Reflexology increases sensitivity o

Reflexology increases sensitivity of the aorticbaroreceptors resulting in greater diuresis, thusreducing circulating blood volume and potential hypertension.28 Women with gestational hypertension may benefit from these anti-hypertensive
effects, although it may be contraindicated in mothers with fulminating pre-eclampsia due to the possibility of renal damage from stimulating excessive micturition. Acupuncture also lowers blood pressure, notably systolic pressure, in those with pre-existing hypertension, but does not appear to have a significant effect in normotensive people.29 CAM therapies which aid relaxation and promote sleep, such as acupuncture, acupressure, hypnotherapy,massage, reflexology or aromatherapy,increase endorphin release, thus adding to the mother’s ability to cope with painful stimuli. The analgesic effect of therapeutic touch is attributed to beta-endorphin (serotonin) release30 and the gate control mechanism31 but may also be due to local circulatory improvement, skeletal muscle relaxation via stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system and reduction in ischaemia produced by changes in cerebral blood flow.32 Antenatal conditions such as headache, backache or labour pain often respond well to touch therapies