

The post Improving Male Fertility and with Reflexology appeared first on Reproductive Reflexologists.